Richard Bredon

I've had three surgeries and each one has been trouble-free. It's now been three years since the first surgery and the following two surguries were four months apart. The only recommendation that I would make is to make sure that when the hair line is drawn for the implants that consideration is made as to what would look normal for your age. The first line drawn was simply a bowl-like line from the left to right upper part of the temples. To fill in all of that area would require several grafts. As well, it would not at all look natural because it didn't allow for a naturally receding hair-line. Instead, I had a line drawn that is more natural to my face, somewhat of a "V" line. This required less follicles and still looks very natural. Considering I was completely bald except on the top of my head, the difference is amazing. At first, I was embarrased to tell anyone about the surgery. In fact, I rarely mention it as it just appears that I must have been shaving my head all along. However, there is the permanent scar on the back of the scalp which needs to be considered with shorter hair cuts. While I went with more length at first, the scar has become less pronounced and I am not self-conscious about it. After all, I cannot see it and I have only had one person ever ask me what it was from. That person was a barber so I just said "a surgery" and left it at that. I lived in Cape Cod during the time I had the first surgery. I saw Dr. DiStephano's infomercial in the middle of one of the nights where I had a hard time falling asleep. I really didn't think too much about making the appointment and what I was getting into until I was in the chair and the donor tissue was being removed. At that point, I could only think "what if this looks like the plugs I have seen and I end up looking like a freak?" After a mild panic attack, the surgery was completed (five hours from the time I arrived till I left..and a three hour drive each way to Rhode Island). The first surgery looked horrible for the first few weeks because of the holes and scabbing. However, as the tiny follicles began to appear, I was amazed with the transformation. The second and third surgeries were easy because I knew what to expect. As well, there is already hair mass where the new the new holes were placed so after a few days, it was unnoticeable except for the stiches. While I would like to have a fourth surgery, the cost is fairly prohibitive these days. As well, I live in Seattle and would have to find a local surgeon or go to Palm Springs (where there are many). The staff and Dr. DiStephano were always very polite and helpful. I never had to wait to be seen as he only shedules one morning and one afternoon appointment. AS for the double edged blade, I am not familiar with the medical procedures regarding this use. I can only say that I have been very pleased with the results. After $17,000 invested, I do not have any reservations for any of the surgeries.