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Dr. Barusco’s Answers to Five Hair Restoration Questions

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Dr. Barusco’s Answers to Five Hair Restoration Questions

Surgery,

If you have questions about hair restoration procedures, Dr. Marco Barusco—Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration—has answers! As a leading surgeon in this field, Dr. Barusco is a vocal advocate for consumer education, providing free resources for all who want to learn about hair transplants to get the objective information they need in order to make an informed decision.

Toward this end, Dr. Barusco’s YouTube channel—Hair Loss Medical Advice—features videos in which he answers viewers’ questions. We’ve chosen five that focus on issues that may not immediately come to mind when thinking about hair transplantation, but are certainly worth addressing! Read, watch and learn!

  1. How many hair grafts are necessary to restore a hairline?

The viewer who sent this question provided three photos of his hairline, showing temporal recession on both sides. He would learn that there is no across-the-board number. The circumstances the viewer outlined in his question helped determine Dr. Barusco’s response. For example, the viewer reported that he had been using finasteride with good results, then added oral minoxidil, also with good results. He discontinued use of both medications for one month, which caused a noticeable regression—and now seeks a surgical solution.

“Let’s break this down into two parts,” said Dr. Barusco. “First, medical therapy for hair loss is like anything else. You have to do it consistently, or the hair will continue to be lost over time, little by little.

“Regarding a transplant, he seems to be a good candidate. But I don’t know his age, and I haven’t seen his donor zone [the back of the head, where hair grafts are harvested for transplantation]. If he came to me for a consultation, we would talk about the need to be consistent with medical therapy to prevent further hair loss. Based on what I see here [in the photos], I would recommend an FUE procedure using a few hundred grafts—somewhere around 800 to 1,000 follicular units.”

Click here to watch the video.

  1. Can hair be successfully transplanted into a congenital bald spot?

This question came from a 22-year-old man who has a small area on his right temple on which hair has never grown. Being self-conscious about this irregular bald spot, he asked Dr. Barusco if a hair transplant would be effective and look like natural growth. Moreover, if he has a hair transplant in that area, will the new growth create an odd effect should his hairline start to recede?

“These are both good questions,” said Dr. Barusco. “People can have these bald/thin spots on their scalp where they never had hair. Hair transplants can also be done to cover scars from surgery, accidents, burns, etc. A consultation is required to make sure the hair and scalp are healthy. Assuming they are, the area marked can be transplanted with good results. If you lose hair in the future, this area should continue to look natural, though you may have to transplant the other side to match if your sides recede too much. You may also try medications to prevent hair from thinning.”

Click here to watch the video.

  1. Is fine-caliber hair good for hair transplantation?

A young woman asked Dr. Barusco if she was a good candidate for a hair transplant, as she has hairline recession at the temples.

“It makes my forehead look huge, and it makes me look slightly manly and bald,” she wrote. Her other concern was that her hair is too fine to be transplanted to create the desired appearance of fullness.

Dr. Barusco’s positive reply hopefully gave the viewer an optimistic boost.

“Yes. Fine caliber hair can be used for hair transplantation. In your situation specifically, fine hairs are actually great, since they will provide very soft, natural results for your temples. The only negative with fine caliber hairs is that they don’t have as much mass, so to create the appearance of fullness, more hairs are needed in comparison with coarse caliber hairs, which can provide more density. The flip side of this is that fine caliber hairs look more natural easier with a hair transplant in comparison with coarse hairs, which can be more obvious if not transplanted with perfect technique.”

Click here to watch the video.

  1. Is it possible to fix a cowlick with a hair transplant?

A viewer who did not identify themselves expressed frustration with a cowlick located in an area that made hairstyling difficult, asking Dr. Barusco if a hair transplant could lick the cowlick for good!

“Cowlicks are features that many people have in their hair,” Dr. Barusco replied. “Depending on the location and number, they can make it challenging to style the hair. But hair transplants should not be used to try to correct a cowlick, particularly if there is no hair loss. The transplant itself can cause hair loss, and if hairs are placed in opposing angles and directions in relation to the cowlick, it can exacerbate the inability to style.”

