Dr Lam's Hair Restoration Forum

Dr. Lam, I am a 32 year old African American women. My hair has gradually been thinning for the past 6 years. I've had blood work done and they could not find anything wrong. Two years ago I went to a dermatologist who specialized in hair loss. He did a scalp biopsy and said I have female pattern hair loss. Currently, I wear a hair weave which I do not want to do forever. Would I be good candidate for hair restoration?

Well, you have done everything right so far. I would like to know what "blood work" was done and the results. Was it just thyroid and anemia or did they look at all of your hormones including estrogen, DHEA, DHEAS, etc.? Beyond that I assume you have not been using aggressive straighteners and having abnormal breakage (I assume you read my African American hair section of the website)? I assume you do not overwash your hair (for AAs every day can be too much)? I assume you do not have abnormal shedding? I assume you do not suffer from traction alopecia (see section), that is tight braiding? When I deal with an African American woman there are more considerations that are important than when I deal with a Caucasian.

If the answer is no to the above, then you might be a good candidate for hair transplant. Also, I would consider using Rogaine to help minimize further loss, regrow some hair, and minimize postoperative temporary shock before your transplant. I would start now because by the time you see us in consultation (we are booked out), we could transplant sooner than later if you started Rogaine.

hope that helps.
best,
sml