All posts by Tempus Hair Restoration

Restoring Your Crowning Glory – Hair Loss Treatment for Women

Female Hair Restoration, General, Women's Hair Tansplants

The adage, “A woman’s hair is her crowning glory” perhaps holds even more true today than ever before. While male baldness is generally accepted by society (although not necessarily by the individual men affected), hair loss in women remains a condition often left undiscussed – resulting in greater feelings of isolation and poor self-image.

Fortunately, women are now learning that they’re not alone in suffering from hair loss – and, more importantly, are now learning they have options to permanently restore their hair. One such woman shares her story of a six-year struggle with hair loss that finally ended after seeking treatment from Dr. Marco Barusco, Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration.

 

Janis’ Journey

Describing herself as always active, Janis Gagliardi enjoys a busy life that includes her husband and two adult children. After retiring from her career in nursing, Janis enthusiastically embarked upon her new endeavor as a real estate agent – seeing the common factor that “both are people-oriented jobs.” Seeking to make positive changes in other areas of her life, Janis also became involved in body building. But what she expected to result in improved fitness and well-being coincided with a sudden loss of hair.

Janis reacted the same as most people experiencing the early stages of hair loss. She bought over-the-counter treatments and nutritional supplements that promote healthy hair, but nothing worked. Her hair continued falling out for no apparent reason. She didn’t use performance-enhancing drugs – baldness being among the many serious side-effects of anabolic steroids – or supplements containing exotic, unproven ingredients. For a woman who prided herself on successfully taking on any challenge, watching her hair become increasingly sparse and wispy was an upsetting, frustrating experience.

Wearing ball caps became Janis’ go-to solution for concealing her thinning hair and bald patches. She tried fluffing up her remaining hair, which only succeeded in making the bald areas more conspicuous. Taking the opposite approach, Janis then combed her hair flat, but the effect was similar to that of the much-ridiculed male “comb-over,” and easily undone when the wind picked up. Another cruel blow to Janis’ self-image was giving up her black hair coloring, as it only created a greater contrast against her increasingly visible scalp.

After about six years of Janis’ solo battle against hair loss, the situation was getting worse. When people started asking if she’d been on chemotherapy, she knew she needed help.

Like many women, Janis associated hair restoration with transplants – especially the old-school “plugs.” But a lunch at The Pavilion at Port Orange gave her hope for the possibility of effective treatment. An advertising poster for Tempus Hair Restoration was on display at the shopping complex, leading Janis to ask herself if this could be the solution she had long hoped for.

“I didn’t like the idea of a hair transplant, but wanted to learn my options,” Janis said.

Janis scheduled a free consultation with Dr. Barusco, and was quickly put at ease by him and everyone she met in his practice. “They anticipated my unhappiness and embarrassment,” said Janis. “I was very self-conscious about it.”

Dr. Barusco performed a biopsy to rule out an autoimmune disorder. The result was negative, and his diagnosis of androgenic alopecia opened a treatment plan combining non-surgical treatment, pills, topical medication and laser therapy utilizing the CapillusRX™ laser therapy cap.  For this, Dr. Barusco is recognized as an innovative leader.

“For hair loss, usually a combination of treatments works better than monotherapy,” Dr. Barusco said. “The combination provides the optimal environment for the hairs to be both protected against damage and stimulated to grow stronger and thicker. But the treatments must be decided based on each patient’s situation and guided by many factors, so it is important to be counseled by a physician who understands hair loss.”

 

Treatment and follow-up

Janis described her non-surgical treatment as a painless procedure performed under local anesthesia that took from two to three hours. Follow-up treatment included laser therapy, which she still receives in-office three days weekly.

As her hair gradually began to grow back, Janis felt renewed optimism for a successful outcome. No longer would she feel embarrassed by bald patches – such as the time her husband mentioned he noticed two large areas on the back of her head, which she couldn’t see.

With Dr. Barusco constantly monitoring her progress, Janis showed remarkable improvement over the course of one year.

Janis even has a new hair color of choice – a trendy icy white shade that expresses her ever-youthful outlook and joy from again having a full head of healthy hair.

 

A lift in spirits

Although Janis had maintained her characteristic upbeat attitude throughout the challenges of her hair loss, Dr. Barusco noticed a lift in her spirits with the regrowth.

“I think that she has even more of a sparkle in her eyes now,” Dr. Barusco said. “She has always been, to me, a very positive, kind and bubbly person, but I think that now she is happier.”

Dr. Barusco and Janis expect to see further improvements. Dr. Barusco stresses the importance of maintenance treatment to experience the best, most long-lasting results after any hair restoration procedure.

“Women really don’t come out and talk about hair loss,” said Janis. “A lot of women have little tricks to hide it, like hats, wigs and ball caps. Hair loss is very concerning to women, more so than men.”

 

Dr. Barusco’s perspective

Janis learned that women no longer have to suffer in silence and feel isolated over hair loss.

Dr. Barusco offered his valuable insights, gained through years of experience in treating female patients.

“Women lose hair just as men do. Certainly, for women there is more of a stigma about hair loss. A woman with thin or thinning hair may become depressed, withdrawn and may start to shy away from people. So psychologically, it can severely impact their social and professional lives, particularly when the hair loss happens when they are very young.

“In women, particularly, it is very important that a full medical history is obtained, as often their hair loss is a consequence of other problems – such as thyroid disease, rapid weight loss, stress, childbirth, etc. If the underlying cause of the hair loss is not identified and treated as well, their response to treatment may be poor. On the flipside, when we are able to improve their hair, they are the happiest, and become big advocates to other women.

“The main point to drive home is that the earlier we can start treatment, the more hair we will save, and the better the outcome, both short and long-term. So it is important that women understand that this is nothing to be ashamed of, and that there are very effective solutions for treatment. But they have to take the first step, which is a consultation.”