Click here to watch the video.

  1. What can be done to correct a hair transplant that resulted in different hair densities in the temple area?

Dr. Barusco often corrects the results of botched hair transplants performed by surgeons or—inexcusably—non-medical technicians who lack the experience, skill and/or licensure to achieve an aesthetically pleasing effect of natural growth. Dr. Barusco addressed a male viewer who sent photos of his area of concern, which showed incorrect selection and placement of hair grafts in the temporal point—thereby creating an inconsistent appearance.

Fortunately, Dr. Barusco determined that the transplant could be corrected.

“Looking closer at the picture, it appears to me that hair grafts have been placed in your temporal point. I can see that some 2-hair follicular units were placed in that area, and that the transplanted area is sharply demarcated. It should have been feathered a little more. But this can be corrected by maybe harvesting and moving some of these grafts, and by adding a few more single hair grafts to this area. Also, medications may help.”

Click here to watch the video.

The Ultimate Answer to Your Hair Restoration Questions: Choose Your Surgeon Wisely!

Dr. Barusco welcomes questions for Hair Loss Medical Advice. Of course, he also welcomes anyone who wants to explore their hair restoration options to schedule an in-office or virtual consultation! Consultations are free, and there is no pressure to schedule a procedure.

Contact us to schedule your consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home—or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

The Handbook to Hair Restoration Surgery

Surgery,

Getting a hair transplant is an important decision. Being a savvy consumer, you’re doing your due diligence by researching online about various procedures and clinics. Hopefully, you won’t base your decision solely upon a slick ad campaign, or the promise of a bargain price—especially at a foreign black market clinic. However, you’ve probably never had a hair transplant before. Without a basis of comparison or experience, it can be hard to judge the quality of the information you’re coming across.

If you’re thinking that it would be helpful to have a handbook to guide you on this all-important first step on your hair restoration journey, our Tempus Hair Restoration team has thought the same. We present the following as a comprehensive compilation of everything you need to know in order to make a well-informed decision about choosing a hair restoration surgeon who is worthy of your trust.

How to Find a Reputable Hair Transplant Surgeon

An excellent starting point is the website of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS). This is a global non-profit medical association comprised of over 1,200 members representing 70 countries, dedicated to promoting the highest standards of medical practice and medical ethics. The leading authority on hair loss treatment and restoration, the ISHRS offers objective, unbiased information, and does not accept advertising or affiliate links.

The ISHRS website provides free resources for consumers—such as its Find a Doctor directory. This is maintained and updated with the name, location, contact information and link to the ISHRS member page of each doctor. The ISHRS does not charge doctors to be included in the directory, nor does it promote individual doctors.

Dr. Marco Barusco—Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration—is a Fellow of the ISHRS. This is a distinction that is only given to those who achieve certain landmarks on teaching and leadership. Currently, fewer than 10% of the ISHRS members are Fellows.

Whether or not you use the ISHRS Find a Doctor directory, you need to know about the education, training, credentials and experience that each surgeon you’re researching has in the field of hair restoration. Start this process by visiting the website of the surgeons you’re considering. Some of the following points should be in the doctor’s biography or elsewhere on the website:

Training and Credentials

  • From what medical school did the physician receive his/her M.D. (Doctor of medicine, allopathic medical), D.O. (Doctor of osteopathic medicine) or M.B.B.S. (Bachelor of medicine, bachelor of surgery, also abbreviated as, M.B.Ch.B.) degree?
  • What year did he/she receive the medical degree?
  • When was the physician licensed to practice medicine? Is he/she licensed to practice medicine in your state in which the treatment will take place?
  • Where (hospital or medical center) did the physician complete his/her internship and residency training?
  • Did the physician have additional training in a medical or surgical specialty after completing residency?
  • Is the physician board certified or a diplomate of a legitimate certifying board? Learn more about what this means.
  • Does the physician hold membership in their related specialty professional society? For hair restoration surgery, this is the ISHRS. Do they attend scientific conferences and workshops? Membership and activity in such societies is not essential, but it is an additional indication of commitment and advanced training.

