Scalp FlapsAbout The Procedure
A Scalp Flap is one way to quickly and effectively move a large group of healthy, densely packed hair to an area of thinning or baldness. Up to 10,000 hairs or more can be moved in one flap.
Procedure Description
Scalp Flap surgery is performed in three steps. First, the sides of the flaps are separated from the surrounding skin. The front and rear end of the flap are not separated. The incisions are then closed and a dressing is applied. A week later, the second procedure is performed. The procedure is identical to the first except the rear of the flap is now separated from the underlying tissue, then closed again. The purpose of these procedures is to force the flap of hair-bearing skin to get its blood supply from one end of the flap. A week later, the previously cut, free end of the flap is transferred to a nearby balding area at the hair line. Within a week, the stitches at the front hairline are removed and the stitches within the hair are removed within two weeks. The flap reattaches itself to the new area and the formerly bald area now has hair.
Best Candidates for Scalp Flaps
The best candidates for Scalp Flaps are in good general health, completely bald toward the front of the scalp, have a stabilized pattern of hair loss, possess healthy hair growth on the sides and back of the head, and have realistic expectations about the procedure outcome.
Length of the Procedure
Scalp Flaps typically take 2 to 3 hours for each of the three procedures.
Anesthesia
Scalp Flaps are typically performed under general anesthesia.
Inpatient or Outpatient?
Scalp Flap surgery is performed on an outpatient basis or, with more extensive procedures, requires an overnight hospital stay.
Possible Side Effects
Possible side effects associated with Scalp Flaps include temporary achy, tight scalp and an unnatural look in early stages.
Recovery
During the first several days following the procedure, you will experience some discomfort in both incision areas. Mild headache, swelling and bruising around the eyes are all common. Scabbing is also common. Most people will be able to return to work within 3 to 5 days following the procedure.
You should be able to slowly resume normal daily activities over the next several days. Shampooing and combing should be avoided for at least 5-7 days. Strenuous activity should be kept to a minimum for about two weeks.
Duration of Results
Scalp Flaps are permanent.
Risks
Scalp Flap surgery can result in infection, scarring, or rarely, insufficient blood supply that leads to loss of part of the flap.
Cost
Expect to pay $10,000 to $15,000 for Scalp Flap surgery.
Scars
While there may be some scarring around the incision, it is normally covered by hair.
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