Taking that first step

If you are a woman experiencing hair loss, trying to diagnose and treat yourself will only delay the treatment that can prevent further loss. You are invited to learn more about the innovative surgical and non-surgical hair restoration procedures that Dr. Barusco offers at Tempus Hair Restoration – as well as schedule your free consultation. We look forward to meeting you and discussing your options.

Celebrities and Hair Loss – When Image Really Counts

Dr Marco Barusco, General, Hair Loss Procedures

From local celebrities to international superstars, image is everything. While a growing number of people pursue an “Instagram-ready” look for their “followers” of friends and family, celebrities are under greater pressure to maintain a youthful, vital appearance. For male celebrities experiencing hair loss, a hair transplant procedure can be what’s needed to keep their career active, and the confidence to stay on their “A” game.

Because successful men in the public eye typically seek the best, most qualified surgeon to achieve phenomenal results, Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration – has had the honor of treating many leading actors, entertainers and professional athletes. While most choose to not confirm or discuss their procedure – wishing to maintain the illusion of eternal youth – others are glad to speak out about what led them to undergo a hair transplant.

Dr. Barusco and Jimmy Hart

One of Dr. Barusco’s patients who is well-known for speaking out is Jimmy “The Mouth of the South” Hart.

His career began in the 1960s with a rock band called The Gentrys, whose biggest hit was “Keep on Dancing.” After The Gentrys disbanded, Hart found superstardom as a professional wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling. Now a manager of professional wrestlers, Hart continues his passion for music and showmanship.

In his testimonial video for Dr. Barusco, Hart enthusiastically relates his hair transplant journey.

Hart’s hair loss involved his hairline, crown and back of the head. Although always keeping an upbeat attitude in public, he was increasingly unhappy with the changes, and believed his fans noticed the difference, as well.

“I know I could tell when I would do the shows … where people go, ‘Hey, Jimmy, how you doing,’ but nobody really came up to me and said, ‘Oh my gosh, you look so young!’”

That changed after meeting Dr. Barusco and undergoing a hair transplant procedure Hart described as painless and easy, allowing him to return to his busy schedule the following day.

Dr. Barusco describes the procedure he recommended for Hart:

“Jimmy had a couple of FUT (or strip) procedures, with the goal of filling in his hairline, mid scalp and crown. Due to the characteristics of his donor hair (caliber, density, etc.), I felt that the FUT procedure would provide him with the best result, combined with medical treatments to strengthen and preserve his native hair. He has done very well, and the small scar on the back of his scalp is not noticeable at all.”

Hart’s fans now tell him how young he looks – which speaks volumes about the successful result Dr. Barusco achieved. On a trip to Los Angeles, he said,

“Everybody asked me the same thing: ‘Jimmy, you look younger and younger! What’s the secret?’ I said, it’s the hair, baby!”

Dr. Barusco and Raven

Another of Dr. Barusco’s patients from the professional wrestling world, Raven, experienced hair loss in a more dramatic way – in the ring. The legend of ECW, WCW, WWF and TNA wrestling tells the story behind his decision to undergo a hair transplant in two testimonial videos for Tempus Hair Restoration – one pre-surgery; the other, the following day.

 

 

Raven’s larger-than-life persona owed a great deal to his luxurious mane of hair. One fateful match required the loser to have his head shaved immediately after – in the ring, before a house full of fans. Unfortunately, Raven was not the victor that night, and the person in charge of shaving used a sheep sheer turned upside down, slicing through Raven’s scalp with every pass. Blood ran down Raven’s face, which brought cheers from the crowd, who probably thought it part of the show. After the wounds healed, Raven’s hair failed to regrow properly, thinning in the center.

Quoth Raven: “I always thought I would just go bald, but after seeing my head bald, it’s not a good look for me. It was either go thin, or get a hair replacement. My ego prevailed. I never thought I would have an ego about this – that when it came time to go bald, I would just go bald gracefully. But apparently, I have more ego than I thought.”

 

Dr. Barusco recommended a procedure that would give Raven the desired fullness: “For Raven we also opted for the FUT procedure. He normally wears his hair long on the back, and for him having a small linear scar on the back of his head is not a big deal. We also recommended a plan so that his hair loss will slow down.”

The day after undergoing surgery, Raven spoke about the ease of the procedure and minimal sensation at the surgical sites. Today, he’s no longer balding, and back to bringing on the intimidation!

Dr. Barusco and Humberto Martins

Dr. Barusco’s famous patients aren’t all professional wrestlers, however. He tells of renowned Brazilian actor Humberto Martins, whose long career includes numerous movie and TV roles. As hair loss creates the appearance of age, this dashing leading man was being offered more and more roles of older characters. He decided to start treatment with Dr. Barusco in 2016 to win younger roles again.

Said Dr. Barusco: “For Humberto we used a combination of various strategies to rejuvenate and preserve his existing hair, which achieved the results he expected: subtle changes in his hair density, which has helped him with his career.

“However, whether a patient is a celebrity or not, everyone is a VIP for us and we use every treatment and technique at our disposal to provide patients with accurate diagnosis and the latest treatment modalities, including medications and/or surgery, when appropriate.”

Dr. Barusco and his staff treat one patient at a time, giving each the focused attention they deserve for a safe, comfortable procedure and the best possible outcome.

You are invited to learn more about the innovative surgical and non-surgical hair restoration procedures that Dr. Barusco offers at Tempus Hair Restoration – as well as schedule a free consultation to learn your options. If you are unable to visit one of Tempus’ 14 Florida locations in person, you may consult with Dr. Barusco via teleconference. For your convenience, consultations are offered in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

As fitting, we’ll let The Mouth of the South have the last words about the benefits of a hair transplant by Dr. Barusco – regardless the degree of your fame.

