MEDICAL
TREATMENT:
In
the consultation process we perform a medical history and examination
to determine the cause and appropriate treatment of hair loss.
Upon identification, patients with dermatologic, endocrine,
and immunologic causes of hair loss are referred for appropriate
treatment. In such cases medical treatment may resolve the problem
or at least stabilize it so that transplanting can be successfully
performed.
Men
who present with early or partial hair loss can usually benefit
from medical treatment with Minoxidil and or Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar)
to help control their progression of balding. Patients may also
experience some regrowth of hair. Those with extensive or mature
balding patterns are very unlikely to get any benefit from medical
treatment. If medical treatment is begun it must be continued
indefinitely or all effects will be lost.
-Minoxidil is available over the counter. Generics are as effective
as brand names. 5% concentrations of Minoxidil are more effective
in the first 6 months however, the less expensive 2% solutions
are just as effective after 6 months. Adding agents such as
Tretinoin does not have any proven scientific benefit. Higher
concentration levels produce more side effects.
-Finasteride must be prescribed by a medical doctor. It is essential,
for safe and effective use, that a baseline exam, and testing,
be performed by a medical hair loss professional. While the
studies indicate that the drug is generally safe and well tolerated,
side effects such as decreased libido and breast enlargement
can occur. (Propecia is not safe or effective for women). Finasteride
creams have no proven value. Men over the age of 35 need to
have a prostate exam and PSA test before starting Propecia.
-There are thousands of other products for which claims are
made as to helping hair loss. Unfortunately, no accepted scientific
evidence supports their benefit.
-We offer all our patients appropriate scientifically based
medical treatment and monitoring as part of an integrated approach
to hair loss. It is our policy to keep abreast of all scientific
developments and offer those of proven value and safety to each
patient.
