Acrobaz's HT journey - Dr Feller

[Acrobaz]

I am from the UK and fast approaching 40. I have been reading the threads on this forum for a long time, and became a forum member only recently. I would like to say (to all of you) that your thread conversations have helped me (and I suspect many others) enormously. I would particularly like to single out Bill, Thanatopsis, Eman and Spex for such honest posts. It really does help keep people like me informed.

 

My HT journey began, like so many others, in the distant past. I began to recede noticeably at my temples in my late 20s and more obviously so by my mid-30s. By my late 30s, I had progressed to the situation where I had an 'island' of hair at the front of my head and a veritable ocean of scalp around it. For the Brits reading this, think Alan Shearer (although it looked far better on him than me). I realised it had become a defining feature of my physical appearance: if I had not seen a friend for a while, I noticed their eyes drift upwards to the top of my head (and I knew what they were thinking); it occasionally became the means by which my children distinguished me from the parents of their friends (i.e. I was the 'bald one').

 

I had known it was coming. There has been male pattern baldness on both sides of my family, always receding from the temples. I joked about it at first, because I had been absolutely convinced I would be fine when it happened ??“ after all, it was hardly going to take me by surprise. However, when at last it had reached the point where I was balder than I was hairier, I was surprised with the big change to my appearance and with how it made me feel. If you're reading this, you've probably experienced something similar. My response was to tend to avoid being photographed and, if I was photographed, I would wince at what I saw ??“ the gleam of scalp.

 

So, I tried option 1: the buzzcut, starting at #4 and then gradually down to #1. It didn't suit me. I have a large head and, unless I'm going through one of my rare super-slim phases, I also have a round head. A real full moon job. I know that the buzzcut is a look that really suits some men (and good for them too), but it didn't suit me. If it had suited me, if I'd have had compliments on how it looked, I'd have kept with it. But my wife and my kids didn't like it and my colleagues teased me. I took all the teasing in good part, but obviously would have preferred to look better.

 

Next, I tried option 2: the meds. In my case, this was something I bought in Boots (the name of which I can no longer remember) for about six months, then Regaine (minoxidil) for about 18 months. I can't honestly say one way or another whether it made any difference. It might have slowed the rate of shedding, but I had nothing to compare it to. (I only started taking Propecia recently.)

 

Eventually, I began to research HT procedures. My advice to anyone thinking of doing the same is to take your time and do your research. Then do some more research. Do not rush into anything. If you can afford it, be prepared to travel.

 

I first had a consultation with a clinic that is based in Cyprus, although I didn't realise that until I went along to the meeting in London. I met a charming bloke (who had received an HT himself recently). He was not medically qualified, but he knew what he was talking about and he did an initial assessment of me. In the follow-up feedback, he recommended 2,700 to 3,000 FUs by Strip. I am indebted to him for his honesty: I asked him where he would go if money were no object, and he said 'the US or Canada'. I have not named the clinic because I would not want to get him into trouble for his candour, but would be happy to tell anyone via a P.M. if they wished. I think it is a perfectly solid clinic.

 

I then left it for a while because, frankly, I didn't at that stage want to travel abroad to Cyprus, the US or anywhere else for that matter. So I began to look at UK options, and then had a meeting with a representative for the Hospital Group. At this point, I did not realise the poor reputation it had on this forum. The representative was nice enough, although he understood little about hair loss because, frankly, he himself was the nearest I've even seen to a lycanthrope. I was put under some pressure (although eminently resistible) to pay a ??500 deposit there and then. He said he thought the recommendation of 2,700+ FUs by the Cyprus clinic was 'nonsense' (he asked 'are they trying to make you look like me'?) and thought 1,000 would be enough. He said that I could always go back for more and that I could have upwards of 5 or 6 strips until I was satisfied. He sketched some in-fill on a picture in front of him ('a bit here, a bit there') and then showed me some pictures of celebrities they'd apparently done: Quentin Wilson from Top Gear and Francis Rossi from Status Quo. Not exactly poster boys of cool, but there you go. It would be fair to say that I was chased afterwards to commit, but did not.

 

I am not in a position to criticise the Hospital Group, as I had no further dealings with them. What put me off was the way in which their representative criticised a competitor. It dawned on me that these guys were in competition for my hard earned dough. I pulled away for a while.