“Through the years, we all get a little bit older, and we all want to look a little bit younger … If you feel good, that’s what it’s all about!”

Facial Hair Transplants – Getting the Best Beard and Mustache

Facial Hair Transplants

November is a special month for many reasons – Thanksgiving being the most obvious. But thanks to some very committed people, it’s also known as Movember. Started by the non-profit Movember Foundation, this annual observation held every November since 2003 focuses on raising awareness of men’s health issues. Dedicated to early detection and life-saving treatment, Movember has a fun side to its serious cause. Men are encouraged to grow a moustache, share photos of their ‘stache on social media and tell others about how men can live healthier, longer lives.

 

Whatever month of the year it is, however, many men like the distinctive masculine look that facial hair bestows. For those with sparse facial hair who are challenged in being able to grow a moustache, full beard, goatee or sideburns, a facial hair transplant may offer the ideal solution.

Also, men who have facial scars may no longer be able to grow hair over them, resulting in a patchy, uneven effect for those wanting a beard or moustache. This relatively new area of hair transplantation surgery achieves permanent, natural-looking results that can give you the beard of your dreams – provided you choose an experienced surgeon who knows hair growth patterns and has a high sense of aesthetics.

 

Dr. Marco Barusco – founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration – is among the world’s leading surgeons performing facial hair transplants. As an award-winning board-certified surgeon with more than 20 years dedicated exclusively to hair restoration, Dr. Barusco uses his advanced procedures to fill in areas where facial hair is thin, or to subtly conceal facial scars. Because it’s important to know that the techniques for facial hair transplantation differ from those used for the scalp, Dr. Barusco takes care to educate potential patients about what the procedure involves.

 

Why can’t I grow a beard?

 

But first things first. Certain myths persist as to why some men experience only light facial hair growth. Genetics is the reason, but not in the way that may be expected. Men start to develop facial hair – which is regulated by testosterone – during puberty, and it doesn’t fully mature until their early 20’s. The interaction between testosterone and the hair that already exists causes it to grow thicker and darker.

 

And here is where the myth enters. It is typically believed that men who can grow a beard have a higher testosterone level – but in reality, most men have about the same level of testosterone. What makes the difference in facial hair growth is how one’s body responds to testosterone – which is genetically determined. Being highly sensitive to testosterone results in more facial hair. On the down side, it contributes to baldness.

 

“Genetics is the main factor,” says Dr. Barusco. “Even men with a family history of a full beard may have thin, patchy areas.”

 

In his experience with facial hair transplant patients, Dr. Barusco has found that sparse growth and patchy growth are equally prevalent conditions – and normally coexist in the same patient, who can have areas of sparse growth (defined as a low density of hairs), as well as areas where the beard is patchy.

 

Dr. Barusco finds that the recent trend for facial hair is shaping attitudes regarding the inability to grow the desired amount. Unlike the negative associations of baldness, Dr. Barusco notes “there is nothing against a clean-shaven man.” However, he says, “facial hair has become more of a fashion in the last few years. An interesting factor is that while hair loss in the scalp makes a man look older and therefore it is not desired, a beard or goatee will also age a man, but many opt to have it … myself included.”

 

Which should not be surprising. According to Domen Hrovatin, self-proclaimed “facial hair addict” and contributor to Balding Beards, facial hair – particularly beards – signify masculinity, strength, intelligence, confidence and a balance of sensitivity and edginess. Such positive qualities, of course, have been desirable long before the age of the hipster.

 

As for what type of facial hair his patients most frequently seek, Dr. Barusco says the most common requests are for a goatee and cheeks. “Many men can grow a satisfactory mustache, but often the mustache does not connect with the goatee, or they have sparse hair on their cheeks and can’t grow a full beard.”

 

What a facial hair transplant involves

 

The hair for facial hair transplants is typically harvested from the sides and back of the head, which are the same areas used in normal hair transplant surgery for bald and thinning areas of the scalp. The difference is that the hair removed is usually from lower down toward the neck, where the hair quality is more compatible to that of facial hair. This includes planning the angle and direction of hair for the most natural looking results. Dr. Barusco understands how hairs from different areas of the body behave, and has the skill and artistry to harvest those that are the best match, and ensure the hair follicles are angled correctly when transplanted.

 

“The challenges with transplanting into the face are many,” says Dr. Barusco. “From a technical standpoint, the most crucial is the angle and direction in which the hairs have to be placed to produce a natural result that will allow the patient to grow it long, if they so desire.

 

“Another aspect of the facial hair transplant is the donor area selection. Most of the time, we use scalp hairs from the safe donor zone, and the patient may need these hairs in the future, should they develop male pattern baldness. This factor becomes more important because most of the patients looking for facial hair transplants are young men. If the area(s) to be filled are small and few grafts are needed, we may use beard hairs, which are usually harvested from under the chin, as the source of donor hair.”

 

As Dr. Barusco takes great pride in his ability to conceal facial scars, he notes the considerable challenges it involves. “When transplanting into scars, I have to always be careful with blood supply, so hair grafts need to be placed further apart to guarantee growth. Patients who do hair transplantation into scars are always warned that they may have to do one more procedure for final hair density into the scar. But when done correctly, hairs will grow well in scarred areas.”

 

Healing of both the recipient and donor areas is typically complete in one week. Transplanted hairs will fall out two to three weeks after surgery. This is normal. New, permanent growth will begin within three to four months. Once permanent growth is established, the transplanted hair will blend in with any surrounding original hair. It may then be shaped and groomed in the same way as natural facial hair.