Scheduling a Consultation with a Hair Transplant Surgeon

Once you’ve found a surgeon who meets your criteria, schedule a consultation­—either in-office or virtual. This is a critical part of the process, as you’ll be able to ask questions and better evaluate the surgeon’s ability to perform the procedure. This is particularly important if you have a special circumstance—such as scarring that you want the hair transplant to conceal. Not every surgeon has the technical skill or experience to do so successfully.

A consultation also allows you to determine how well you and the surgeon communicate. A doctor can have all the right qualifications, but if you don’t feel that he/she connects with you, consider it a sign to continue your search. As they say, trust your “gut.”

But first, be sure that you’ll be talking to the surgeon who will be performing your procedure—not a salesperson or medical technician. If you’re told the doctor cannot or will not meet with you, don’t schedule the consultation—or leave if you’re already in the office and suddenly been informed you’ll be seen by someone else, instead. This is a red flag that should not be ignored!

Questions a Hair Transplant Surgeon Should Ask You

Hair loss is a medical condition, the cause of which requires a diagnosis in order to determine the right procedure—or even if you are an appropriate candidate for surgery. You shouldn’t be surprised that a good hair transplant surgeon will take your medical history. In fact, you should expect it! The following are questions that Dr. Barusco asks his prospective patients during consultation:

Hair loss history—Asking about when you started noticing your hair loss, which areas of your scalp were first affected, how the loss is progressing, etc., provides important information that can help the doctor start to form a complete picture of the cause and treatment options for your individual case. Even if you think a detail may be insignificant, mention it to the doctor.

Your family history of hair loss—You should be asked if your immediate family members (including females) had/have hair loss, and if so, what kind. How did it start and progress over time? This is important in order for the surgeon to provide the right diagnosis.

Your medical history—The doctor should ask for a detailed medical history. Such conditions as diabetes, heart or thyroid disease—and the medications you take for them—can affect or accelerate hair loss.

Your past and current medications—Some prescription medications can cause hair loss.

Your allergy history—Your doctor should ask if you are allergic to any medications or have had an allergic reaction to anesthesia. Knowing if this has occurred is important in prescribing an alternative medication.

Your surgical history—Your doctor should ask if you’ve had surgery of any type. Again, this can provide additional information about a medical condition that could be relevant to your hair loss, as well as your ability to tolerate anesthesia.

A timeline of your hair loss—A good hair restoration surgeon should start creating a timeline of your hair loss based upon all of the previous information he/she has gathered from your answers. A prescription medication you started five years ago may coincide with the time you noticed your hair loss was becoming worse. Such a timeline would provide evidence that the medication could be the cause.

During the consultation, the surgeon should also examine your scalp. If the consultation is in-office, he/she should look for miniaturization of the hair follicles, patchy areas, redness/inflammation, swelling, dandruff and skin cancer. The doctor should also have such tools as a magnification camera. If the consultation is virtual, you should be asked to take pictures of your scalp with a smartphone. An examination of your scalp is necessary for an accurate diagnosis of the cause of your hair loss. If the doctor doesn’t take this basic step, continue your search.

Finally, the surgeon should ask about your hair restoration goals. Dr. Barusco has had patients who wanted hair on areas of the scalp that he considered secondary—that is, not as obvious as the hairline—yet that was the area on which the patient wanted to see hair growth. Learning what the patient wants is an important part of the consultation. Moreover, an ethical surgeon will tell you if your expectations aren’t realistic—for example, if you want the volume and/or hairline you had at age 18.

