NeoGraft Hair Restoration

 

We are pleased and excited to bring to our patients automated FUE hair transplantation, as well as fully equipped and trained medical staff and surgical office dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss in men and women.

Essence Skin Clinic uses the state-of-the-art automated Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) device, called NeoGraft™. NeoGraft was originally developed in France and has been used in Europe and Asia for the last decade. In 2008, it was officially cleared in the United States by the FDA for patient surgical use.

After ten (10) years of research and development, NeoGraft™ is the first new surgical patented hair transplantation device that advances and refines the procedure of hair transplantation in the twenty-first century. To date, over 8,000 hair restoration procedures have been done with NeoGraft™ with excellent natural looking results. FUE with NeoGraft is so safe and straightforward, it is done under a local anesthetic in our surgical suite.

It is a well recognized fact that FUE hair restoration is the most desired and natural method of transplanting hair. FUE does not require an excision of a large piece of scalp, it is less invasive, and it leaves no scar.

Automated FUE with NeoGraft™ gives patient’s excellent hair density, naturally reproducible results, and aesthetically appealing hairline for many patients in just one surgical procedure. Most importantly, FUE surgery using NeoGraft™ utilizes your own natural hair follicles from the back of your scalp without any postoperative scaring that occurs with the traditional strip surgical method.

 

Hair Loss in Men

Hair loss can be a very emotional difficult event because hair has an important psychological importance in our society. Most men experience some degree of hair loss in their lifetime which can start as early in some men in their early twenties. Androgenetic Alopecia (AA) or common male pattern baldness (MPB) accounts for more than 95% of hair loss in men. By the age of thirty-five (35) over 60% of American men will experience some degree of appreciable hair loss, and by the age of fifty (50) approximately 85% of men have significantly thinning hair.

The psychological effects of male hair loss vary with some men paying minimal attention to their thinning hair, while others are affected significantly. It is important that men who are having unusual difficulty dealing with their hair loss receive psychological support or counseling as well as medical treatment.

Fortunately, there are a number of excellent medical treatments that can prevent or postpone male hair loss in its early stages. For more advance MPB, surgical hair restoration can return to men a completely natural look. Over the past 10 years, non surgical options that include oral medications have decreased hair loss in men. In the future, we look forward for further progress towards the goal of cloning ones own hair, a technology in which significant progress has been made, but that is not yet available.

Hair Loss and Its Causes

Hair follicles perpetually goes through three different stages. The normal cycle of hair growth lasts for 2 to 6 years. This stage is called the Anagen stage. During this stage hair will grow approximately one (1) centimeter (less than half an inch) per month. About 90 percent of the hair on your scalp is growing at any one time. About 10 percent of the hair on your scalp is in the involution phase, also called the Catagen phase which lasts about 2 weeks. The hair then enters the Telogen or resting phase for 2 to 3 months. At the end of the resting phase hair follicles falls out and a new hair starts.

The most important structure of a hair follicle is the dermal papilla, which is responsible for hair growth. The cell of this dermal papilla divides and differentiates to form a new hair follicle. As this dermal papilla lies in direct contact with blood capillaries of the skin, it is responsible for deriving nutrients for hair follicle growth. This dermal papilla has many receptors for androgens; where men have more androgenic receptors here than women.

What is common baldness?

The term "common baldness" usually means male balding pattern baldness (MBP), or permanent-pattern baldness. MPBP is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Men who have this type of hair loss typically also have an inherited or genetic trait as a cause of MBP. Men may who start losing their hair at an early age tend to develop more extensive baldness. In MBP, hair loss typically results in a receding hair line and baldness on the top of the head.

Testosterone plays an important role in hair loss. When combined with another enzyme in the hair follicle, 5 alpha reductase, testosterone converts to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone is a natural metabolite of the human body and is very potent androgen belonging to the class of compounds called androgenic hormones. The hair follicle when exposed to long periods of DHT eventually miniaturizes and dies.

 

 

 

Hair Loss In Women

Most people think hair loss is a medical problem only impacting men. The truth is women make up about forty (40) percent of hair loss patients. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it's a increasingly recognizable aesthetic concern, affecting thirty (30) million women in the United States. More importantly, female pattern hair loss needs to be recognized as a chronic and progressive condition. All treatments need to be continued to maintain the effect.

For many women their hair is a defining physical attribute that defines character and personality. Hair loss affects one’s self image and emotional well-being. It is a very real and serious aesthetic concern for many women, and in 2008 over 15 percent of patients having hair restoration surgical procedures were women.

But what exactly causes a woman to lose her hair? To understand that, it's important to know a basic understanding about hair growth.

