Scalp reduction explained

Specialty:Plastic surgeon

Scalp reduction is a surgical procedure in which the hairless region of the scalp of a bald person is reduced. This procedure can reduce the area of the scalp in which hair transplantation is needed or even eliminate the need for hair transplantation.[1] [2]

History

Scalp reduction became very popular starting in the 1960s and, by the 1980s, was considered one of the most effective treatments for baldness.December 2023. It is not commonly performed today, with around 5,000 men per year receiving hair transplantation[3] instead of a full scalp reduction surgery.[4] Scalp reduction may reduce the size of bald spots and treat baldness. The surgery can typically take 2–3 hours with around 250 hair grafts, with cases of severe baldness involving around 1,000 hair grafts.

Candidates for surgery

After care

Risks

Associated cost

Pricing varies depending on the severity of the baldness. A straight-forward scalp reduction procedure can cost over $2,000,[6] with over $4,000 for a mild case, and up to $20,000 for a severe case of hair loss.

Health insurance

Health insurance will not pay for any type of hair loss surgery for cosmetic reasons, but they may elect to pay if the hair loss is caused by alopecia areata, accidents, or burns. Many offices offer payment plans to cover the surgery.

Surgeons

Scalp reduction surgery is performed by a physician trained in plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery or dermatology. The surgery is performed in a hospital, outpatient office setting.

Alternatives

Lotions that contain Rogaine or Finasteride may lead to hair growth in some patients. Rogaine grows fuzz on the crown of the head, and finasteride tends to grow actual hair on the crown of the head. Some recommend using lotions as a treatment for baldness before considering scalp reduction surgery.

Non-surgical hair restoration

Low-level laser therapy can act as a form of non-surgical hair restoration, using laser light to stimulate follicles on the scalp. This process not only makes hair grow but also thickens the hair, which can increase its appearance.

Hair loss

Hair loss is divided into the following:[7]

Non scarring

Scarring hair loss

Genetic causes

External links

Notes and References

  1. Bell . M. L. . February 1982 . Role of scalp reduction in the treatment of male pattern baldness . . 69 . 2 . 272–7 . 10.1097/00006534-198202000-00016. 7054796. 20731930 .
  2. Book: Unger . Martin G. . Toscani . Marco . 2016 . Scalp reduction . Scuderi . Nicolò . Toth . Bryant A. . International Textbook of Aesthetic Surgery . https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783662465981 . . 555–556 . 10.1007/978-3-662-46599-8 . 978-3-662-46598-1 . 7 December 2016 .
  3. Web site: Gale - Institution Finder.
  4. Web site: Scalp Reduction Surgery: Recovery, Risks, Causes & Remedies. 2018-08-09. Skin Examine. en-US. 2019-05-07.
  5. Web site: Gale - Product Login. galeapps.gale.com.
  6. Web site: Scalp Reduction Surgery For Hair Loss. Huxley. Dan. Consulting Room. en. 2019-05-14.
  7. Web site: Gale - Institution Finder.