 

Eventually, I discovered this forum, and it made all the difference. This may sound pompous, but I mean it: this forum is like a pure democracy, a Greek city state. Everyone can speak and everyone has a voice. Reputations are built or destroyed by consensus. Results are posted and clearly show the advantages and disadvantages of surgery. From my perspective, it was just what I needed: a place where the salesmen played little part (or were clearly labelled as such) and where the real input came from those who'd had it done. And, of course, I loved the idea that Doctors themselves participated on the forum and were willing to be publicly tested by their results. Who needs shiny brochures when you have this forum?

 

After a while, I made the decision to contact Spex privately. This was because, in my research, the name of Dr Feller had come up again and again. I liked his posts: realistic, opinionated, passionate and evidence-based. His demolition of laser-combs elsewhere on this forum deserves to be read by anyone who forgets that this is a science, meaning that all developments need to be empirical and peer-reviewed. So I decided: he was the Doc for me. For those of you who are still researching, all I can say is that I researched HTs for two years (I am nothing if not methodical) and chose Dr Feller. There are many good surgeons recommended on this site, but probably five to ten that are truly world-class, and Dr Feller is one of them.

 

Unlike some, I have not met Spex, although we have communicated by email and by phone. He has dealt with me very professionally: he didn't push any sale, left me to make up my own mind, and sent me links to a great deal of impartial information. It was a light touch, and it was much appreciated. He recognised that what I needed was material from which I could make an informed decision. He couldn't have been more different to the Hospital Group guy.

 

I had my procedure at the Feller Clinic on 17 February 2009. I shall post the photos as soon as I have them. I had 3,200 FUs. The day itself was almost pleasurable. Dr Feller has a good way with people and put me at my ease. I put my trust in him completely. We had a nice chat at the start and at the end of the day. The technicians were a nice bunch, particularly Anne, and they kept me supplied with orange juice and water. He was reassuring at several points during the day. He's been though it himself, and that gives him a lot of additional credibility.

 

For those thinking of doing it, I wouldn't describe it as painful. The injections to numb the donor and recipient areas are fairly unpleasant but, after that, you don't feel a thing, honestly. Having my wisdom teeth removed was worse by a factor of 20! I had couple of dizzy spells, but no nausea. It was all very straightforward. I left with a full set of clear post-op instructions, took a cab back to my hotel at the end of day and slept ok after a meal.

 

I flew back to the UK overnight the next day. I would definitely recommend an early return home. There was no problem flying. I would not have wanted to fly a few days later when the swelling had started.

 

I'm happy to respond to any questions. I'll keep you informed of my progress and photos will follow. At the moment, I am delighted I did it and I am yet another fully paid-up member of the UK branch of the Dr Feller fan club. Thanks also to Spex as well as to Bill and others on this marvellous forum.

 

Best wishes all.

[Eman]

Great write-up Acrobaz and CONGRATS on the beginning of an exciting journey and going to a great doc.

 

It is nice to read stories like yours and the patient approach taken regarding your hair loss. I believe being patient saves many of us from heading into the path of HT misery. You did the proper research and took your time before going in.

 

Your story sounds similar to mine, trying the shave down, the meds, contacting the hair mills or sub-standard docs, the almost going in for a procedure at a hair mill or sub-standard, having disdain of being in pictures where it showcases our large balding domes. But in the end with research and this forum you made a brilliant decision that you won't regret.

 

First and foremost, Happy Healing! Now sit back, catch up on movies, mags, books, tv shows, sleep, etc.. You have a while ahead of you before the fun starts. Use that same patience you had in the two years of "prepping" for this time. And pretty soon you won't be that "bald guy"!!

[Petchski]

Next stop, staple removal!

 

The redness should fade quickly, by week 3 you will probably have lost most of the grafts. At this point the initial elation has evaporated and you realise you strapped in for a long flight to a destination you can't wait to reach.

 

That's my story anyway, but we are all different. congrats of your procedure.

[Bill - Seemiller]

Acrobaz,

 

Thanks for sharing your hair loss story, the non-surgical treatments you've tried, and how you were led to Dr. Feller.

 

It sounds like you've done your homework and it's led you to an excellent surgeon.

 

I hope you'll share your photos on our forum and by creating a hair loss weblog.

 

I look forward to following your journey and witnessing your transformation. :-)

 

Best wishes,

 

Bill

[mgem]

Congrats mate ,great post ,all the best,

[Acrobaz]

Incidentally, Spex, my local health shop is selling 200ml aloe vera gel tubes for less than a quid. Time for you to offload your shares I reckon.

[Acrobaz]

Thanks Spex.