 

Making the right match to represent your heritage

 

Ethnicity plays a large role in the hair restoration process, as your genetics determine hair growth patterns, hair characteristics, hair density and hairline. Just as Dr. Barusco takes into account the ethnic background of hair transplant patients in order to achieve the right aesthetic effect, he does the same for facial hair transplants. Beard growth and density is different for men of different ethnic groups. Indian and Middle Eastern men tend to have denser beards, while Caucasians and men of African heritage have good density and more hair in their beards than Asian men. It is important for the surgeon performing a facial hair transplant procedure to achieve the aesthetically appropriate result that truly represents and respects your heritage.

 

You may have read that facial hair transplantation gives you the option of a “designer beard” or mustache – that is, a full beard, goatee or other style or configuration. While this is true to a certain degree, only a hair restoration surgeon can determine the extent of transplantation possible and advisable for your particular situation. Remember, a conscientious, skilled surgeon such as Dr. Barusco will also be closely examining the health of your scalp hair and assessing your risk for male pattern baldness.

 

Although more closely associated as an aesthetic choice for women, eyebrow transplants are likewise increasing in popularity. Men may elect for this procedure to conceal scarring from head trauma or eyebrow loss from other causes. Again, harvesting and crafting the donor hairs to achieve the appearance of naturally growing brows requires a highly skilled surgeon. Not all are equally qualified to perform this exacting procedure.

 

A note for “new” men

 

While facial hair transplants are a comparatively new frontier, the procedure also offers a way for trans males to achieve a more masculine appearance that aligns with their expressed gender identity. In addition to beards, mustaches and sideburns, eyebrow transplants can complete the picture by creating the thick, full brows identified with men.

 

Just as important is choosing a surgeon – and practice – able to provide a supportive environment that respects your emotional needs during the transition period. Dr. Barusco has provided hair transplants for many transgender patients, allowing them to bring full expression to their true self.

 

Making the right choice

 

Regardless of the reason you’re considering a facial hair transplant, the surgeon you select will make a significant difference in its success, and your satisfaction with the results. A transplant can be technically correct – that is, the surgery involved no complications, and the hair follicles survived and thrived – yet fall short of the appearance you want because the hairs weren’t placed correctly, or without consideration of your ethnicity.

 

Before you make your decision, we invite you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Dr. Barusco. You can visit one of our

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14 Florida locations in person, or by online video conference via Skype, FaceTime or WhatsApp. For your further convenience, we offer consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a beard – or mustache – or perhaps both – that you’ll be proud of for many years to come!

See Me, Not My Scar – Restoring Hair to a Head Trauma Patient Other Surgeons Turned Away

Male Hair Restoration, Surgery

It had been several years since the motorcycle accident that almost cost K.J. his life. Suffering severe head trauma, he was unconscious in his hospital bed when the doctor told his wife to prepare herself for the worst. But the 40-year-old husband and father fought to live, eventually making a recovery that stunned the doctor who had made the grim prognosis. Now, the only visible sign of his injury was the surgical scar and slightly recessed area where steel plates held a piece of his skull in place. Ready to move forward and make the most of his second chance at life, K.J. wanted to take the final step in healing: restoring his hair.

 

Although K.J.’s story may seem easy to sum up in one paragraph, his journey was grueling, with setbacks along the way. The injury necessitated removing a heart-shaped piece of skull, which was preserved for future replacement. The plate that was originally placed over the area also had to be removed because of high intracranial pressure – a life-threatening development. After he was out of immediate danger, K.J. underwent physical rehabilitation and wore a protective wrestler’s helmet for six weeks prior to surgery to replace the section of bone.

 

“It was pretty intense,” K.J. recalled. “For some crazy reason, I’m still here.”

 

K.J.’s next contact with the medical field was voluntary. Learning about the Orlando Live Surgery Workshop – a conference of hair restoration surgeons sponsored by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) – he submitted his case for consideration. Having attended full of hope, his heart began to sink as surgeon after surgeon declined to treat him.

 

Until Dr. Marco Barusco, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration, reviewed K.J.’s case and examined his scars – then gave K.J. the answer he had long been awaiting: he was a candidate for hair transplant surgery.

 

What did Dr. Barusco see that the other surgeons had missed? The deciding factor wasn’t so much what they didn’t see, as what they were unable to do.

 

“(The patient’s) case was difficult, and posed a higher risk of serious complications due to the surgeries he had for his head trauma,” said Dr. Barusco. “Particularly the reconstruction of his skull with a synthetic material, which was placed under the area to be transplanted. This made the procedure of transplanting hair more challenging and risky. Most other doctors don’t have the experience or the facilities to perform this procedure under sterile conditions, and with the pre- and post-operative preparations that were needed to do it safely.”

 

However, K.J. would have to wait a little longer for the complete restoration of his appearance. Because Dr. Barusco determined the surgery required more controlled conditions than the live surgery workshop provided to minimize the risk of infection, Dr. Barusco performed K.J.’s hair transplant surgery at Tempus Hair’s Port Orange location, which is designed to provide patients with a safe and comfortable surgical experience.

 

Dr. Barusco chose the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) procedure on K.J., which he determined would achieve the best results. “Due to his various scalp scars, the safe area for donor hair harvesting was limited to the back and right areas of his scalp,” said Dr. Barusco. “An FUT was recommended in order to move more hair in one procedure.”

 

 

“I had quite a bit of hair loss,” said K.J. “But I started seeing results about six months after the transplant, with full growth after one year. I could hardly believe it! The scarring is covered, and the growth pattern looks natural. Before, I felt like people saw the scar before they saw me.”

 

When asked what motivated him to undergo one more surgical procedure after he’d been through so many, K.J. reflected:  “I wanted to move on in life. When I see people with scarring, I can relate to what they’ve been through. My life is back to normal. I have my wife and my friends. Once you have hope and the will to survive, you make changes. I work out at the gym five days a week, and lead a healthy lifestyle. I’m in better shape now than when I was 40!”

