Use of LLLT post-op?

[GHTJourneya]

Has anyone seen improvement by using low laser therapy (LLLT) caps post-op (starting after day 20-30) ?

In theory, it might reduce shedding and speed up the recovery process, but at the same time I do not want to put my follicles at risk. 
I know it has a great safety profile, but I am reluctant to wear caps or hats post op. 

I do own a laser cap (272 diodes) and I can potentially use it to improve things, but should I? Are there any non-affiliated surgeons that do recommend wearing caps post-op?

[kirkland]

I used LLLT within a few days after my HT but not a laser cap device - it was a handheld device that I suspended about 10 cm above the scalp and use daily for 30 minutes. It's a self-observation so take it for what it's worth but my growth has been pretty amazing. My donor characteristics are already good so I could just be importing my biases into my observations. I know there is no consensus that LLLT's are objectively beneficial for post-op HT's but I believe that if you think it is making a difference, then no harm.

However, although LLLT's are non-thermal treatments, including laser caps, you want to be careful with how long you have the cap on, especially just after a HT. Those diodes are very close to the scalp so I would be cautious and like @MazABhas suggested, wait at least 30 days after the surgery before donning a laser cap. If you do decide to use it earlier, keep the time to 10 minutes max - I have no studies to draw upon with this suggested time so, again, take my opinion for what it's worth.

The value of LLLT's in the wavelength ranged used in laser caps (630nm-660nm), from existing studies, is in collagen and fibroblast formation, so generally better recovery from injury. In theory, it could speed up the wound healing process post HT, which could accelerate new graft hair growth.

[Rahal Hair Transplant]

In my opinion, LLLT isn’t going to do anything to impact the growth of your hair transplant good or bad.  If anything, it might help to thicken existing natural thinning hair if you are diligent with its use 6 to 12 months prior to procedure.  But even then, there are mixed reviews and opinions in the hair restoration profession regarding the efficacy of low level laser therapy as a hair loss treatment.  While some stand by the claim that it could be effective in slowing down, stopping or even helping to reverse the effects of male or female pattern baldness, others are adamant that scientifically speaking, LLLT could not possibly have any impact on hair growth.

but regardless of LLLT and it’s affect on reversing androgenetic alopecia, a hair transplant will grow affectively on his own without using any non-surgical treatments. For instance, forum member Kirkland States that his hair transplant growth appears to be amazing. But in my opinion, his growth would likely be just as impressive if he wasn’t using LLLT.

Best wishes,

Rahal Hair Transplant 

[Melvin- Admin]

I don’t think LLLT will stop hair loss, but I do think it can speed up hair growth. I’m gonna use a combination of things. We shall see. 

[Mike10]

Not too sure. I guess if you have some mild balding and you are responder, it can have some moderate effect. 

[kirkland]

4 hours ago, Rahal Hair Transplant said:

In my opinion, LLLT isn’t going to do anything to impact the growth of your hair transplant good or bad.  If anything, it might help to thicken existing natural thinning hair if you are diligent with its use 6 to 12 months prior to procedure.  But even then, there are mixed reviews and opinions in the hair restoration profession regarding the efficacy of low level laser therapy as a hair loss treatment.  While some stand by the claim that it could be effective in slowing down, stopping or even helping to reverse the effects of male or female pattern baldness, others are adamant that scientifically speaking, LLLT could not possibly have any impact on hair growth.

but regardless of LLLT and it’s affect on reversing androgenetic alopecia, a hair transplant will grow affectively on his own without using any non-surgical treatments. For instance, forum member Kirkland States that his hair transplant growth appears to be amazing. But in my opinion, his growth would likely be just as impressive if he wasn’t using LLLT.

Agreed. There's nothing specific that I have come across in the studies on the benefits of LLLT for hair transplants. Some prominent HT docs, like Bill Rassman, believe the whole thing to be bunk. My take on photobiomodulation is that, while there are no studies on its impact for hair transplants per se, there is a lot of peer reviewed work showing it to be effective in wound healing. It's used extensively (and effectively) in the dermatology world for skin pathologies. But, again, devices with higher energy outputs than what you can buy for home use are used in these clinics and studies. I'm experimenting- nothing more. My solid growth most likely comes down to good growth characteristics.  

[LaserCaps]

The four modalities we typically refer to are Propecia, Rogaine, PRP and Laser.  Propecia and Rogaine tend to be most effective in the crown area.  The problem, in my opinion, is the fact that patients expect.  When they see nothing, they become frustrated and stop, not understanding the medication is not intended to grow anything.  It is to help retain so you do not get any worse.  PRP/Laser can help reverse the thinning.  Thus, the caliber of the miniaturized hair can thicken up.

There are tons of lasers out there and in all price ranges.  Some with LHD lights while others with diodes.  The best unit I've used is the LaserCap Pro which includes 224 diodes.  There was a study done on this model and it was concluded that the array of 224 would allow for the most benefit.  This is by prescription only and carries a lifetime warranty.  It is only available through providers.  

So, to answer, the result will depend on the unit you purchase.

[kirkland]

6 minutes ago, LaserCaps said:

The best unit I've used is the LaserCap Pro which includes 224 diodes

Yeah - this is what intrigues me the most about LLLT and hairloss. Diodes are becoming more efficient, powerful and cheaper; battery storage capacity is increasing - there's definitely a market here that's going to push companies to get higher energy outputs. I'm excited to see if a bunch of red lights in a cap can regrow thinning hair substantively.