If you’ve been experiencing excessive hair loss, you may have come to the conclusion that a hair transplant is the best option for treatment. Congratulations! You’re on your way to a thicker, fuller head of hair. However, the journey has just begun. Before you do anything else, the first thing you’ll need to accomplish is finding a hair transplant doctor who’s right for you.
Finding a doctor will require you to do some research and perform your due diligence. You’ll want to select a doctor who will listen to your needs intently and give you an overview of all possible treatment avenues. As you research your options, here are some crucial things you should look for in a hair transplant doctor:
1. Breadth and depth of experience.
Don’t be shy to ask your doctor questions about their experience and certifications. You’ll want to work with a doctor who has a proven track record of multiple successful hair transplants. It’s also best practice to inquire about the doctor’s specialty. Ideally, the doctor you choose is a board-certified hair restoration surgeon. Seek out a doctor who is part of either the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS) and/or the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS).
2. Someone who can conduct both FUT and FUE procedures.
When beginning your hair transplant journey, you’ll want to understand all your options. That’s why it’s important to seek out a doctor who can give you an unbiased, firsthand opinion about which procedure is best for your individual case.
There are two kinds of surgical hair transplants you can undergo: a Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT), which involves harvesting donor hair through a strip of donor tissue, or a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), which transplants individual follicular units. A doctor who specializes in only either FUTs or FUEs will likely nudge you in the direction of that specific procedure. A doctor who can conduct both will have a better understanding of which option is right for you.
3. A doctor who listens to you, addresses your concerns, and answers your questions in a way that is easy to understand.
This is crucial for people seeking a first-time hair transplant. Make sure your doctor takes the time to listen to your questions and respond thoughtfully. A doctor who arms you with the knowledge you need to make a decision has your best interests in mind. Steer clear of doctors who rush you through decisions or seem too busy to answer your questions. If you have a gut feeling that your doctor isn’t listening, seek treatment elsewhere.
4. Someone who does a thorough examination and doesn’t just look at your hair and says you’re a candidate.
For some hair loss patients, hair restoration surgery won’t be the best option. For instance, women aren’t usually great candidates for surgery because of the diffuse pattern of thinning and the unstable donor area generally seen in female pattern hair loss. A great doctor will conduct a thorough exam and give you an honest recommendation, even if that includes no surgical treatment at all.
5. Great before and after photos.
As they say, seeing is believing. Ask your surgeon for multiple sets of before and after photos to get an idea of what their finished products look like. Make sure the photos are well-lit and that the patient is positioned consistently throughout.
6. A doctor focused on a long-term plan.
Hair restoration surgery isn’t just a one-and-done treatment. A great hair transplant doctor will ensure you understand how your hair restoration procedure will look like several years down the line. They’ll also equip you with a plan to work around any changes that will occur as you lose more hair naturally with age.
7. A clinic with a welcoming, friendly staff.
Finally, when choosing a hair transplant doctor, take note of the clinic staff’s demeanor. Is the office warm, friendly, and welcoming? Or does it seem like nobody really wants to be there? The staff’s attitude can alert a patient as to what kind of environment is fostered at the clinic and by the doctor. Be sure you feel well and at ease. Otherwise, it could be a sign that something is amiss.
At Look Natural Hair Restoration, we’re proud to offer our clients the highest standard of care. As a board-certified hair restoration surgeon, Dr. Ross ensures each patient receives a quality consultation and treatment tailored to each individual. Looking to start your hair restoration journey? Get in touch with us today and we’ll be happy to welcome you into our office for a consultation.
