What Happens At An Initial Hair Loss Evaluation

You can’t fix a problem unless you know what the problem is. That is why understanding the reasons behind a person’s hair loss is an essential first step in the hair restoration process. By knowing the cause of a patient’s hair loss, our hair restoration physicians can develop the most effective treatment plan specifically tailored to their unique characteristics.

At the Miami Hair Institute, we use a comprehensive methodology when conducting initial hair loss evaluations. While every patient is different, here are some of the things that may be part of your first visit with us.

Thorough Examination

We’ll begin our evaluation by gathering a detailed medical history, performing an in-depth scalp examination using state-of-the-art diagnostic and imaging tools, such as Fotofinder computerized photos and dermoscopy, as well as hair mass measurements.

Battery of Tests

We may also conduct tests to measure hair mass and density. Using trichometry, we can measure hair mass in 10 minutes without the need to cut any hair. The precision and accuracy of this method are superior to other methods available today. It detects the smallest changes in hair number or caliber and can be used to predict baldness years before it becomes apparent.

We also measure hair density to determine how many hairs are present per square centimeter of scalp. We conduct the test by trimming a small area of scalp to the length of 1mm, and then photograph, enlarge, and count the hairs in the area.  

If appropriate, we may also perform blood tests to identify any hormonal imbalances or deficiencies that might be contributing to a patient’s hair loss issues.

Scalp Biopsy

When a follicle scarring process appears to be the cause of a patient’s hair loss, a scalp biopsy is often needed to establish or confirm a diagnosis. We can use the results of a biopsy to make or confirm a diagnosis of alopecia. We can also obtain important information in cases of unexplained hair loss or when the potential for regrowth is in doubt.

When we perform a scalp biopsy, we extract one or two small specimens of scalp tissue and hair follicles for analysis. Each sample is about the size of a pencil eraser. To gather the specimens, we clean a discreet area of the scalp, trim the hair in that area, and administer a local anesthetic. Once we remove the samples, we close the small scar with stitches that we will take out a couple of weeks after the biopsy. The whole procedure takes approximately 15 minutes. After gathering the specimens, we submit them to a skin pathologist specializing in diagnosing hair loss problems.

Call the Miami Hair Institute Today For Your Personal Hair Loss Consultation

The first step in discovering why you are losing your hair and what you can do about it is to schedule a hair loss consultation. We invite you to schedule an evaluation at the Miami Hair Institute. Drs. Nusbaum and Rose are internationally acclaimed hair restoration surgeons with more than 40 years of combined experience. To receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan, contact us online or call our office directly at 305-925-0222.