While hair transplant procedures have become more technically advanced to provide superior aesthetic results – as well as less patient downtime – a safe and non-surgical treatment offers the advantage of stimulating healthy new hair growth, rather than working within the limits of the patient’s existing hair.
This therapeutic option for hair regeneration – which is currently under research at Tempus Hair Restoration – utilizes the stromal vascular fraction of subcutaneous adipose (fat) tissue, and the growth factors they secrete. In plain language, the treatment uses the patient’s own fat, harvested from just under the skin through a very thin liposuction cannula, with no stitches necessary. The fat is then concentrated and purified in a centrifuge. It is then combined with plasma obtained from the patient’s blood, then injected into the scalp. Results may be seen in three to four months, with 12 months typical to achieve the full benefit.
Using adipose tissue to stimulate hair restoration
Although the word “fat” has the inaccurate connotation of being inert, adipose tissue is a biologically active tissue that can stimulate the growth cycle of scalp hair. This therapy helps repair damaged hair follicles, stimulating stronger, thicker growth.
Who is a candidate for adipose tissue and growth factor therapy?
One of the exciting aspects of this treatment is that it is suitable for men and women – as well as young adults, who typically are not good candidates for a hair transplant. The reason is that their hair loss is still in the early stages, which is the ideal time for this treatment. Patients with more advanced hair loss will likely not benefit from the cellular treatment. For them, other treatments are available. Adipose tissue/growth factor treatment permits earlier intervention with a positive outcome, as stronger hair returns in the areas that are thinning, improving volume and scalp coverage.
Another advantage is that this therapy can be administered as either a stand-alone treatment, or in conjunction with a hair transplant. In the latter situation, a larger area of scalp hair can be restored, and achieve the desired aesthetic effect of a natural full head of healthy hair. The treatment may improve healing of the surgical areas and growth of the transplanted hairs, in addition to helping the native hairs that the patient still has, but that are thinning. Dr. Barusco is currently designing a study to look into the influence of these adipose cells in wound healing and hair survival after a hair transplant procedure.
Preliminary data suggests that this therapy is most successful when combined with other non-surgical treatments, such as Finasteride, Minoxidil and laser therapy. Because each case of hair loss is different, Dr. Barusco will determine the best course of treatment during the initial consultation.
What types of hair loss does adipose tissue and growth factor treat?
This therapy may be appropriate for those dealing with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) – otherwise known as common male pattern baldness (MPB) – and female pattern hair loss (FPHL). Because MPB and FPHL account for more than 95 percent of hair loss cases, the treatment may provide an excellent option for the majority of those affected.
Results vary from patient to patient – and, of course, there are no guarantees with any medical treatment. However, patients in the study regularly report fuller, thicker hair a few months after treatment. These changes in the hair are also measured by Dr. Barusco and his team during the follow-up visits.
Not all adipose tissue and growth factor therapies are the same
Dr. Barusco is a leader in this field of treatment, with Tempus Hair Restoration being the first dedicated hair restoration practice in Florida to offer it. His treatment uses the most advanced technology available for the processing of adipose tissue and growth factors – the treatment is done under an investigative study registered with the FDA and overseen by an independent Ethics Committee or Institutional Review Board. As such, Dr. Barusco’s treatment protocol exceeds industry standards. The strict protocols we follow ensure that our patients receive the safest, highest quality treatment available.
Dr. Barusco and the STRAAND Study – researching the next generation of treatment
Dr. Barusco is one of four hair restoration surgeons nationwide on the research team for the STRAAND clinical trials. This study is investigating this breakthrough treatment.
The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy (effectiveness) of cell-enriched Biocellular Regenerative Therapy. It is supervised by an independent ethics board, which is a requirement for clinical studies in order to protect patients against unethical practices.
The STRAAND Study is currently accepting candidates to participate in clinical trials. Eligible prospective candidates must have a diagnosis of AGA or FPHL. You can learn the details about this important study – including eligibility requirements – by clicking here to visit its website.
Learn the truth about the STRAAND Study research team – beware of false claims!
Dr. Barusco is the only hair restoration surgeon in Florida who is on the STRAAND Study research team. Unfortunately, other doctors are falsely claiming to be on the research team or making misleading allusions that may confuse those seeking information about the STRAAND Study. Our practice has had to take legal action against one such doctor, while another is currently promoting his participation in a different similar study without identifying it by name – creating possible confusion between that particular study and the STRAAND Study.
This same doctor refers to “… an FDA-approved study …” In fact, the FDA does not “approve” clinical trials. In addition, a link on this doctor’s website that is supposed to open the study’s official page instead leads to his practice’s blog. Being misleading is the same as being untruthful.
For the record, the treatment in the STRAAND Study is being studied under an Investigational New Drug Application (IND), which is a clinical investigation plan submitted and allowed to proceed by the FDA.
Knowledge is power – make an informed decision
If you think you may be a candidate for adipose tissue and growth factor treatment, contact us to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Barusco. If you’re interested in participating in the STRAAND Study, visit the study’s official website, read the eligibility requirements and – if you meet the criteria – fill out and submit the online form. We are here to answer your questions and provide the highest level of care for every patient, always with your health, safety and best possible outcome our primary priorities.