bonkling

On 3/6/2019 at 4:08 PM, Lennney said:

And todays actual update: I am updating at the two month (55 days) mark. I had some free time this week, so I got a haircut today. I saw someone else post updates before and after his haircuts. I like that idea of no surprises. This way it is easy to see how the hair actually grows from one phase to the next.

I took a shower before BOTH sets. No oils, no medicines: just air-dried hair post shower.

Before haircut and after haircut. *In case order I selected is messed up, dark jacket is after haircut.*

Looking good, mate!

The redness can last much, much longer. I've seen cases of even months, so nothing to worry about at only two weeks.

Best of luck! 

1 minute ago, Markee said:

Post Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is real and many people suffer from it 

I don't really like to talk about it but Finasteride permanently messed me up the first time I used it about 15yrs ago and with in those 15yrs till now I've seen some of the best doctors on the planet and no-ones been able fix me. 

 

That's horrible mate, sorry to hear.

It sounds utterly awful from what I've heard.

10 hours ago, yesplease said:

I’m not so sure about this. I think it’s reasonable to assume that those who have suffered sides may be more likely to be vocal about it with forum posts, comments, etc. vs those who tolerate it well. 

However I wouldn’t say that a higher % of people who have sides would be expected to be frequenting this site in general. Plenty of people on here have never tried fin, tolerate it well or are just looking for information or support as they grapple with hairloss. I don’t see a strong case for bias in the way you describe. 

That's true, I don't feel like an assertion can be make either way, without any kind of data to support. 

I more-so suggested that polling a site that deals with hair loss, would potentially contain a higher proportion of finasteride users who have suffered sides, as opposed to a site completely unrelated to hair loss. As taking the drug with no sides can result in the slowing down, even cessation of hair loss in certain instances.  

For instance, I saw a poll on Reddit about two months ago, asking about Fin, and the responses were by far mostly positive. Too many variables to consider, though.

On 2/28/2019 at 8:43 AM, JayLDD said:

Hairline looks terrific, but imo this is a perfect example of why temple work should be a last resort for someone with serious recession issues to the point hairline work wouldn't be natural without it. There is a giant difference between the texture of the transplanted temple hair and the natural temples that imo someone off the streets could pick out. It also draws attention to the different texture of the transplanted hairline, which usually isn't an issue because it is naturally different than the temple hair.

If the temples are going to be transplanted, the entire area should be rebuilt such as not to leave such a wide contrast immediately visible such as in this case. The bottom of the temple as in the design markings has been left natural and the upper area transplanted which makes this an issue.

Hi Jay,

Just out of curiosity, is there anything specific you'd recommend for someone with bad temple recession?

My hair is pretty much okay everywhere else, but the temples continue to recede.

Are you saying that the entire frontal region should be done to promote a more uniform composition?

Thanks mate

Fin sides lasted about a week, for me, and I think they occurred due to a self-placed placebo effect of sorts. I.e. the sides are bad so I'm sure I will get them.

They went away, never noticed any difference in libido. Sometimes my libido is so high that it pisses my partner off, the only thing that has ever killed it is porn if I'm honest.

You can start small, .25mg, or so, then work up. My derm has lowered my dosage from 1, to 0.5, as this lower dosage still gives me the same effect when it comes to slowing recession. 

Not saying the sides don't exist, not at all but everyone is different, and I know of people who have been on the drug for over 5 years.

I experienced sides for literally a couple of days, but I feel this may have been more-so due to a mental expectation of their occuring, as opposed to a physiological impact.

One thing to consider, is that a lot of people who may have tried fin, and had no sides, simply did not need to browse forums for answers. It's not unreasonable to assume people occupying a hair-loss forum would be those that have had to stop fin at some stage.

22 hours ago, Melvin-Moderator said:

This forum has helped so many including myself navigate the waters of hair restoration. But some aren't so lucky, it's an important topic, because hair transplant surgeons aren't created equal. This community has battled free-speech lawsuits for the protection of patients before patients had a voice. Thankfully, now we have a voice and we're able to share our journeys and experiences with one another.

Share this video with friends, family and social media. Who ever may be considering a hair transplant.

 

Melvin, great, great video. 

Your input, and your effort to this site has honestly made my investigation so much easier. Same goes to all contributors.

Also, your result is amazing - looks to have been a real home run. Congrats

Hi all,

Serial poster, potential annoyance back at it again. 

I have narrowed down my surgeons to a few, one being Dr. Sethi, of Eugenix Hair Sciences in Mumbai. His, and his team's results are truly impressive from what I have seen.

I am just wondering whether myself, as a thin-haired, caucasian, would have inherently different hair to those in other parts of the world (i.e. India)? And if so, is this something that should be a defining factor in who I choose?

I have attached some pictures of what my recession looks like, for reference. Currently sitting at a disgruntled NW III.

Thanks all.

