Coming to terms with the fact that you’re losing your hair is never easy but, when you do, the question is often… “What do I do next?”
For some people, the plan is to ignore it or just let it happen. But you do have options! And, if you decide to talk to a hair restoration specialist, that can lead to a bunch more questions.
What to Expect at a Hair Transplant Consultation?
Some preparation for a hair loss consultation begins long before your first appointment. Start by deciding which type of hair specialist you need to see.
If you believe that the issue is with your skin, you might want to start with a dermatologist first. But if the issue is typical mid-life hair loss, you can probably start directly with a hair restoration specialist.
Once you have made your appointment but before you arrive, it’s time to make some notes. When did your hair loss start? Is it breakage, lack of growth, or both? Have you had major life stressors or big life changes in the past year or so? Are you on a new medicine? Do other family members have hair loss?
Your hair loss specialist will ask you a lot of questions about your overall health and your scalp and hair care routines. Many people find it easier to have notes in hand when you arrive to see the doctor, so you don’t forget anything.
Should I Wash My hair Before a Hair Loss Consultation?
Washing your hair on the day of your appointment is usually fine – unless the doctor says otherwise. You should use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, not something that is rough on your scalp.
Your doctor will want to be able to see your scalp and hair as easily as possible. So, avoiding new dye and other hair products that day is a good idea. However, washing and conditioning your hair should have no impact.
In fact, clean hair may make it easier for your doctor to see what is going on with your scalp. They may also tug gently on your hair to determine if it breaks easily.
What Tests Should Be Done For Hair Loss?
Sometimes a physical examination and evaluation is sufficient to diagnose your hair loss. In other cases, some tests may be needed.
The exact tests will depend – in part – on the answers you gave and what the doctor finds. If you have a family history of hair loss, for example, then the doctor may not need to do as much blood work and pre-testing.
Some tests you might expect include blood work to test your hormone and vitamin levels – as well as to rule out any underlying health conditions. If your provider sees something unusual on your scalp, they may also perform a scalp biopsy to rule out skin conditions that can lead to hair loss.
Concerned About Your Hair Loss? Call the Experts at RHRLI
RHRLI was the first practice on Long Island to perform FUE procedures using the ARTAS® Hair Restoration System. We have transplanted more than one million hair follicles (and counting), so you know we have the experience to restore a natural looking hairline with permanent results. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.