Recipient area shaving

[Romans828Guy]

When is shaving the recipient area necessary? I have read a few posts on this network that seemed to tie not shaving to recipient area shock loss. Is there any truth to this?

[Blake Bloxham]

Romans,

 

I doubt the correlation between not shaving and shock loss is well established. Shock loss will occur if the follicles surrounding the implanted grafts are miniaturized and vulnerable; this is probably more noticeable if the hairs are long, but it can occur regardless.

 

Most physicians prefer to shave. It helps doctors visualize the recipient scalp and facilitates straightforward, effective surgery. However, a lot of doctors will make an exception if you're really against it or have a compelling reason not to shave.

[Romans828Guy]

That makes sense....thanks for the reply!

[gillenator]

And the hair that is cut down within the recipient area also allows the surgeon to see the natural direction and angulation of the existing hair shafts. This is critical in order to minimize transection of the neighboring hair.

[Romans828Guy]

I work in an office environment. I need some hairline work. I worry about having to go to work all jacked up.

[gillenator]

I work in an office environment. I need some hairline work. I worry about having to go to work all jacked up.

 

Do you have a fair amount of native hair in the area?

[Romans828Guy]

Yes, My hair has thinned slowly from back to front. The hairline itself may have receded back 1/8 to 1/4 inch. The thinning has just now started to break through to the hairline. With styling, I can create the "illusion" that my hairline is still ok due to a relatively thick "tuft" in the center. Unfortunately, I can see that area getting thinner and thinner too.