7 hours ago, Djshakes said:

Maybe it was because they were new or the cheesy name? I thought I remember reading that thread when I was looking and some said "LA Hair Clinic"  What the hell is that, stay away.  It almost scared me away too but it seemed like others later in the thread commented that they had a lot of videos, etc.  Honestly, that is what sold me on them.  The price was hard to swallow but damn am I glad I did it.  I honestly don't even look for more growth anymore.  I hope it comes, but I'm happy with what I have.  Being OCD I am glad I don't have to continually check for a year.  I tend to think most places tell you are full year but I'm wondering if a majority of your results come between month 3 and 5? I guess it is different for everyone. I will continue to post each month up to a year.  

Hi Dj,

Your results, firstly, look amazing - and especially at only 5 months.

Honestly, most people don't expect this sort of growth until 7+ months, so I am sure you will increase in density quite a bit.

I have been looking at LA Hair Clinic myself, they seem to be completely transparent.

Best of luck!

19 minutes ago, Jhonny said:

@bonkling

how are you doing mate? I'm from Australia as well and in the same boat as you. have you picked the surgeon yet? I've been digging in this amazing forum for months and gained lots of info and knowledge but I'm still far to name my dr.

Let us know how you go.

cheers

 

Hey Johnny, I'm good mate, how are you?

Not just yet mate, same situation as you.

I'm finding it hard because I keep seeing more good surgeons pop up, haha. I've got a few I'm considering, but I haven't made any enquiries. What about yourself? Anyone in particular?

Cheers

Thanks a lot, everyone. Really good advice.

I am a NW3, with no crown recession (of yet), and have been on min/fin for about two years.

I'll see if I can find similar cases. 

Getting to the stage now where I am over contemplating, and just want to get it done. Starting to become a bit restrictive on my lifestyle.

Thanks again everyone.

Hi all,

Recently I've been really narrowing down my options, and will be looking to get a HT this year.

Initially, I didn't know where to start, but now, thanks to this forum, I almost don't know who to choose. This wonderful forum has shown me so many great surgeons I had never even heard of.

Ideally, I would love to visit Hasson and Wong, but their cost is quite high, at 8$ & 6$ USD per graft (I am an Australian, and the conversion makes me cry). 

I was tossing up between LA Fue Clinic, Keser, and Dr. Pradeep Sethi at Eugenix, just to name a few. 

I guess my main question is, when choosing your final surgeon, what specifically tipped the scales in their favour for those that have had transplants? 

I'm looking for some tools to narrow down my options, it's become very hard to bite the bullet and choose someone.

Thanks everyone!

Your results are amazing! Congratulations! You look fantastic 

18 hours ago, Djshakes said:

I hope you're right. 

They charge $6 per graft.  I negotiated a better rate with a cash deal.  I only paid for 3000 grafts.  I received 3342.  I was not asked to pay more.  This place is top notch.  He cares about his work and the outcomes so he used the amount of grafts necessary to achieve the best outcomes.  

I selected this place because of their transparency.  They are the only place I found that actually posts youtube videos of the whole procedure.  I understand most surgeons may want to keep their techniques secret but to me that showed absolute confidence in their work putting it out there for others to critique.  

All their reviews are spot on.  Reading them you think it is too good to be true but this place was awesome from start to finish and whenever I text with followup questions I get a response same day.  

You get what you pay for.  Damn, if I get more growth I will do a backflip.  This has literally changed my life.  

That's awesome mate, so happy for you! 

It honestly looks like such an amazing result at only a few months, I'm seriously impressed.

Their team seems great, from the videos I've watched. Are you able to disclose whether the cash incentive provided a substantial discount? I understand if you don't feel comfortable saying so.

Happy growing!

Hey all,

I've been posting a bit, and learning a lot thanks to how great/informative everyone on this forum is.

I'm getting close to officially starting the process, and was wondering if anyone knew of some surgeons that may suit my case.

I am: 27 years old, NW 3, and have been on a compound medication comprising of fin, minoxidil, and some other vitamins for about 1.5-2 years. This has resulted in subtle, new growth around the front of my hair, but my temples are still receding slowly. 

I guess I am looking for a doctor who can restore my hair-line, and can achieve good density - as the medication seems to be buffering other areas of my hair (according to my dermatologist).

From what I've seen, Hasson and Wong do a great job with this sort of case, but does anyone else have any more suggestions? Money isn't too much of an issue, as I have saved considerably for this occasion, and distance too is a non-issue (living in Aus, so everywhere is far away).

As usual, thanks so much to you all.

On 1/23/2019 at 9:51 PM, Sean said:

Hairlines may be able to be refined.  It depends on the ethics of the doctor.  It depends in the level of scar tissue a surgeon causes with creation of  high density recipient sites and so forth.  If there is ridging and cobblestoning it makes things scary and some docs recommend complete resection.  Lots of variables here.  

It is best to find a doctor that excels in the true art of lateral slit technique and places grafts safely with safer tools.  A lot of what you see online is misleading and misinformation.  There are folks that are not upfront and can decieve.  You really have to be careful and do your research also outside of forums by trying to find real patients you can meet up with.  