Questions to Ask a Hair Restoration Surgeon During Your Consultation

A good consultation is a two-way process. The following are key questions you should ask the surgeon:

  • How long have you been doing surgical hair restoration procedures?
  • How many hair restoration procedures have you performed?
  • How many types of procedures do you perform on a regular basis? The answer can reveal the surgeon’s limitations. Some perform only one or two types of procedures. This means the surgeon may not be proficient at the others, and can’t (or won’t) advise you if a different procedure would be more appropriate for your individual case. Moreover, if the surgeon only performs the Follicular Unit Excision (FUE), a robotic device may be used. The following paragraph addresses the risks involved.
  • How many hair restoration procedures do you perform per month? A busy practice can be one indication that a surgeon is skilled and well-respected by patients.
  • Is hair restoration surgery your only practice, or do you perform other types of cosmetic surgery?
  • Will you provide names of patients who are willing to be references?

It is important to understand that unqualified, non-medical technicians and other staff are increasingly performing hair transplant surgery using robotic devices to harvest and implant hair follicles. The practice is becoming so prevalent, that consumers have come to accept this as a legitimate situation—which it is definitely not. On its Consumer Advocacy page, the ISHRS urges potential patients to ask the following questions during consultation, as well as questions regarding costs, risks, and short and long-term benefits and planning:

  • Who will evaluate my hair loss and recommend a course of treatment? What is their education, training, licensure, and experience in treating hair loss? Only physicians, Physician’s Assistants and Nurse Practitioners are legally allowed to diagnose a patient and to recommend medical treatments. Otherwise, the person recommending procedures and/or treatments is practicing medicine without a license, a felony crime in Florida and many other states.
  • 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?
  • Will anyone not allowed by the State Medical Board be making incisions or harvesting grafts during my surgery? If so, please identify this person, explain their specific role and why they are legally permitted to perform it.
  • Is everyone involved in my surgery covered by malpractice insurance?

During your consultation, the surgeon should answer all of your questions to your satisfaction, in a manner you understand. You should not feel that the surgeon is dismissing your concerns, or providing vague replies. Transparency is essential.

Other Ways to Tell if You’ve Found a Good Hair Restoration Surgeon

Assuming the consultation has gone well, here are other factors to look for in choosing a hair restoration surgeon:

Transparency about pricing—You should be told the cost of the procedure, with no “hidden” fees. Financing options—also without hidden fees—should be available.

A thorough discussion of your hair transplant plan—This should cover the type of procedure, as well as the amount of grafts to be harvested from the donor area and the distribution of grafts to be implanted to the recipient areas of your scalp. In explaining this, the surgeon should tell you that this plan is being made in anticipation of your next procedure. Hair loss will progress over time. A conscientious surgeon will plan to leave an adequate amount of donor hair for a subsequent transplant.

A discussion of possible risks—Your surgeon should disclose the risks of the procedure, including potential complications and side effects.

How to prepare for the day of surgery, and post-surgical care—You should receive printed instructions, but a good surgeon will discuss each point with you to be sure you understand, and to answer any questions you may have.

Post-surgery follow-up, and follow-up appointments—Your surgeon should call you soon after the procedure to make sure you’re comfortable and your immediate post-operative recovery is going as expected. You should also have your surgeon’s phone number in case of an urgent situation. You’ll be scheduled for follow-up appointments at certain intervals so the progress of your new growth can be monitored.

Knowledge is Power—Choose Your Surgeon Wisely!

Now that you have your Handbook to Hair Restoration Surgery, use your knowledge to choose your surgeon wisely! If this blog post is too long for you to print out and take to your consultation, our Hair Loss Consultation Checklist includes all of the important points to cover, in a convenient one-page format. Just click here to download.

We also invite you to visit Dr. Barusco’s YouTube channel, Hair Loss Medical Advice, where you can learn as he discusses such issues as the types and causes of hair loss, hair transplant procedures, and much more. And of course, our blog features informative posts, updated every month.

Ultimately, choose your surgeon 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. We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this important goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

Why You Should Avoid Practices That Don’t Specialize in Hair Restoration

Male Hair Restoration,

There is no shortage of clinics and medical practices that offer hair restoration. And it’s no wonder. Considering that hair transplants constitute a $53 billion dollar global market, the incentive to do so is great. However, if you’re considering a hair transplant, be careful about who you choose, and avoid practices that don’t specialize in hair restoration.

