Hair transplant surgery can be a life changing procedure for many individuals who are affected by hair loss. Choosing a surgeon who is a hair specialist and facial plastic surgeon is essential to natural, long last results.
Trained in Facial Plastic Surgery
Both Dr. Thompson and Dr. Henstrom are double-board certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons and in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Because our surgeons primarily focus on the face, head, neck, and hair is what makes them stand out amongst general plastic surgeons. While our experienced surgeons work exclusively on the face (from the neck up), they also have a creative eye which helps with the aesthetic process that goes into both facial plastic and hair transplant surgery.
Additional Hair Restoration Training
Hair restoration training is completely separate from facial plastic surgery training. This training is usually done in the form of a fellowship. During a fellowship, surgeons are trained specifically to understand all aspects of hair loss. Hair restoration options can range from non-invasive treatments to more invasive surgical procedures (FUE and FUT hair transplant).
Successful Track Record
By going to a well experienced facial plastic surgeon who specializes in hair transplant with a successful track record is vital for results. A successful track record and years of experience means natural looking results and less complications. Before your individual consultation, we highly recommend that you do your due diligence by checking credentials, reading online reviews, and look at before and after pictures.
Hair Restoration Regulation
Unfortunately, the hair transplant field currently isn’t as regulated as it should be. It is possible for any physician with a medical degree to perform hair transplant surgery. Going to a surgeon who is inexperienced can compromise your safety and lead to unwanted results.
There are groups such as the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and the American Hair Loss Association (AHLA) that can be helpful for individuals who are seeking experienced, well qualified hair restoration experts. These resources can be used as a guide during your search, but we also recommend doing your own research as well.
Hair Restoration Options
Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT or strip method): This method of hair transplant surgery is a time-tested technique for permanent hair restoration. FUT involves removing a strip of hair from the back of the scalp, this area is most resistant to balding. The hair follicles are then harvested and implanted to the thinning or bald areas of the head.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): Follicular units are extracted by a punch method and transplanted to thinning and bald areas of the head. However, the real difference between the two is the way the grafts are obtained. FUE follicular units are extracted one by one without the need to excise a strip of hair from the back of the scalp.
To learn more about hair restoration, please contact our office in Draper or Layton, Utah at 801-776-2220.