 

In fact, K.J. recently returned to Tempus Hair Restoration for the same reason as the vast majority of Dr. Barusco’s other patients who trust themselves to his care – to treat standard, typical hair loss.

 

“When you start feeling more confident, you want to keep that feeling,” said K.J. “Dr. Barusco is just a phenomenal surgeon. I highly recommend him. He and his staff were very supportive. Dr. Barusco did his research and took his time.”

 

As remarkable as K.J.’s experience was, he is not the only patient with a challenging situation who Dr. Barusco has successfully treated. In fact, Dr. Barusco created a pre- and post-operative protocol designed to increase safety in these types of procedures. This protocol was published in a scientific journal and in a medical textbook, and today is used by many doctors in the field.

 

We invite you to visit our Before & After Gallery to see a wide range of inspiring results – then schedule a free, no obligation consultation with Dr. Barusco at one of our locations, or by video conference to learn your options. We look forward to meeting you, and helping you achieve the self-confidence to live your best life!

Advanced Treatments for Non-Pattern Hair Loss

Hair Loss Procedures, Surgery

Non-patterned Hair Loss – Causes and Treatments

The stages of hair loss typically follow one of several common patterns – from a receding hairline to the classical horseshoe to the central bald spot. While genetics is the leading cause of male pattern baldness, some types of hair loss occur outside of this category. Hair falling out in patches or during a relatively short time period can have a number of causes, making non-patterned hair loss challenging to treat, as well as frustrating and troubling to those suffering from it. Learning to identify the various characteristics of non-patterned loss can lead to a quicker diagnosis and effective treatment.

As cited by WebMD, heredity accounts for 95 percent of all the cases of alopecia (baldness) in the United States. The remaining five percent can be due to a number of factors, including:

Diet – Unusually high levels of vitamin A or low levels of iron or protein. Iron is essential for the production of hair protein.

Illness – Thyroid disease, severe infection or flu.

Medications – Drugs used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), heart problems, depression or gout; birth control pills.

Hormonal imbalances – Changes in female hormone levels during pregnancy or menopause. Also, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can cause hair loss by increasing levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Stress – One of the most common causes of non-patterned hair loss, stress can trigger production of higher androgen levels. Androgens can attack the hair growth cycle and shorten it, which can cause hair loss.

Recognizing Alopecia Areata

Often mistaken as stress-related hair loss, alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack hair follicles. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), alopecia areata can cause different types of hair loss: alopecia areata (hair loss in patches), alopecia totalis (total hair loss on the scalp) and alopecia universalis (hair loss on the entire body).

The AAD notes that alopecia areata in all of its variations is not due to nerves, and most often occurs in otherwise healthy people. Hair typically grows back, but can fall out again.

The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) is a resource for those living with this condition. The NAAF states that although there are currently no treatments that work for everyone, some are effective for some people, depending on which type of alopecia areata is involved, the patient’s age and the extent of hair loss.

The main goals of treatment are to block the immune system’s attack and/or to stimulate hair regrowth. According to the NAAF, this can be effective, especially for those with less than 50 percent hair loss. For those with greater than 50 percent loss, oral and topical medications are available, as well as phototherapy (light treatments).

Recognizing Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs over time. It is caused by putting the hair under constant strain or tension, and usually results from wearing hair in very tight ponytails, pigtails, tight braids or cornrows. As more hair falls out, sufferers tend to attempt to mask the issue through weaves and hair extensions – which sets up a vicious cycle that worsens the condition.

This was the case with J.D. – a patient of Dr. Marco Barusco who sought treatment for her traction alopecia, made worse by the weaves she used to create the appearance of a full head of hair. In her job as a pharmaceutical representative, presenting a polished, professional image is essential, which led J.D. to research hair restoration specialists before scheduling an appointment at Tempus Hair Restoration. After a successful treatment program, J.D. is now proud to let her natural hair represent her self-confidence to the world. And she is not wearing tight ponytails anymore.

Treatments For Non-Patterned Hair Loss

Unlike male and female pattern baldness, the cause of each individual case of non-patterned hair loss is different. A diagnosis by a licensed physician who has experience with hair loss needs to be made in order for a course of treatment to be planned. While you may suspect a cause, attempting to treat non-patterned hair loss without a diagnosis can make the condition worse – or at the very least, delay effective treatment and the desired outcome of healthy hair.

Dr. Barusco has over 20 years of experience treating all types of hair loss – including non-patterned. His professional credentials include: Diplomate and Past President (2017) of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery; Assistant Professor of Surgery – University of Central Florida College of Medicine; Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS).

We offer the latest, most advanced treatments available for non-patterned hair loss. Our blog post, “Non-surgical Treatments for Hair Restoration,” discusses prescription medications and other treatments our practice utilizes, depending upon the individual patient’s case.

If you are suffering with non-patterned hair loss, schedule a free consultation with Dr. Barusco. Unlike many other hair restoration practices, Dr. Barusco conducts all consultations (both in-office and virtually) himself, and performs all procedures.

Should you be reading this article outside of the areas served by our 14 offices throughout Florida, we can make arrangements for a virtual consultation with Dr. Barusco. For your convenience, consultations are offered in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Dr. Barusco and our staff look forward to meeting you, and helping you get the right treatment for your type of hair loss.

Why Do Hair Transplants Go Wrong?

General, Surgery

Why Do Hair Transplants Go Wrong?

Hair plays a major role in one’s self-esteem. During various periods throughout history, elaborate wigs were signs of status and wealth – for obvious reasons. Today, instead of covering hair loss with a full or partial hairpiece, hair transplant surgery is readily available and within the economic reach of many. However, such availability comes at a high price for those who make the wrong choice in the doctor who performs the procedure, ranging from severe scarring to unnatural growth patterns of new hair.