You may wonder why this would matter. After all, aren’t hair transplants a standardized surgical procedure? If a medical practice is offering them, shouldn’t the doctor be qualified to perform them safely and achieve the desired result? The answers may surprise you—and not in a pleasant way!

Not All Hair Transplants are Created Equal

As a consumer, all you know about hair transplant clinics and medical practices that offer them is likely through their advertising. Be it online or in print, of course, ads present these services in the best light—and always beneficial to the consumer. But if you’re looking for a bargain and/or are impressed by the use of high-tech robotic devices that claim to deliver a perfect outcome with a minimum of human intervention, there is much that you’re not being told.

The caution “consumer beware” should be your attitude in your response to advertising claims. If an ad for a clinic or practice that doesn’t specialize in hair transplantation gets your interest because of what seems to be a good price for a follicular unit extraction (FUE) procedure, you should ask yourself why this practice is now performing hair transplants, how long it’s been doing so, and who is doing the actual planning, harvesting and implantation of hair grafts—and what their qualifications are.

Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration—is a vocal advocate for consumer education. In his three-part YouTube podcast series—“The Current State of Hair Transplant Surgery”—Dr. Barusco provides his personal perspective on this situation. In part three of the series—“Do It Right or Don’t Do It At All”—Dr. Barusco talks with podcast host Peter Roman about how such cosmetic surgery practices came to add hair transplantation to their services.

Dr. Barusco reveals that while you might assume a physician or cosmetic surgeon reached this decision after a good deal of thought and additional training, such typically isn’t the case. Instead, the purchase of a robotic device prompted this new service. Get ready to have your eyes opened!

Says Dr. Barusco:

“What they [the robotic device manufacturer] do is go to a plastic surgery conference and buy an exhibitor’s space and set up with the machines and some sales people. They tell the surgeons, ‘Look, you can add hair transplant surgery to your practice. It’s a 50 billion dollar industry you can get a piece of. Just buy my machine. You don’t have to do anything. I will send the staff to do the procedure for you, and do the advertising.’ So it became very popular.”

Let this sink in. A manufacturer’s sales representative pitches doctors a turnkey solution that requires no knowledge or skill on their part to operate so they can enjoy a new revenue stream. Other personnel who are hired by the device’s manufacturer will be sent out to perform the FUE procedure. The extent of their training does not qualify them to harvest and implant hair grafts – which is, by definition, surgery, as both require cutting into the skin.

Hair Restoration Surgeons Sound the Alarm About Unethical and Illegal Practices

Dr. Barusco is not alone in sounding the alarm. As Modern Aesthetics reports, hair transplant surgery is surgery.

“Unfortunately, some FUE medical device companies deceive some doctors into believing that after they buy this FUE motorized surgical drill that they can delegate these steps of hair transplant surgery to hair transplant technicians. Hair transplant technicians are medical assistants (MAs). MAs do not have to graduate from any school (even high school), do not have to pass any test, and are not licensed/certified by any medical governing body. A medical device company has no authority to provide MAs medical licenses to practice medicine. However, some FUE medical device companies are deceiving the public and doctors by giving these MAs certificates stating that they are certified and can be delegated to do these critical aspects of the surgery. This is illegal and probably criminal since it is aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine.”

Florida and other states in the U.S. have passed legislation which deems that harvesting hair and making incisions on a patient are functions that only a physician, a Physician’s Assistant (not the same as a technician or nurse) or a Nurse Practitioner are allowed to perform.

“If you don’t see any of them in the room, the surgery is being done illegally,” says Dr. Barusco. “Technicians and any other such individuals are practicing medicine without a license, and the doctor who allows them to do it in their practice is also aiding and abetting the illegal practice of medicine and may lose his or her medical license and/or face felony charges.”

