Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Normally, hair loss is caused by heredity, hormones and age. Genetic makeup determines if hair follicles are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), causing them to shrink. This "shrinkage" results in overall thinning with time. In addition, the aging process can weaken the follicle and consequently the hair shaft. Hair loss can also be caused by other factors such as stress or an underlying disease, for this reason hair loss should be diagnosed by a professional.

The medical term for inherited baldness is "androgenetic alopecia." In men, it is called "male pattern baldness" and usually progresses to the familiar horseshoe-shaped fringe of hair. Everyone's hair loss is unique and different, but doctors have classified baldness categories and have accepted a scale that graphically represents different patterns of baldness in men. It's called the Norwood Classification.

In women, hair loss usually takes the form of thinning over the entire top, or crown, of the head. The pattern of hair loss must be determined before a treatment plan is formed. The Ludwig classification system for female hair loss is shown. Since female balding patterns vary, the common classifications are listed in a range from slight hair loss (Type 1) to severe hair loss (Type 5). Your degree of thinning or breaking can change over time.

Affiliated with Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Medical Hair Restoration offers a permanent solution to hair loss. With over 50 offices nationwide, the surgeons at MHR treat hair loss in men and women through customized surgical hair transplantation, prescription medicine and topical treatments.

NEW - A Comprehensive Resource on Women's Hair Loss written by Dr. Matt L. Leavitt! Click Here