When it comes to diagnosing hair loss, significant differences can be noted between genders. Though the majority of hair loss is due to androgenic alopecia, the way the androgen hormone affects hair follicles in men and women is distinctly unique. And while hair loss can generally be attributed to this, hormonal abnormalities, side effects of medications, and many diseases can mimic the problem of thinning hair for many women. This is why diagnosis prior to surgery is so crucial.
It is not uncommon to notice signs of hair loss developing in men in their 20s, when the hair may begin to thin at the temples or crown. The speed at which hair thins is different for each man, though the usual timeframe is between 15 and 25 years before the end result is reached, provided that no anticipatory steps are taken.
For women, no noticeable changes may occur until their 50s or 60s, at which point they may see an overall loss of fullness and body. Hair loss will occur down the middle of the scalp or at the hairline near the temples and above the ears, if at all. In direct contrast to men’s hair loss, it is less common for women to experience actual baldness. Typically, women will see moderate diffuse thinning throughout.
Though in some cases it is possible for women to develop hair loss typical to male pattern baldness or vice versa, this is quite rare.
Determining Candidacy
Doctors agree that not only is it far easier to predict and diagnose hair loss in men than in women, but that results are demonstrably superior when using accurate diagnoses to determine candidacy for people looking to undergo hair transplant surgery in Toronto. When verifying an appropriate candidate, the doctor will assess the donor area, ensuring its stability so that any follicles harvested from the area are ideal for migration.
Undergoing Surgery
Regardless of gender, the technical aspects of follicle harvesting are similar. It is important, however, for women seeking a hair transplant in Toronto to find a surgeon skilled in this type of surgery, as the doctor must demonstrate extreme care while extracting the hair because women’s scalps are notably tighter and thinner than men’s. Additionally, the placement of hair requires and artful approach. Women’s hair tends to fall in complex patterns with directional changes, exhibiting unique growth patterns around the hairline. Due to the nature of women’s hair loss, the general goal for a woman’s hair transplant is to build up enough density in target areas that by utilizing styling techniques, any thinning areas can be camouflaged.
After Care Procedures
Following surgery, the aftercare routines for men and women also display similarities. As hair growth is cyclical, it should be noted that a risk for both sexes is that the trauma of transplantation can result in short-term shock to the follicles and cause some fall-out.
In terms of scarring, some forms of hair transplants (e.g. FUT) result in scars. The visibility of such scars can be an issue for men, and they are advised to refrain from buzzing their hair quite short. For women, this is rarely an issue.
If you are looking for an experienced doctor at a hair transplant clinic in Toronto, we invite you to contact us today 647-351-0061. Dr. Torgerson and our friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have in regards to candidacy and the procedure.