I see, I hadn't even considered it to this depth, thanks a lot man.

Are those techniques and tools, usually reserved for clinics where the surgeon does most/all of the work?

On 1/23/2019 at 8:59 PM, jj51702 said:

This is a tough question as it’s my belief that one should choose a doctor based on their “speciality” and if you like their design work overall (this mainly applies to the hairline). Some docs excel at crown work such as Lorenzo and Wong. Some are hairline experts like rahal, keser, etc. 

 

some doctors easily knock out 5k+ grafts per session (asmed and hattingen) and some only do less than 1000 a day (keser) so it also depends on your needs.

 

theres a few other things to consider such as wait times and least importantly distance.

 

in the scenario where money is no issue and you’re a well informed patient going with a reputable/ethical doctor, I don’t think you can really go wrong as your maximizing your chances of success vs trying to bargain shop and take more risk 

Thanks for the info, mate. 

Mine is a receding issue, largely in the temples and the front. Crown and so on have had no loss so far.

Do you know of any doctors that are specialised in these areas?

7 hours ago, Kiwi Guy said:

Have you narrowed down the surgeons you are interested in?

I was thinking about Cinik/Asmed, for a quicker turn-around, but also looking at Cooley, Feriduni, Konier. 

23 minutes ago, Kiwi Guy said:

Hey man, I'm in the same boat as you, except I'm in New Zealand. I've done a lot of research the last 3 to 4 months, especially with the invaluable help from this forum and I would say there is a lot of variable to answer your question. If money were no option I'd probably go with Konior, but also are you ok with a 1 year waiting list and would you rather do FUT or FUE because some surgeons are better at one then the other. Our exchange rate for the US is crap at the moment also so that is something to consider.

Hey mate, you're definitely correct. 

It's a hard question to summarise, especially when I don't really know what I'm asking, haha. It's hard being on one side of the world.

Most likely FUE dude, but ideally I would want the procedure this year. Yeah for sure, I've crunched some of the figures and they are pretty massive due to the Aussie dollar. 

6 minutes ago, Jamothee said:

Looking at this Dr's results on his website appears he is a bit hit n miss. Some great results, some meh.

I was just looking at some results, too, and I agree. 

I've seen a couple of people not too happy also, more-so as time has gone on. 

Decisions decisions. 

4 hours ago, 1978matt said:

Dr Laorwong in Thailand may be worth a look. 

This was another option I had been considering. 

Especially seeing as the journey from Australia isn't as long. 

Thanks for the advice, everyone. 

3 hours ago, RecessionProof said:

I asked myself the same question and it ultimately led me to book with Konior, even though he's one of the pricier surgeons out there.

You only get one hairline -- better to pay extra for something that will affect your appearance for the rest of your life (even if your hair continues to thin).

Dr. Konior seems to be a popular choice, even though he may be expensive. I don't think I've seen much other than good/great results on these forums. 

I may have a look into his clinic, too.

Hey mate, 

I wouldn't be too stressed. Your result at 4 months is really good compared to a lot of people.

You will see much more growth from mo the 6-8, so try not to stress so much. It really can take a lot of time!

3 hours ago, JeanLDD said:

For mid-large size procedures and happy to wait over a year for surgery, Freitas. For a mid-large sized procedure and a smaller waiting list, ASMED for FUE or HnW for FUT. For a small refinement or hairline procedure and ability to wait over a year, Konior or Keser.

The reality is the level of results in US are not unquestionably higher, people just tend to ignore small imperfections or bad results from US surgeons that they wouldn't elsewhere and drill the idea that technicians performing surgery is bad. Unconvinced that any in the US are a noticeable level above say a Feriduni, Freitas or Keser in Europe. 

Although Canadian, especially for FUT and high graft numbers where the price drops, HnW isn't what I would consider expensive though tbh. Very reasonable value. I think they also discount on future procedures.

No matter who you choose, I would go to a surgeon for whom you could afford more than one surgery with in the short term as very few get perfect results in a single pass and you're generally better off with more grafts and a second procedure than a surgeon who is already stretching the budget one a single run through.

Thanks, Jean.

That makes a lot of sense. I'm from Australia, so I'm going to have to travel quite a bit regardless. 

Feriduni looks to have great results, and I hadn't heard of him before. Thanks a lot for the advice!

Hi all, 

A bit of a hypothetical, but also may be applicable to some.

If money was no issue, and you could choose anyone, who would you choose? (With the exception of one's that have a 3-4 year wait).

It's so hard to pick a surgeon, because some in the US (Cooley, LA FUE clinic, H&W) have unreal results, but are so expensive.

Then, some like Cinik, Asmed, and so on also show great results, but have naysayers floating around.

I guess im wondering if the gap between the expensive, versus the medium is now smaller than it used to be, and if it's worth if overall.

Thanks everyone.