 

As you see, we went for a more mature hairline (rather than simply lowering it to where it once was), with a slight curve down at the ends, and reinforced the front third. I have some vestigial wisps of hair from my youthful hairline; you can see them best in the 'before' photos, and they were shaved off as part of the HT procedure. When they grow back, I'm hoping that they will reinforce the 'natural hairline' look.

 

When I saw the close-up five-day photos, I really liked the angles at which the grafts had been placed. I can see now how such refined work can make the difference.

 

The area towards the crown is thinning slightly but will hopefully be propecia-protected for the medium term. I am realistic that a further procedure may be needed at some point to reinforce the crown, but hopefully not for some years.

 

I loved what Dr Feller said about my donor area - he said it was "like a child's"! - and that it could supply at least two good strips in the future if that is what I want. It's nice to know that long-term options exists.

 

I caught sight of my stapled strip this morning in the mirror. It made me think of Lord Voldemort grinning from the back of Professor Quirrell's head ...

[Acrobaz]

Blog now added:

http://www.hairtransplantnetwo...-page.asp?WebID=1147

[richie48]

Hey acrobaz

 

Good blog , good write up , I like the quinten wilson and francis rossie bit the best hahahaha ,and good choice of surgeon , your loss looks alot like a guy from another forum called tommytwo , I 've met tommy at a meet and his results were stella , so you have nothing to worry about bud .

 

Keep on the meds as they really work , give them atleast 6 months to see any improvement from them , I've included a link to my own 15 month progress from a HT with Dr Feller and my use and progress just from meds

 

http://hair-restoration-info.c...66060861/m/143109821

 

Also on my blog is a step be step guild to staple removal hahaha

 

Take it easy and find a hobby to help you through the dark months ahead .

 

good luck

richie

[Raphael84]

Great write-up. Great choice of Doctor. Great Hairline. You results will no doubt be hugely impressive.

 

I think down the line Spex has helped more or less everybody with his knowledge, experience and optimism. Whether that be via PM's, e-mails or reading his highly relevant posts. So thanks Spex. Fellers results are also up there with the very best!!!

 

Good luck!

[Acrobaz]

Thanks for the positive comments guys. The staples are now out! I will post my experience of that shortly ...

[Acrobaz]

For those who are interested, I have updated my weblog with 12 and 20 day post-op pictures.

 

Regards

[Bill - Seemiller]

Acrobaz,

 

Your healing and hair shedding is right on course it seems.

 

Thanks for keeping us updated on how things are going for you so far.

 

Best wishes,

 

Bill

[AdamB]

Thanks for the comment on my topic!

 

You've healed really quick and for the length of your hair your scar looks amazing for 24 days post!

 

best of luck mate i'll be following with interest!

 

Ad

[Acrobaz]

I have now discovered why HTs make you feel younger: I spent much of this evening squeezing several zits in my recipient area. It's like being a teenager again.

 

I'm glad I was forewarned by other posters ...

[Acrobaz]

I have updated my blog today at the four-week post-op stage. A warning for those of a sensitive disposition: there is a delightful close-up of a spot ...

 

Regards.

[Acrobaz]

I have updated my blog today at the six-week stage.

[yankeesfan]

Acrobaz,

 

Things are looking good. You look to have healed well and I am sure no one can even notice you had anything done. Your hair looks just like it was before you had the surgery. With a great surgeon like Dr Feller you have only good things to come.

[mgem]

You're getting there, the scar is covered nicely, and about halfway through the waiting stage ( i am not looking forward to this bit ).You're going to have a good summer All the best mgem

[Leeson]

What Spex said

[Petchski]

All looks good acrobaz. I have had shock loss, but I can now see quite a lot of little fine hairs poking through my scalp at 9 weeks now, which has cheered me up no end. You may get regrowth earlier than you think

[Acrobaz]

Thanks for the encouragement fellas!

[Ceasar08]

Hi Acrobaz --

You're right on schedule. It's definitely a marathon not a sprint, so try to take your mind off of it for a few months now (I know it's really hard from my own experience). Judging from your pics, you should have a nice result in Dr. Feller's hands.

Keep us posted.

[Bill - Seemiller]

Acrobaz,

 

It looks like your progressing normally and as expected.

 

It takes awhile to see the results to come in and patience can be a bear. But hang in there - in several months you'll be singing praises about having a new head of hair :-).

 

Bill

[Acrobaz]

Ok folks - now at 10 weeks and have updated my blog again. As the passing police officer might say, "move along now, nothing to see here". Unless you fancy indulging me and noticing some hairs growing in the recipient area that are only slightly larger than quarks.