Medecap

ALOPECIA

Definition of alopecia

Alopecia is the progressive loss of hair and can affect both men and women. Depending on the type of alopecia and its cause, the progression and treatment can vary considerably. Therefore, a medical diagnosis is essential.

Description of alopecia

Early signs

The first signs of hair loss become apparent in the shower, on the comb, or on the pillow. At the same time, it is important to bear in mind that alopecia can be caused by certain systemic diseases, stress, or nutritional deficiencies.

Primeros signos de alopecia

When it is inevitable
  • You should bear in mind that alopecia progresses continuously, involving a loss of approximately 5%.
  • In men, the recession of the frontal hairline resulting in the characteristic receding corners is followed by thinning across the top and back of the head, extending to the crown.
  • In women, alopecia manifests differently; there is hair loss and shortening, accompanied by lightening of the hair in the centroparietal region.
  • Alopecia progresses according to different patterns in men and women; in men, it is classified using the Norwood-Hamilton scale, while in women, the pattern is classified as Ludwig, depending on the degree of baldness.
  • The hair transitions from being strong and full of vitality to a new type of hair that is weaker and finer; this type of hair is known as "miniaturized hair."
  • When hair loss occurs during adolescence, it is classified as aggressive and progressive alopecia; the loss is more rapid, accompanied by follicular atrophy, thinning, and miniaturization.

La alopecia se estabiliza con medicación

Androgenetic alopecia
  • We experience this type of alopecia when our hair transitions from being vibrant, strong, and dense to becoming weak, microscopic, and fine.
  • The primary cause of androgenetic alopecia lies in a combination of hereditary hormonal factors, and it is more common in men than in women.
  • Testosterone is responsible for this type of alopecia in men, whereas in women, pro-androgens cause hair thinning and loss.

Alopecia androgenética

Hair growth

Human hair growth is a continuous process. Our hair goes through growth and resting phases.

There are three phases of growth: growth, regression, and rest. This process is not synchronized, so every day some hairs fall out while others are in the growth phase.

During the hair growth phase also known as the anagen phase the hair grows continuously. Under normal conditions, 75% of the hair is in this phase, which lasts between 2 and 6 years.

It should also be noted that the growth rate is very important, generally amounting to 1 centimeter per month.

Candidate for hair restoration surgery

Anyone wishing to undergo a hair transplant must bear in mind that, depending on certain characteristics such as age, gender, race, and hair type results can vary significantly from one patient to another.

  • Age: Very good results are achieved with patients up to 25 years of age, as the alopecia has only just begun and the outcomes are very positive.
  • Sex: In the case of men, the situation is much simpler than for women, as alopecia is more localized in men whereas in women it is harder to pinpoint so each case must be studied to determine the specific pattern present.
  • Ethnicity: The most positive results are found in ethnic groups where skin and hair color are very similar, such as among people of color. The best results are obtained when skin and hair color are similar.
  • Hair Stability: In this case, the best candidates are individuals with a clearly defined area of ​​alopecia; this allows specialists to identify the exact zone where the transplant will be performed.
  • Density: Hair density also plays a role; the higher the density of the donor area, the greater the number of units that can be extracted.
  • Hair Type: Thick, curly hair will yield better results, as fewer hair units will be needed to cover the affected area.
  • Laxity: Patients with low elasticity will achieve better results using the FUE technique.

Before undergoing a hair transplant, it is important for the patient to be fully informed about the procedure and to address any questions or concerns right from the initial consultation; this allows the hair specialist to take these factors into account and explain the potential results, benefits, and other details, given that a hair transplant is a lifelong procedure.

Front-line reconstruction

Hairline reconstruction is a specialty within hair restoration surgery that aims for a natural appearance, taking into account the patient's type of hair loss, age, and head shape and type.

The hairline must look natural; to ensure the reconstruction of this area is performed correctly, the hairs should be placed at an angle of up to 60 degrees, with the angle decreasing toward the sides. High-density placement is required in this area to create the impression of voluminous hair, and single-hair units must be used; as one moves away from this zone, the units consist of 2, 3, and 4 hairs.

Differences between FUE and DHI

The FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) technique involves extracting follicular units individually from the donor area, avoiding the linear scar associated with other traditional procedures.

For its part, DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is not an extraction method, but rather a way of implanting follicles using an Implanter Pen—an instrument that allows each follicular unit to be placed with great precision, controlling the angle, depth, and direction of the hair to achieve a natural result.

At Medecap, we combine extraction using the FUE technique with direct implantation using an Implanter Pen (DHI). This combination allows for maximum preservation of the follicles and a fully personalized hairline design, promoting high graft survival and a natural finish.

Post-surgery care

The success of a hair transplant depends not only on the procedure itself but also on correctly following post-operative instructions. During the first few days, it is important to avoid bumping the treated area, refrain from strenuous exercise, and follow the washing guidelines recommended by the medical team.

It is normal for small scabs, slight inflammation, or redness to appear symptoms that gradually disappear over the course of a few days. It is also common for the transplanted hair to fall out during the first few weeks; this process, known as «shock loss»" is part of the normal transplant cycle and does not affect the final result.

At Medecap, we provide personalized follow-up for each patient to ensure proper recovery and address any questions that may arise. By following medical recommendations, the hair will begin to grow gradually over the following months, delivering a natural and long-lasting result.

FIGHTING ALOPECIA

Alopecia can be combated with medication; therefore, it is important to make key decisions when the first symptoms appear.

Dr. Felicidad Espinosa Hair Transplant Surgeon
Alopecia

Es importante acudir a un dermatólogo o tricólogo para descartar o confirmar distintas patologías que tienen que ver con nuestra alopecia

Medecap Informa