Donor Strip Harvesting Candidates
Hair transplantation methods are an excellent way to offer our patients a natural-looking solution to thinning hair or baldness. At our Chicago, IL practice, donor strip harvesting is one of the most popular methods used in hair transplant surgery. Here, we discuss donor strip harvesting candidates, and how our doctors at the Chicago Hair Institute can help you achieve the appearance you desire.
Donor Strip Harvesting: A Brief Review
When it comes to hair transplantation, there are two primary methods: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and strip harvesting. In order for growth to be successful, the entire follicular unit must be preserved. During an FUE procedure, small holes are created around the follicular units so that the surgeon can lift the units from the scalp.
In contrast, strip harvesting involves the removal of a horizontal strip of hair, which the medical team then meticulously dissects and prepares for transplantation. The donor site can then be stitched back together to minimize any scarring.
Candidates Are in Good Overall Health
Anytime patients undergo an elective or cosmetic procedure, it is important to be in good overall health. If you are considering donor strip harvesting, you should be free of serious health concerns, and you should practice excellent lifestyle habits.
Candidates Will Display Male or Female Pattern Baldness
Both male and female pattern baldness is caused by a hereditary predisposition to a hormone called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As the levels of DHT increase, hair follicles shrink and wither, leading to hair loss.
In men, the first indication of hair loss is a receding hairline, followed by thinning hair at the crown. In women, it begins with thinning hair along the middle portion of the scalp. This can progress to the temples and the areas above the ears.
Candidates Have Realistic Expectations of Results
Before beginning treatment, it is important to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. For this reason, our doctors spend time with each patient getting to know their concerns and goals. We will make sure you are familiar with the entire treatment process, from beginning to end, so that you can enjoy predictable, long-lasting results.
The Best Candidates Have Longer Hair
Because of the particular technique used in donor strip harvesting, patients with longer hair are actually better candidates for the procedure. This is because the scar can be concealed easily. Therefore, patients who wear their hair cropped or shaven must understand that, while they can still undergo the procedure, scarring may be visible.
Who Is Not a Candidate for Donor Strip Harvesting?
Patients with extremely loose or tight scalp skin may not be good candidates for donor strip harvesting. However, in these cases, FUE can be beneficial.
There are also several medical reasons why patients may not be eligible for treatment. For example, you may not qualify for donor strip harvesting if you:
- Smoke or drink excessively
- Have diabetes
- Suffer from heart or lung disease
- Have a bleeding disorder
- Are overweight
- Have high blood pressure
Of course, some risks are greater than others, and every patient is unique. The best way to determine your candidacy for donor strip harvesting is to schedule a visit with one of our doctors.
Learn More about Donor Strip Harvesting
If you want to learn more about donor strip harvesting or other hair transplantation methods, schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. You deserve a natural-looking and permanent hair loss solution. We can help design a personalized treatment plan that will effectively meet your needs. You can contact us online anytime or call our office at (630) 932-9690.