17 Years Old and Losing Hair Rapidly – Should I Have a Hair Transplant?

I’m 17 yeas old and I’m losing my hair like crazy. I went to my family doctor and he recommended Rogaine, but it is not working for me. What else can I do and should I eventually just go for a hair transplant?

I would recommend that you see a specialist in hair loss such as a hair restoration specialist or a dermatologist with a special interest in hair loss to examine your scalp and give you a likely reason for your hair loss. Something to consider is that a person with a full head of hair may lose 100 or more hairs per day as the follicles go into their normal resting or “telogen” phases. If you are seeing approximately this number in the drain after you wash your hair or in your brush or comb this may be “normal” daily loss. You should also keep in mind the history of the men in your family, both your mother’s and father’s side. If they have lost their hair at an early age you may in fact have early onset androgenetic alopecia, in other words, male pattern baldness. If this is the case then medical therapy is critical in order to slow or possibly stop the process. Initiating Rogaine or generic minoxidil, is a good first step, however you have to be patient when looking for results. Some patients notice increased shedding in the first several months of use and to notice a reversal in hair loss, it may take over 6 months; I would suggest that you continue this treatment. Propecia should also be considered as well. Although it is recommended for men 18 years or older there are instances when young males can benefit from the medication. You should consider a consultation with an endocrinologist if your primary care physician or dermatologist is reluctant to give you a prescription for this medication. Additional treatment with 2% Nizoral shampoo and low level laser therapy may also be considered.

At this stage you want to do everything possible to prevent further loss if in fact you are losing hair. I would not suggest surgery at this time and would be very cautious about considering surgery until you have a definitive diagnosis and you are in your 20’s. Even if you are considering surgery it is still important to remain on the medications.

James A. Harris, MD, FACS
Member, International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons

James Harris, MD, FACS James A. Harris, MD, FACS is an internationally prominent surgeon in the field of hair restoration surgery, and a published author of both medical and consumer publications. He is a faculty member of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he teaches hair transplantation to resident physicians in training and community physicians. As director of the Hair Sciences Center of Colorado (HSC), he has established a practice dedicated exclusively to providing the very best in medical and surgical treatments for hair loss. As part of this commitment, patient education and the highest standards of care are his first priority. Dr. Harris personally consults with every patient and is always the physician performing the surgery at HSC. Supported by an exceptionally experienced team of nurses and technicians specialized in hair replacement surgery, Dr. Harris' standard of care does not end with surgery. Personalized follow-up attention is provided after the procedure, starting the very next day. This care continues until the hair is grown out and the patient is satisfied. Dr. Harris is a member of the International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons and recommended by the American Hair Loss Association. Visit Dr. Harris Website: www.hsccolorado.com

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