Hair loss in men can have several causes, and the pattern matters. A receding hairline or thinning at the crown may suggest androgenetic alopecia, but shedding can also be associated with illness, nutritional deficiency, thyroid problems, scalp conditions, medication effects or other factors. Treatment should start with identifying the likely cause rather than assuming every case needs a transplant.
What can be checked before treatment?
A consultation may include the pattern and speed of hair loss, family history, scalp examination, current medicines, recent illness or weight change, and other symptoms. Blood tests are not required for every person, but they may be advised when the history suggests an underlying medical or nutritional issue.
For an overview of common causes, see the Hair Loss page.
Hair-care changes have limits
Gentle handling, avoiding repeated traction and unnecessary chemical or heat damage, and maintaining adequate nutrition can support scalp and hair health. These steps may reduce avoidable breakage, but they do not reverse all forms of male-pattern hair loss.
Do not stop a prescribed medicine because you suspect it is causing shedding without first discussing it with the clinician who prescribed it.
Medical treatment
Minoxidil and finasteride are commonly used for androgenetic hair loss in appropriate patients. Their benefits, side effects and suitability differ, and they are not a universal solution. Results take time, treatment often needs to be continued to maintain benefit, and response varies between individuals.
Finasteride can cause adverse effects in some patients and has important precautions. Minoxidil can also cause scalp irritation or other unwanted effects depending on the formulation and individual response. A clinician should help decide whether either option is appropriate for you.
When hair transplantation may be considered
Hair transplantation moves follicles from a donor area to areas of thinning. It may be considered when the pattern of hair loss, donor density and long-term planning make surgery reasonable. The donor area is the source of grafts; it is not the balding area. A transplant does not stop future loss in untreated native hair and cannot guarantee a particular density or lifelong appearance.
The main Hair Transplant page explains candidacy, planning and limitations in more detail.
Choosing between treatment paths
The most appropriate approach may be medical treatment, surgery, a combination, or observation. Factors such as age, progression, family pattern, donor reserve, health conditions, expectations and willingness to continue long-term treatment all matter.
If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, associated with scalp pain or inflammation, or accompanied by other health symptoms, assessment is especially important before considering cosmetic treatment. For an individual review, contact the clinic.