Androgens Impact of the Hair Cycle

Hair grows at one-half inch per month and the growth phase lasts two to six years. With yet-to-be discovered physiologic signals, the hair goes into a resting phase for a period of time, then the hair follicle falls out and a new follicle starts the process all over again.

In some patients with a genetic predisposition to hair loss, a group of hormones called androgens interferes with the growth cycle of the hair. These androgen hormones-testosterone, Androsteinedione, and Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)- are dominant hormones in men, but are present in women to a lesser degree. In many women, hair loss is due to the action of androgens on the hair follicles.

In women who are genetically susceptible, when the testosterone comes in contact with enzymes residing in the hair cell, it is converted into the more potent androgen DHT, which then binds with receptors deep within the hair follicle. Over time, DHT in the hair follicle alters the natural resting and growth phases of the hair. Some of the hair follicles eventually die, while others stop continuing healthy hair growth.

The term 'androgenic alopecia' in women is often referred to “female pattern hair loss.” It is a broader term that encompasses many possible causes of hair loss in women. Androgenic alopecia is caused by factors related to the actions of hormones, e.g., ovarian cysts, use of high androgen index birth control pills, pregnancy, and menopause. Just like in men, DHT and heredity plays a major factor in this disease.

In men, the pattern of hair loss is distinct whereas, women have a diffuse thinning of their hair. Female pattern balding affects circumferentially the whole top of the head. Men rarely have diffuse thinning and compared to the hair loss pattern of men, it is entirely different because men tend to lose it on the temple, the crown, and the bald spot in the back.

The science of female balding remains misunderstood and we don’t understand all the genetic codes and other factors that plays a role in hair loss in women. There are most likely other types of enzymes, as well as hormone receptors and blockers that have yet to be discovered.

Causes of Hair Loss

Medical Diseases

Other medical conditions such thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, anemia, chronic illness, or the use of certain medications can cause hair loss in women. Certain types of autoimmune disorders result in a slightly different and often less dramatic hair loss problem known as alopecia areata -- an inflammatory condition that causes hair to come out in clumps or patches.

Accelerated hair loss and thinning is common in women during menopause and perimenopuase secondary to changing hormone levels. When estrogen and testosterone levels change during this time period, the imbalance causes hair thinning. Hair loss can be from nutritional deficiency of vitamins A and D, iron and other essential nutrients.

Telogen Effluvium

Another type of hair loss in women is called Telogen Effluvium. This is described as a temporary hair loss that follows childbirth, crash dieting, surgery, or a traumatic emotional event. Telogen Effluvium can begin about six (6) weeks to three (3) months after a stressful or traumatic event. It is not uncommon for hair to come out in “large clumps”

Anagen Effluvium

Anagen Effluvium is another type of hair loss caused by factors impairing the metabolic activity of the hair follicle. This type of hair loss is associated with chemotherapy because the toxic effect of the chemotherapy that is designed to stop the cancer cells from growing and dividing. Unfortunately, chemotherapy is not selective and it negatively impacts all cells-healthy and cancerous- including hair follicles in the body.

Traction Alopecia

Traction Alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when the hair follicles are traumatized by hair being pulled tight by hairstyles. Braiding, cornrows, tight ponytails, and hair extensions often cause this type of alopecia.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About OC NeoGraft©

What Does NeoGraft™ do? The NeoGraft machine is a revolutionary automated hair transplant machine that assists the doctor in performing a hair transplant using the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) technique, the latest hair transplant technology to date. The FUE technique is less invasive than the traditional STRIP method used by most doctors today. With the FUE technique there is no cutting of the scalp as there is with the STRIP method. Since there is no cutting there is no suturing, no visible scarring, very little bleeding and almost immediate recovery time.

What Is An FUE Hair Transplant?

FUE is the most recently developed transplant procedure that does not involve any incisions like the STRIP method still used by most doctors today. The FUE method is the removal of individual hair follicles from the scalp, in their naturally occurring groupings of about 1-4 hairs. The follicles are then transplanted into the balding area. The FUE Transplant procedure was introduced in 2001. It is the least invasive procedure, with the fewest complications and the end result is an excellent, natural look.

Why FUE?

Performing hair transplantation using the FUE method without NeoGraft™ is a very time consuming and is therefore more costly. Most doctors feel patients will not want to pay for this procedure so they do not promote it. Also doctors need additional training to perform this procedure and many are reluctant to obtain further training.