In a highly publicized case, the owner of a surgical center in Virginia Beach, VA, was arrested in 2023 for performing hair transplants without a license. The investigation began after a patient filed a complaint, claiming long-lasting medical issues as a result of his procedure.

The Potential for a Botched Hair Transplant is Real

You don’t need to try hard to imagine the potential for a botched outcome or even a risk to your health if you get a procedure from someone whose shingle lists “hair transplants” under other specialties. Also, consider the professional ethics of a doctor who sees you as just a quick buck, rather than a patient who deserves respect and the utmost care. Dr. Barusco has consulted with far too many such people who suffered poor outcomes as the result—including those whose transplant can’t be corrected because too much hair was harvested from the donor area of the scalp.

“I meet with patients almost every day who have trusted doctors and practices because they had these devices, only to find out later that they would need me to fix what’s been done to them. And what is even worse, is that these patients are coming to me not only with poor results on their hairline, but also scarring and thinning of their donor hair caused by taking too many hairs with incisions that are too close together and/or larger than they should be.”

It’s Important to Choose Your Surgeon Wisely

One big tip-off as to whether a practice has literally bought into using a robotic device as its sole means of performing hair transplants is if it only offers the FUE. A practice that does not also offer follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and/or the No-Shave FUE—which Dr. Barusco developed to completely conceal harvested donor sites immediately—does not have an experienced hair transplant specialist on staff, and should be avoided.

Also known as the “strip” method, the FUT involves harvesting a very small strip of hair and skin from the donor area, then placing it under a microscope to be prepared for implantation as hair grafts. The FUT has undergone refinements over the years so that the only evidence is a pencil-line linear scar easily concealed by hair—even at a shorter length. As this procedure cannot be performed by a robotic device, look for a practice that offers the FUT and other procedures besides the FUE. Tempus Hair Restoration offers the procedures mentioned in the previous paragraph, as well as the groundbreaking combination FUE and FUT, which covers large areas of baldness in a single surgery without having to wait one or two years between procedures.

Avoiding practices that don’t specialize in hair transplants is just the initial step in ensuring your procedure will be performed by a qualified, experienced, skilled surgeon who puts the well-being and hair restoration goals of the patient first.

Dr. Barusco’s long list of accomplishments, his notable artistic ability and his successful surgical team make Tempus Hair Restoration a renowned practice. We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this important goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

There’s No Time Like the Present for a Hair Transplant!

Male Hair Restoration

Are you considering a hair transplant? If so, how long have you been thinking about it? Hopefully, you’re spending your time researching hair restoration procedures and surgeons through credible sources in order to make a good decision. However, there’s no time like the present to take the big step to improving your appearance and self-confidence! The new year offers new opportunities. Being the best possible version of yourself can help you make the most of them!

The World is More Competitive – You Need Every Advantage You Can Get!

Maybe you keep up with today’s rapidly changing technology out of necessity for your job, or just because you enjoy it. Although in the recent past being a rock star in your field was enough to keep you employed or position you as a desirable job candidate, we need to be honest about today’s situation. Projecting a dynamic, fit appearance now counts a great deal in how your employer—or potential employer—sees you. A balding scalp has an aging effect on even a young man. For a mature man, it can be a serious deterrent to job security or advancement.

Moreover, video conferencing is here to stay. Whether you’re interviewing for a job or meeting with coworkers and clients, that flattened-out, washed-out on-screen image is unflattering to most people as it is. Add hair loss to the equation. An increasing number of hair transplant patients specifically name Zoom as the motivation that brings them to the surgeon’s office.

The often unspoken concerns regarding age discrimination in the workplace are widespread and justified. According to Hiscock’s 2019 Ageism in the Workplace Study, more men than women feel that their advancing age has adversely impacted their careers—with 43% of men surveyed believing their age has prevented them from finding a new job. Our blog post—“Does Hair Loss Hurt Your Career?”—covers this topic in detail.

