Are you starting to see more scalp than hair when you look in the mirror? Are you tired of hiding your thinning hair with hats or hairstyles? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you may want to consider scalp reduction surgery.
So, what is scalp reduction surgery? It is a surgical procedure that involves removing sections of the scalp that are balding or have thinning hair. This can help to reduce the appearance of balding or thinning hair, and it can also help to make the remaining hair look thicker.
Scalp reduction surgery is usually done in conjunction with hair transplant surgery. The surgeon will remove sections of the scalp that are bald or have thinning hair, and then they will transplant hair follicles into these areas. This can help to give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair.
If you are considering scalp reduction or alopecia reduction surgery, then you should talk to a hair transplant surgeon. They will be able to assess your situation and determine if this type of surgery is right for you.
The scalp reduction surgery consists of steps such as
- Scalp massage
- Redirecting of the blood vessels
- Expansion of the scalp
- Extension of the scalp
Scalp massage: The first step is to massage the scalp to loosen the skin. This will make it easier for the surgeon to remove the sections of the scalp that are bald or have thinning hair. It also helps in reducing the chances of complications occurring.
Redirecting of the blood vessels: According to the location of the scalp that is planned to be treated, surgical requirements, and health conditions, the surgeon may administer a minor surgery four to six hours before the surgery. Anaesthesia is administered to the patient and the area around the planned surgery is shaved. The surgeon then makes incisions in the scalp and separates the skin from the underlying tissue. The blood vessels are then tied off or redirected. The surgeon then closes the incision to cover the wound. After this procedure, the patient will be asked to come for follow-up visits for four to six weeks. Thus, the surgeon can monitor the healing process.
Expansion of the scalp: In this step, the surgeon administers anaesthesia to the patient and makes incisions in the scalp. The skin is then separated from the underlying tissue and an expandable balloon is inserted underneath the skin. The balloon is then inflated and the surgeon will close the incisions. The balloon will remain in place for four to six weeks. The surgeon will then remove the balloon and close the incisions.
Extension of the scalp: In this procedure, the physician will use a surgical device that contains hooks associated with elastic bands. The hooks are placed in the incisions made on the scalp. The surgeon will then stretch the skin over the hook and secure it with an elastic band. The surgeon will then close the incisions. The hooks will remain in place for four to six weeks. After accomplishing the expected extension of the skin, the surgeon easily removes the extra bald skin. Now, the hair-bearing skin is brought closer to cover the area from where the skin was removed and sutured. This way, the bald patch disappears completely.
Scalp reduction surgery: The procedure is performed by administering general anaesthesia to the patient. The surgeon will make a Y-shape incision in the scalp or at the back side of your head. He/she will lift the sides and back of the scalp inward and upward to cover or close the region. The surgeon will close the incision by using staples or stitches. The surgery takes around two to four hours. The scalp reduction surgery scar can be shielded by hair styling.