Upcoming FUE with Dr. Rahal

[SugarHighs]

Well my procedure with Dr. Rahal is coming up in around 6 weeks now, so I decided to post my photos. I opted for 2500+ grafts FUE, and was advised by the clinic that I am a "strong candidate" (patient advisor's words) for FUE based on my photos and age. I'm 38 years old, and I'm currently around the beginning of a NW 3.

 

The first 2 photos were the absolute worst I could make my hair look. It's cut to be worn forward, however I used the water pressure from the shower to push it back as far as I could. My hair was also grown out a lot longer than I normally keep it also.

 

The third photo is with a haircut and my hair pushed forward how it normally is. I think I may have also been wearing a hat, causing the curl to be flattened out, and more density.

 

I'm happy to hear anyone's thoughts, compliments, criticisms, etc of my current state and decision.

 

Thanks,

 

Sugar

 

 

 

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Edited November 28, 2011 by SugarHighs

[SugarHighs]

Incidentally, these photos were taken about 6 weeks ago, when I had not started taking biotin, msm, and fish oils, and I had barely just started on kirkland minoxidil. I also began taking propecia more consistently at that time, taking it at the same time every day, rather than all over the map.

 

In retrospect, I am shocked at how unhealthy my hair looks here - the vitamins and consistent propecia use have my hair looking much more healthy. My hair is shiny and just feels healthier. I'm not sure the front is any thicker, but the crown and back area do feel thicker.

 

I've since gotten a tan, too - a huge help to pale skinned guys with high hairlines, IMO. =)

[aaron1234]

Congrats Sugarhighs! I must say if that is the worst you can make your hair look then you are one lucky guy. Getting on Fin is a wise decision. And going with Rahal is even more of a wise decision. Good luck and can't wait to see the work. :cool:

[SugarHighs]

Congrats Sugarhighs! I must say if that is the worst you can make your hair look then you are one lucky guy. Getting on Fin is a wise decision. And going with Rahal is even more of a wise decision. Good luck and can't wait to see the work. :cool:

 

Thanks Aaron. I'd like to clarify that I've been on Fin for 11 years since I was around 27, but I was taking it inconsistently. Some days I would take it at 10am, others at 6pm, and some days I even forgot. I've noticed taking it consistently at the same time everyday appears to have helped.

[aaron1234]

Ah, I see. Consistency is the key my friend. I hear the morning is the best time to take Fin since testosterone levels are usually higher then.

[BadBeat]

Is it just me, or does 2500 seem like a lot for your level of hair loss?

[SugarHighs]

Is it just me, or does 2500 seem like a lot for your level of hair loss?

 

I consulted with 3-4 clinics and I was given graft estimates that varied between 2000 and 2800. Maybe the experts can weigh in here.

[orlhair1]

Congrats on your upcoming surgery! You have a lot of native hair already, so that 2500 will really make a big difference for your hairline. I think if several clinics were in that range, then you have the best guidance you can get on the number of grafts. Keep us posted.

[chrisdav]

Have you got any other pictures as i cannot work out where they are?

[HARIRI]

Good luck, You have chosen a great surgeon and a great technique. I wouldn't do a strip if my scalp was virgin. FUE is a great choice, no scar no discomfort and no stretching risks plus it yields well if done properly cause its all about the individual talent of the surgeon. Its a less dependent technique of technicians. However I find 2500 grafts is too much for you. IMO, you need less than that maybe around 2000 and not more. All the best Sugarhighs.

[SugarHighs]

Have you got any other pictures as i cannot work out where they are?

 

Chris they are attached to the first post, can you not see them?

[NEWHAIRPLEASE]

You are certainly in great hands with Dr Rahal! Yes, meds will make a huge difference. When I was younger, coincidentally, I found them a nouisance to take! Now that I'm 37, they are just part of my daily routine. I can tell a big difference after a year on meds!

[SugarHighs]

Congrats on your upcoming surgery! You have a lot of native hair already, so that 2500 will really make a big difference for your hairline. I think if several clinics were in that range, then you have the best guidance you can get on the number of grafts. Keep us posted.

 

Will do orlhair1. Thanks!