In addition to the job market, the dating scene is highly competitive. Hair loss can cause women to “swipe left” when they view your profile picture on dating apps. While it’s true that your positive qualities should outweigh physical appearance (the same could be said when you search such apps for an eligible bachelorette), many factors play into selecting a potential mate. And if that word seems a little prehistoric, there is much about how we subconsciously select a partner that’s hard-wired into our brain. A male with a full head of hair projects a desirable image of health and potency.

Again, let’s be honest. Women traditionally have been aware of the social price to be paid for showing signs of aging. But the bar is now being raised for men. If you’ve seen—or at least are aware of—the reality series, The Golden Bachelor, you know that men who have reached (or passed) their 50th birthday are expected to look robust and sport a full head of healthy hair. Also, highly promoted skincare brands marketed to men are making inroads, finding customers who want to fight wrinkles, under-eye bags and sagging skin. The ante has been upped when it comes to bringing your “A” game!

The Influence of Social Media, Pop Culture and International Culture on Perceptions of Male Attractiveness

We don’t live in a bubble. Expectations of physical appearance are now higher due to social media, as well as international influences on perceptions of male attractiveness. Instagram, TikTok and K-pop boy bands permeate our culture, setting style standards. Also, an openness to international cultures has introduced different aesthetic preferences.

For example, as our blog post—“Hair Restoration Around the World: A Cultural Perspective”—observes, the male beauty standards in East Asian popular culture – from Korean K-pop to Hong Kong’s movie industry—often favor big hair and boyish looks. With South Korea being a global leader in skincare and other beauty trends, the number of hair transplant clinics is growing. Moreover, hair transplant procedures are popular among Chinese males, with the number of Chinese patients in Asian clinics described by a CNN report as “booming.”

If you’re noticing more men sporting a hairline that’s closer to the forehead, there’s a reason! The hairline of Caucasian males is forward in youth, gradually receding from the temples somewhat until reaching its mature M-shape. Even when seeking a hair transplant for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss), Caucasian men typically are comfortable with a certain amount of recession remaining in this area.

However, a more forward hairline has long been favored by men of Black, Hispanic, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern heritage—who show a specific preference to restore this hairline when they undergo a hair transplant procedure. The aesthetic goal is toward a hairline that signals the vigor and virility of youth, which an increasing number of men of all backgrounds find appealing as the image they want to project.

Hair Restoration Techniques are Better than Ever!

Today’s hair restoration procedures and technologies are better than ever. When performed by an experienced surgeon who combines skill with an artist’s eye—such as  Dr. Marco Barusco—founder and Chief Medical Officer of Tempus Hair Restoration—a hair transplant achieves the look of natural growth.

Dr. Barusco offers the following procedures and treatments:

Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) — In this procedure, follicular units (hair grafts) in groupings of one, two or three hairs are individually extracted from the back of the head (donor area) using small circular punch blades instead of a scalpel. The grafts are then transplanted to the thinning or balding areas of the scalp. Once the desired number of grafts are obtained, the donor sites are left to heal without suturing. The resulting scars are not readily visible and are easily concealed even by very short hair.

No-Shave FUE — Developed by Dr. Barusco, the no-shave FUE completely conceals harvested donor sites immediately, allowing you to resume your regular activities with virtually no evidence of the procedure.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) — Also known as the “strip” method, the FUT procedure has undergone refinements over the years so that the only evidence is a pencil-line linear scar easily concealed by hair—even at a shorter length. Although many hair transplant practices encourage patients toward the FUE, there are circumstances in which the FUT will produce the more successful outcome.

Combination FUE and FUT — This technique covers large areas of baldness in a single surgery. Patients with advanced hair loss are typically required to undergo multiple hair transplant procedures to obtain coverage of their entire bald scalp—having to wait one year or more between procedures. This allows patients to achieve their ultimate goal sooner, with one procedure versus many.

So What Are You Waiting For? Don’t Let Another Year Go By Without Getting Your Hair Back!

This is the time to take action! Letting your hair loss continue will only make restoration more challenging should you eventually decide to explore your options for a hair transplant procedure. Meanwhile, the world will continue to turn faster, and standards for appearance will be set even higher. Don’t get left behind as others get the opportunities you want!