Many factors can contribute to bad hair transplants. The following are the most prevalent.

Inexperienced Surgeons Can Cause Errors

The main reason for an unsuccessful hair transplant is selecting an unqualified doctor. Many are not certified by the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. Such patients face the risks of surgical complications, scarring and infections. Many patients choose a doctor based on their advertising campaign, extravagant promises of results or low cost (or any or all of these). Also, at many clinics, the doctor (who may not even be on the premises at the time of surgery) allows technicians to harvest grafts or perform other procedures for which they have no medical qualifications.

Dr. Marco Barusco – founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration – is a board-certified surgeon who is internationally recognized as a leader in hair restoration. His many credentials include: Diplomate and Past President (2017) of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery; Assistant Professor of Surgery – University of Central Florida College of Medicine; Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). He most recently received American Registry’s America’s Most Honored Professionals 2018 award and was recognized as being in the top one-percent of this distinguished group.

One of the most important stages of a hair restoration process is graft placement, as it determines the outcome of the final appearance of the patient. If this stage does not take place properly, the procedure will fail. It is easier for inexperienced doctors to make mistakes when trying to determine the safe donor site located on the back of the patient’s head, where the healthy follicles are extracted. Overharvesting could cause significant damage in the donor zone and result in a catastrophic outcome.

Hair Loss Types

Not knowing which hair transplant procedure is best for your type of hair loss could lead to disaster. Topics such as surgical treatments and post-operative stages are important to discuss with your surgeon prior to undergoing treatment. A surgeon with limited experience may only perform the procedure he is familiar with, assembly line-style, whether or not it is right for you. In addition, less experienced surgeons are often not up-to-date with newer (yet clinically proven) technologies and surgical procedures that could achieve superior results.

Sometimes, the degree of hair loss may not be enough for the patient to be an appropriate candidate for hair transplant surgery, yet recommended for the procedure. When asked about consulting young patients (early 20s) suffering from hair loss, Dr. Barusco explained: “They’re usually not the best candidates for surgery because of the potential for progression of hair loss. My approach with the young patients is to delay surgery, bring force to medical therapy, keep following them over a year, two, five, ten years until I think they’re ready for the procedure.” Timing is crucial. If you don’t seek the procedure at the right stage of your hair loss, it could result in a very odd-looking appearance.

Causes of Hair Loss

Another factor in determining the need for hair restoration surgery is medical condition. Hair loss may be due to many non-hereditary elements, such as stress, weight loss or hormonal imbalance. In such cases, hair loss is usually temporary. A poorly qualified doctor or unqualified clinician may misdiagnose a non-hereditary cause and perform a transplant. An unethical doctor may recognize the cause, but perform the procedure anyway.

Can a Bad Hair Transplant Be Fixed?

Every patient who undergoes any type of medical treatment is unique, and may have different results. Dr. Barusco has met several patients who have dealt with poor outcomes. When asked about how he approaches this situation, he said: “Sometimes I can help them, but sometimes I can’t. A bad liposuction or a bad breast surgery can at least be hidden from view. A bad hair transplant cannot. And what is even worse, is that these patients are coming to me not only with poor results on their hairline, but also terrible scarring and thinning in their donor hair (the limited supply of permanent hair we use for transplants) caused by taking too many hair incisions that are larger than they should be.”

At Tempus Hair Restoration, Dr. Barusco performs every procedure himself. Our team pays great attention to your emotional well-being and follows up with every step of the procedure to ensure you are well-informed and directed in the right path. Our consultation is free. Dr. Barusco will discuss the different treatments available and will recommend the one that will work best for you. Depending on the cause of your hair loss, a non-surgical treatment course could be successful.

The pain, scarring, emotional distress and considerable additional expense of a bad hair transplant can be avoided by performing due diligence in the process of selecting a surgeon. Check credentials with professional accreditation organizations, such as those listed in the fourth paragraph of this article. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the consultation – and make sure your consultation is with the surgeon, not a salesperson. ISHRS provides an excellent list of questions to bring up, including: Who will be involved in performing my surgery, what role will they play, and what is their education, training, licensure, and experience performing hair restoration surgery?

Choose your surgeon carefully based on experience, results and integrity. Dr. Barusco’s long list of accomplishments, his notable artistic ability and his successful surgical team make Tempus Hair Restoration a renowned practice. Dr. Barusco also conducts virtual consultations for those who can’t travel to one of our 14 Florida locations, and our office will arrange travel and accommodations for out-of-area patients. We invite you to learn more about our procedures, then contact us to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Barusco. We look forward to meeting you and discussing your options.

No More Pencils – Your Guide to Eyebrow Transplants

Facial Hair Transplants, General

Full, well-shaped eyebrows are highly desired among women today. The “Instagram brow” popularized on social media by such celebrities as Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner has achieved aspirational status, setting an aesthetic standard that many attempt to achieve through cosmetic means. With so much emphasis on eyebrows, an increasing number of people – including men – consider them important to self-esteem. For those experiencing thinning brows for such reasons as over plucking or genetics, an eyebrow transplant is a solution that can provide permanent, natural-looking results.
 

Eyebrow Transplants vs. Tattoos, Tweezing, Topicals

Ironically, beauty standards of previous decades favored a narrower brow line, resulting in overly tweezed eyebrows – which eventually shows up as thinning areas and bald spots. Corrections such as cosmetics or “permanent makeup” tattoos have drawbacks. Eyebrow pencils, powders and gels must be applied at least once daily, and their results largely depend upon the user’s artistic talent. Bad brow days are perhaps even more prevalent than bad hair days. Tattoos do not replicate the look of individual brow hairs, and eventually fade, creating a blotchy, even more artificial effect. Eyebrow transplantation offers a pleasing, natural-appearing restoration that signals youthfulness.

