I Had 5 Hair Transplants and 5 Scalp Reductions…

Hi, (classification: Norwood 6)

I need some advice on scalp reductions please!!!

I started to lose my hair at the age of 17-18 and it had a profound impact on me. I went to a dermatologist who recommended a very good hair transplant doctor and at the age of 19, I had my first hair transplant which really helped my confidence. As the years progressed, I started to lose hair in the crown area and it was suggested to have a scalp reduction.

Well, i’m 33 years old and i’ve had 5 transplants and 5 scalp reductions. Along with some cover up, my hair looks pretty good! But i’m still losing hair in the crown area! My question is: Do scalp reductions really work? What about stretch back? I still wonder back to the days when I was 17, and wonder if I had just shaved my head bald!!

Your thoughts and opinions are appreciated, thanks.

Scalp reductions do not work well and have caused misery for many patients, including myself (having had three of them and ended up more bald in the crown then before I started). I went on a campaign to discredit that surgery and I believe that my opinion is now shared by most competent doctors. That is why scalp reductions are not the standard of care for balding men today.

You probably should not have had a hair transplant in your late teen years — and as you can see now, you’re probably out of donor hair and options. As you wonder back to your days, I agree with you. Sometimes bald is beautiful!