Most offices are more comfortable with the STRIP method since it is quicker to perform. For these reasons, most doctors do not offer a complete transplant using the FUE method. Some doctors may offer to use the FUE method on small areas such as filling in a hairline where few follicles are needed. However, most doctors, once they learn about the benefits of the FUE method, understand that it is more beneficial for the patient, since it is a much less invasive procedure.

The NeoGraft™ machine brings down the cost of doing the FUE procedure because the procedure time is shortened and there is no need for the many technicians as there is when doing a manual FUE hair transplant. The reduced costs can be passed on to the patient, allowing more people to have the FUE procedure. Not all patients are suitable for the FUE procedure, but NeoGraft allows a larger proportion of patients to have the FUE procedure.

What Are The Advantages Of Using An Automated Device?

There are many advantages. Our device allows more individuals to be candidates for the FUE method of transplantation. Performing FUE by hand limits the number of people who can have this technique because of the time factor which raises the cost. Furthermore, some people have certain physical conditions such as deeply embedded follicles, thicker skin, or tougher skin and it is sometimes difficult to take out the grafts without damaging them. NeoGraft uses controlled pneumatic pressure (suction) to slide out the follicle smoothly, so there is not the pulling and twisting with tweezers which puts the follicle at risk for damage. These conditions often eliminate individuals from being good candidates for the FUE method. The follicles extracted by the contra-angled tool are of an excellent quality. Also, the transplant procedure is faster with the NeoGraft, the follicles can be re-implanted sooner which keeps them more robust, increasing the success of the grafting process. With the traditional manual method used for FUE hair transplants, the patient must rely more on the skilful hand of a technician or doctor. There is not the same consistency or quality control as with the NeoGraft.

Further advantages of the FUE procedure with the NeoGraft machine are less complications from surgery, mostly invisible scarring whereas with the SLIT method there is elongated scarring, reduced healing time, FUE is a non invasive surgery, unlike SLIT surgery which is invasive, and finally as stated, our device shortens the time of the FUE procedure, therefore reducing the cost.

What About STRIP(FUT) Excision ?

STRIP excision or FUT, is the traditional transplant procedure used by most doctors today where a strip of skin is removed from the donor site at the back of the patient’s head. One of the major drawbacks to this procedures is the incision is sutured together leaving a linear scar. The scar may enlarge over time to overcome the tension of the skin created by cutting a strip and suturing the scalp together. Patients experience pain with the STRIP surgery and medicine is prescribed for the pain.

What procedure to I have, FUE or STRIP?

With the FUE technique, only the individual hair follicle is removed. There is no dissection of skin or stitches. The small wound made when the follicle is extracted contracts as it heals. With the STRIP procedure there is an incision and a linear scar. With the NeoGraft™ more people qualify for the FUE method, which is less invasive, and has less possible complications. Your doctor will decide whether you are eligible for the FUE procedure.

Is a Hair Transplant Safe?

From a surgical standpoint, a hair transplant is very safe. It is a relatively minor surgical procedure. An FUE transplant is performed under local anesthetic, and does not require intravenous or intra-muscular sedation. With FUE the patient is awake during the procedure, and can watch T.V. or talk with the doctor.

Is FUE Hair Transplantation Painful?

Most people are surprised that there is virtually no pain during an FUE hair transplant procedure done under a local anesthetic. Some small discomfort may occur as a local anesthetic is injected into the scalp. Once the skin is properly anaesthetized, there is no pain. After the FUE surgery, patients will typically feel some minor discomfort. It is usually described as minimal. With the STRIP method, there is more pain, with the amount of pain depending on each patients individual pain threshold. Medicine can be prescribed to help with any discomfort or pain.

What Are The Possible Complications?

FUE Hair Transplant surgery is considered a minor procedure. There are rarely complications and your doctor easily treats any that may occur. With STRIP surgery more complications can occur, such as infections, excessive scarring, a feeling of tightness of the scalp, hair loss in the scar area, nerve pain, bleeding, as well as a chance of damage to the occipital or temporal blood vessels.

When Can I Go Back To Work?

It is often possible to go back to work within the next day or two after the FUE transplant. With the STRIP procedure, depending on the level of pain, more down time is usually required.

When Will My Newly Transplanted Hair Start To Grow?

Normally it takes between three to five months following surgery before the transplanted hair follicles begin to grow new hair.

What Is The Cost Of A Hair Transplantation?

Prices typically average around $4 to $12 per graft for the STRIP method and more for the FUE method when done manually. NeoGraft reduces the cost of an FUE transplant because NeoGraft reduces the time to do the FUE procedure.

Why Are The Costs Of The Transplant Reduced With Your Device?