Increasing awareness of eyebrow transplantation has, in turn, led to the need to educate potential candidates about the procedure – and the credentials to look for when selecting a surgeon.
 

The Eyebrow Transplantation Procedure

At Tempus Hair Restoration, the extent of restoration depends upon the patient’s goals – whether to conceal a scar or achieve full restoration of both brows. In the case of a complete restoration, Dr. Marco Barusco – founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration –  works with the patient to recreate the eyebrow in a natural contour, outlining the eyebrow area to complement the natural symmetry of the face.

Hair Transplant Near Me, Florida Hair Doctor, Eyebrow Replacement, Hair Loss Treatments

During the consultation, Dr. Barusco determines what transplantation method is better for the patient based on the patient’s hair type. Donor hairs are typically removed from toward the neck – where the hair quality is more compatible to facial hair. Grafts are carefully selected to achieve the appearance of natural eyebrow hair once transplanted. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, after which the patient can resume normal activities apart from post-surgical instructions regarding care of the donor and recipient sites. New growth typically becomes more dense than the hair in the original transplant grafts.
 

Experience Makes the Difference

Because eyebrow transplantation is a relatively new procedure, those considering it need to perform their due diligence. Research the qualifications and experience of those you contact for a consultation. The precision necessary to achieve the best possible aesthetic results depends upon the experience and skill of the surgeon (who should be performing the procedure, rather than an assistant or technician). The disclaimer “under the medical direction of” used by many clinics should be a red flag to potential patients that someone other than a surgeon will be performing this exacting procedure.

Dr. Barusco is a board-certified surgeon who is internationally recognized as a leader in hair restoration. His many other credentials include: Diplomate and Past President (2017) of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery; Assistant Professor of Surgery – University of Central Florida College of Medicine; Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Dr. Barusco conducts all consultations (both in-office and virtually – via Skype chat) and performs all hair transplantation procedures.

At Tempus Hair Restoration, we offer the most advanced technology and the highest level of artistry in our hair restoration treatments. We invite you to schedule a free consultation to discuss your goals and learn about the options we can provide.

Hair Restoration Scams: Beware of 21st Century Snake Oil

General

Unfortunately, bogus hair loss “remedies” are more popular than ever.

The battle against baldness is almost as long as history itself. The Ebers Papyrus – a medical text from 1550 B.C.E. – offers a number of recommended cures for ancient Egyptians suffering from hair loss. Suggestions include a mixture of fats from a hippopotamus, crocodile, tomcat, snake and ibex. While such a concoction now strikes us as obviously ineffective, all too many people are still willing to put their faith – and money – into modern-day “snake oil” hair restoration remedies that range from useless to harmful. With proven, effective treatments – both surgical and non-surgical – readily available, Dr. Marco Barusco and our team at Tempus Hair Restoration want consumers to recognize bogus products and dubious procedures.

Hair Loss Scams

Just as is the case with many other medical conditions, bogus products claiming to prevent baldness or restore hair aggressively market to susceptible people through online advertising, multi-level marketing (MLM) companies, radio ads, late-night infomercials and other media. Such products either use medical-sounding language or sell themselves as a “natural” remedy.

Hair loss restoration researchers have concluded that the leading cause of baldness for men is the male sex hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone). This hormone has been linked to hair loss in women, as well. DHT prevents the follicles in the scalp from promoting hair growth by attaching itself to the follicles’ receptor cells and inhibiting any proteins, vitamins and minerals needed for their survival.

Those who have a genetic tendency for hair loss are more sensitive to the effects of DHT. The only way to prevent or restore hair loss is to block this hormone. Scam marketers often dance around the subject by mentioning DHT, but refrain from stating clearly that their product efficiently blocks this hormone. The FDA-approved prescription medications that actually are effective in blocking DHT will be covered later in this post.

To avoid regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), marketers of these bogus products identify them as food or nutritional supplements, carefully choosing their words to avoid making an outright claim of medical results. These deceptive marketers often use phony testimonials and product reviews, all of which are impossible to verify.

Consumers are often confused by such slick sales methods, not only wasting money, but valuable time. The longer that hair loss goes untreated, the chances for success diminish.

How to Know When it’s a Hoax

One big red flag signaling a scam product is overselling and/or guaranteeing hair growth. If it promises “amazing” and “quick” results, be suspicious. Legitimate non-surgical treatments produce gradual results, depending upon the individual. Again, consulting with a hair restoration specialist should set realistic expectations about the results that a particular treatment can achieve for you.

What Does Work?

Medical hair growth treatments help stabilize hair loss and maintain hairs that would otherwise be lost. The following are FDA-approved medications proven to be effective.

Minoxidil – Minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) is a medication used for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) treatments and hair growth in women with thinning hair.

 It is in a class of drugs known as vasodilators. By widening the blood vessels, minoxidil  allows more blood and oxygen to reach the follicles, causing those in the telogen phase (the resting phase of the hair growth cycle), to shed. They are replaced by thicker hairs in the new anagen phase (the active growth phase of hair follicles). Rogaine is available over-the-counter. Dr. Barusco typically recommends the foam option, which must be done at a 5% concentration in order to assist in blocking DHT. In order for this medication to keep supporting hair growth, it should be used continuously.

 

Finasteride (brand name Propecia) – This is a prescription tablet used to block DHT and treat hair loss for men only. A 1 mg dose of finasteride can lower DHT levels by 60% if taken daily, and slows down hair loss as long as it is taken continuously. The American Hair Loss Association recognizes finasteride as the leading non-surgical hair loss treatment for men.

Inform Yourself

Knowledge is power. Being an informed consumer will allow you to tell the difference between science and pseudo-science, and seek legitimate treatment for your hair loss before it’s too late to reverse or restore. Choose your surgeon carefully based on experience, results and professional integrity.