[SugarHighs]

Good luck, You have chosen a great surgeon and a great technique. I wouldn't do a strip if my scalp was virgin. FUE is a great choice, no scar no discomfort and no stretching risks plus it yields well if done properly cause its all about the individual talent of the surgeon. Its a less dependent technique of technicians. However I find 2500 grafts is too much for you. IMO, you need less than that maybe around 2000 and not more. All the best Sugarhighs.

 

Dr. Rahal's graph estimate was the highest number I received from any clinic, by far. However it mentioned dense packing and that my hair line would be lowered - which I do want...

[HARIRI]

Ah well thats great then. But if you have a progressive thinning then try to get lesser density around 50 FU/cm2 cause you may need to play safe with your donor. Unless your family history is not more than NW4 then its OK. just an advice. Good luck.

[SugarHighs]

Ah well thats great then. But if you have a progressive thinning then try to get lesser density around 50 FU/cm2 cause you may need to play safe with your donor. Unless your family history is not more than NW4 then its OK. just an advice. Good luck.

 

I wonder if there is a photo chart somewhere that would show what someone looks like with 50 FU/cm2 in their hairline, 55 FU, 60, 65, etc. Someone with dark hair.

[HARIRI]

Check this out...

 

50% Rule and Thresholds

[SugarHighs]

I'm hoping to end up looking something like this guy...

 

Andrew Ference Stats, News, Videos, Highlights, Pictures, Bio - Boston Bruins - ESPN

 

Realistic?

[Sean]

SugarHighs, I think you are an optimal candidate for FUE after looking at your pictures too. You said that is the worst you can make them, and I think there is nothing worst about your pics. Your hair loss seems to be pretty much stabilized and from the pics, I can tell you are in for fantastic results. The amount of grafts you are getting, the type of hair you have, I am sure you will have a dense hairline that will really impress.

 

I think the Andrew Ference example seems realistic. That is an amazing set of hair.

 

Smart choice with the FUE route, especially, for such minimal and controlled/stabilized hairloss. Wise decision my friend.

 

The day is around the corner, must be excited. You definitely have nothing to be nervous about. Few more months and you'll have that hair you want and nothing to worry about. The only thing you will have to worry about is what hair products/gels/etc to use with the multiple hairstyles you are able to have. Your gonna have lots of styling options.

[SugarHighs]

Thanks Sean, for the vote of confidence. I hope you're right!

 

It is amazing how fast the time has passed. I was agonizing about how long I'd have to wait, but the time has passed really quickly, just because I kept myself busy. January and better hair, here I come!

[SugarHighs]

I am a little bummed out about not being able to work out for a month post-procedure, however for the benefit of a great result, it's totally worth it!

[Sean]

Thanks Sean, for the vote of confidence. I hope you're right!

 

It is amazing how fast the time has passed. I was agonizing about how long I'd have to wait, but the time has passed really quickly, just because I kept myself busy. January and better hair, here I come!

 

SugarHighs, I am certain you'll get it. I must have reviewed your photo a couple of times and compared it to other results (strip & fue) and with the grafts you getting, your good to go.

 

Time does pass really fast. It's def getting exciting though.

 

As for me, I am growing more and more, and you'll have to check the update at the end up the month.

 

You got nothing to worry about, maybe a little snow, but hopefully not. lol

[AnthonySC]

Your hair looks essentially normal for 38. However, there is no pulled back top photo of your hair.

 

You could possibly go to NW3 but you have a long way to go.

[SugarHighs]

Your hair looks essentially normal for 38. However, there is no pulled back top photo of your hair.

 

You could possibly go to NW3 but you have a long way to go.

 

Hi Anthony, it's hard to pull my hair back at the front because it is so short and faded pretty high on the sides and back. I may try to put some more photos as I get closer to my visit to Canada. About 3+ weeks!

[AnthonySC]

That's fine I don't need to see your hair pulled back. I hear you about not being able to pull it back when shorter. Mine sticks up like a porcupine when short. Good luck with your surgery!

 

I'm in a sort of similar situation in terms of age and hair. Mine is NW2 with some thinning at the hairline...its been quite stable for a very long time. I'm still having trouble pulling the trigger on surgery. Strip or FUE....I still can't decide. Your hair quality looks good, especially if it is wavy or curly. Mine is fine and straight so there is little margin for error....its hard to mask mistakes/imperfections.