The NeoGraft™ eliminates the need and cost for the many technicians necessary to help the doctor with the procedure. The machine also shortens the time needed to do the transplant, which reduces the cost as well. These savings can be passed on to the patient.

How Many Sessions Will Be Required?

It depends on how many grafts are to be transplanted. With NeoGraft™, more than double the grafts can be transplanted compared to a manual FUE. With NeoGraft the same number of grafts can be done as with the STRIP method in the same amount of time. The number of sessions can be discussed during the consultation with your surgeon.

How Many Grafts/Hairs Will I Need?

The amount of grafts you will need ultimately depends on your degree of hair loss and on how dense your donor hair is at the back.

Will It Really Look Natural?

Yes, the only people who know will be those you tell.

 

Hair Restoration For Her

Many women are not aware they are candidates for hair surgery or even that their hair loss requires a thorough disease specific medical evaluation. Our culture has accepted male hair transplantation but somehow the message has not reached enough women that their hair loss can be treated. This fact is confirmed by recent research conducted by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. In their recent studies they estimate more women are being treated for hair loss than in the past decade. In 2008, 15% of hair surgery patients were women up from 11% in 2004.

At Essence Skin Clinic we recognize that our female patients require a different approach for female hair and eyebrow transplantation. Compared to men, hair loss in women manifests in different patterns and is generally more diffuse and can occur at any age. In men there is a strong genetic pattern whereas in women other underlying conditions play a role.

Female pattern balding affects the whole top of the head. It has a more diffuse pattern whereas men lose hair on the temple, the crown, the bald spot in the back. Also, the hormone and enzyme receptor sites are on different areas of the scalp -- another reason doctors now believe the loss patterns are caused by different precipitating factor. There is evidence that many other types of enzymes, and hormone receptors and blockers may be at work in women.

 

When should I consider hair transplantation?

In male pattern baldness the sides and back are still covered with hair. Men who have this balding pattern usually have successful hair transplant surgery. The donor hair from the back of the scalp survives the procedure and continues to grow on the area it is transplanted on the scalp.

DHT is what's responsible for the balding pattern on the top of men's heads. DHT, however, does not have any adverse effect on the hair follicle on the sides and back of the head. Typically, these areas of the head have healthy hair follicles, and the hair in these areas is excellent for use in hair transplant surgery. Referred to as stable sites, the hair follicles in these areas don't shrink or affected by DHT.

Women, on the other hand, typically don't have these stable sites wherein balding-resistant hair follicles can be found. Unlike men, women are likely to go bald not just on the top of their head but also on the sides, back and front. All areas of a woman's head are affected by DHT.

This makes women not good candidates for hair transplant surgery. Since the hair follicles in basically all areas of a woman's head are affected by DHT, any attempt to move them to the balding areas of the head is futile; the transplanted hair is simply going to fall out. Since the hair follicle is already damaged by the DHT in the first place, transplanting them to the balding area on the head is not going to solve the problem of baldness.

Note also that unlike men, women typically don't have to deal with receding hairlines. Instead, baldness in women occurs in a more diffuse manner, with uniformly thinning all over the head. In the case of female pattern baldness, the problem is more of how much hair is left on the head than where the baldness is occurring.

That said, a small percentage of women (approximately 5%) with baldness problems that can benefit from hair transplant surgery. These women tend to have areas (donor sites) in their head that have healthy hair follicles.

Who Is a Candidate For Hair or Eye Brow Restoration?

• Some women with thinning scalp hair and virtually all women with thinning eyebrows
• A person who has lost some but not all hair as a result of burns or other scalp injuries.
• Women who want to restructure their hairline.
• Women who have suffered hair loss due to mechanical or traction alopecia (non-hormonal).
• Women who have a distinct pattern of baldness, similar to that of male pattern baldness-hairline recession, vertex thinning (on the crown or top of the scalp), and a donor area that is not affected by Androgenetic Alopecia.
• Women who suffer hair loss due to trauma, including burn victims, scarring from accidents, and chemical burns.
• Women who have had previous cosmetic or plastic surgery and are concerned about hair loss around the incision sites.
• Women diagnosed with traction alopecia or alopecia marginalis.
• Women who want to thicken or restore eyebrows.
• Women who experienced hair loss after face lifts or other cosmetic procedures.

Who Is Not a Candidate for Hair Replacement?

• Women with a diffuse, or wide-spread, pattern of hair loss.
• Those who do not have sufficient "donor" sites (hair-bearing portions of the head from which hair-bearing skin is taken)
• Women who form keloid scars or thick fibrous skin tissue that can result from trauma, burns, or radiation injury