Dr. Barusco is a board-certified surgeon who is internationally recognized as a leader in hair restoration. His many other credentials include: Diplomate and Past President (2017) of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery; Assistant Professor of Surgery – University of Central Florida College of Medicine; Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Dr. Barusco conducts all consultations (both in-office and virtually) and performs all hair transplantation procedures.

Our team pays great attention to your emotional being and follows up with every step of the procedure to ensure that you are well-informed and directed in the right path. Our consultation is free. Dr. Barusco will discuss the treatments available and recommend the one most appropriate for your type of hair loss. Contact us to learn your options.

An Affordable Hair Transplant that Doesn’t Sacrifice Quality

Male Hair Restoration, Surgery

Sufferers of hair loss understand that it can have a big impact on one’s self-esteem, especially at a younger age. Hair is often perceived as a sign of youth, beauty, and virility. When someone loses it, they may feel like they have had many aspects of their lives taken from them.

That can in turn interfere with their work performance, personality, and charisma, affecting their social and professional lives. Despite all of these psychological effects, insurance companies still see hair restoration as a “cosmetic procedure.” That means they will not cover it.

While doing your research in this procedure and the doctors who perform it, you may be tempted to look for a bargain and go with someone who has less experience or who does not perform only hair restoration. While the procedure may seem simple enough, (it isn’t like they’re operating on your brain), there are still plenty of things that can go wrong; you can avoid them with a more skilled surgeon. Poorly performed hair transplants can lead to infection, the hair may grow properly, or the results may not look natural. Dr. Barusco has met many patients who have suffered from these complications.

“Sometimes I can help them, but sometimes I can’t. A bad liposuction or a bad breast surgery can at least be hidden from view. A bad hair transplant cannot. And what is even worse, is that these patients are coming to me not only with poor results on their hairline, but also terrible scarring and thinning of their donor hair (the limited supply of permanent hair we use for transplants) caused by taking too many hairs with incisions that are larger than they should be.”

That is why, as in any procedure, you want to look for someone who has experience, quality, and artistic ability, who knows what can go wrong and how to avoid it.

Dr. Barusco is an internationally recognized surgeon, with over 20 years of experience in hair restoration procedures. Elected as the President of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery in 2017, he focuses on innovative procedures with natural-looking results. He has written chapters in multiple textbooks on the Tempus No-Shave FUE, the Crown-Hatching Technique that he created and on complications in hair transplantation.

But with an experienced surgeon such as Dr. Barusco, you may be concerned about costs. First, every consultation is performed by Dr. Barusco and it is free. There are no fees for speaking with us. After Dr. Barusco makes an individualized recommendation based on your situation and goals, you will meet with one of our patient educators, who will discuss the costs of what Dr. Barusco has prescribed. If you need to finance the procedure, we offer special 6 and 12-month financing plans with no interest. We are very transparent on the cost of our services, and what you see on the bill is what you will pay in the end. And remember, this isn’t a frivolous purchase; it is a lifetime investment. You will keep this hair for life.

At Tempus, we make our procedures affordable without compromising our quality. We aren’t a one-stop shop for cosmetic surgeries. We focus on hair restoration alone, because that is an important issue that deserves undivided attention. We want to help you get your life back. So schedule your free consultation today, and let’s talk about how we can help.

Self-Worth vs. Vanity – How Hair Transplants Affect Other Areas of Your Life

Male Hair Restoration

There is a common misconception that ties cosmetic surgery to vanity – that anyone who gets a hair transplant is only concerned about their own image. The truth is much more complicated. Losing one’s hair can be detrimental to self-esteem, and, in turn, affect many aspects of life. It may even hold a person back from being happy.

Look at Joe, one of our patients. After his divorce, he started thinking less of himself. “I had gained weight and lost all desire to start over,” he said. “My hair was receding, which made everything else worse.” Stress and an individual’s mental state have been shown to be a cause of hair loss. When this happens, a person’s self-esteem can become even worse. Said Joe, “Each day that passed it was harder and harder to look in the mirror and gain the motivation to get my life together.”

Restoring hair isn’t about some desire to be sexy, but rather to help one’s self-worth – as Joe experienced after his procedure. “My confidence definitely increased as the compliments came rolling in. I joined a gym and felt determined again … I looked in the mirror and finally feel happy with who is looking back.”

Dr. Barusco understands what hair loss can do to someone. After losing her husband and going through chemotherapy, Carol’s hair began to thin out. Trying to get her life back on track, she went to Dr. Barusco for a consultation. Carol said she “… immediately felt a warmth and sincerity from [him]. He truly understands the emotional impact hair loss can cause on someone, and treated me as his patient rather than a dollar sign.”

He made sure Carol felt comfortable in the whole process, and explained exactly what would happen. Since then, she said, “My results have been amazing and I feel great about myself again. It truly has changed my life.”

Hair loss can be so destructive to one’s confidence, they feel the need to hide. Another of Dr. Barusco’s patients, J.D., battled Traction Alopecia for some time. This condition is a type of hair loss that happens over time. It’s caused by putting the hair under constant strain or tension, and usually results from wearing hair in very tight ponytails, pigtails, tight braids or cornrows. J.D. used weaves, wigs and extensions to cover and mask the issue – which, in turn, caused even more hair loss.

J.D. works as a pharmaceutical representative, a profession that requires confidence when visiting multiple physician offices on a daily basis. “My results have been amazing and speak for themselves,” she said. It truly was the best decision I have ever made. I waited a long time in order to find the right person to do this. I am now wearing my natural hair and feel so confident. I have now opened my own business and living my best life.”

Joe, Carol, and J.D. all suffered from hair loss, and it was important to their self-worth that they could recover it. Since their procedure, each has gone on to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. If you are suffering from hair loss, don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation and learn what you have to do to get your life back.