Hair restoration is the general term for the various methods of restoring hair to bald areas. It may be used to restore the hairline or other portions of hair in a man or woman who has experienced hair loss due to heredity, injury (e.g., burns) or disease (e.g., alopecia areata).

Patients with mild-to-moderate pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) are often good candidates for hair restoration using medications such as minoxidil or finasteride. Individuals with more extensive hair loss generally benefit from surgical hair restoration.

The most commonly utilized surgical hair restoration technique is hair transplantation. During this outpatient procedure, healthy follicles (tiny, tubular structures in the skin through which hair grows) from a “donor site” are transplanted to the affected area. However, other surgical procedures, such as scalp reduction, may provide a similar benefit for some patients.

To determine the most appropriate hair restoration method, a physician will evaluate the patient’s balding patterns and review their family history of hair loss. Lifestyle issues and patient expectations of hair restoration will also influence the type of treatment chosen. When performed correctly, successful hair restoration provides patients with hair that appears natural to both themselves and others.

Hair replacement surgery is typically safe when performed by a qualified physician. However, side effects are possible (e.g., infection, scarring) as physical reaction and healing abilities may vary among individuals. Furthermore, hair restoration surgery does not work for everyone and may be expensive.