Start by scheduling your free virtual consultation with Dr. Barusco today and explore the solutions that best fit your needs—all from the comfort of your home. With over 25 years of experience and a reputation as an innovator in his field, Dr. Barusco leads Tempus Hair Restoration with a commitment to delivering personalized care. Every consultation is conducted by Dr. Barusco himself, ensuring that you receive expert advice tailored to your unique situation. We also offer financing options to make your hair restoration journey as accessible as possible.

Consultations are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For out-of-town clients, we offer a complimentary two-night hotel stay for those traveling 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center.

No matter the distance, we are here to help you restore your hair and your confidence. Contact us today, and let’s start your journey together! You deserve to live your best life! There’s no time like the present!

Can a “Pluggy” Hair Transplant be Corrected?

Male Hair Restoration,

Are you living with a hair transplant that gave you a “pluggy” or “doll-head” look? If so, you’re not alone. And if you’re reluctant to undergo another procedure to correct it because you’re apprehensive about making it even worse, help is available if you choose the right surgeon. Of course, we will soon talk about Dr. Marco Barusco—Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration—and his extensive experience in correcting botched hair transplants. But first, let’s look at the reasons this kind of bad result has occurred over the years, and why it continues to this day.

Pluggy Hair Transplants: A Brief History

Back in the mid-1970s through the ‘80s—when hair transplants were first gaining popularity—the technology and surgical procedures for harvesting and implanting hair grafts were primitive by today’s standards. Doctors harvested hair with a circular punch device, and each graft contained as many as 20 hairs. The surgical team placed the transplanted grafts far enough apart to ensure they had a sufficient blood supply to survive. The hair then grew out as isolated clumps, similar to those on a doll’s head, resulting in an unnatural look.

Fortunately, hair transplant technology has come a long way since then. When performed properly, the outcome has the appearance of natural growth—thus achieving the desired effect that no one can tell you had a hair transplant!

So Why Are Pluggy Hair Transplants Still Out There?

Unfortunately, there are a lot of unqualified or minimally qualified people performing hair transplant procedures. Regular readers of our Tempus Hair Restoration blog have learned about foreign black market hair transplant clinics where non-medical staff members harvest and implant hair grafts—often without supervision by a licensed surgeon—under unsanitary operating room conditions. In such clinics, a pluggy result would probably be the least of what could go wrong.

Even here in the United States, clinics and medical practices that use robotic devices to harvest and implant hair grafts can cut corners by using unlicensed technicians or other staff members to operate the machine—in effect, performing surgery. Our blog has covered this situation in depth, and Dr. Barusco has written this eye-opening article about why you should avoid choosing such a practice for your procedure.

Today, we can add changing taste in male hairline aesthetics to the reasons why pluggy hair transplants persist. Unlike their fathers, the new generation of men seeking hair restoration procedures tend to favor a more forward hairline, which is characteristic of a youthful hairline. In the hands of a surgeon who has a poor sense of how to place hair grafts to have some variation to avoid a straight-across look, however, the growth pattern appears “off,” with the hairs seeming to grow up from the hairline instead of subtly blending in.

Dr. Barusco’s Advice for a Viewer Unhappy with His Pluggy Hairline

Dr. Barusco answers questions from viewers of his YouTube channel, Hair Loss Medical Advice. One viewer said he had a hair transplant in England in 2016, and has a concern about his hairline and the direction of the graphs. There were multiple hair graphs placed right on the hairline, resulting in a pluggy look. His question to Dr. Barusco: What can be done to fix it?

Looking at the viewer’s photo on screen, Dr. Barusco identified where the transplant went wrong. Of course, you should watch the video, but the essence of the issue is the hairline is at once too forward and too similar to that of an inverted U-shaped female hairline. While Dr. Barusco provides detailed advice regarding correction in the video, he recommends surgically removing some of the hairs from the hairline, dividing them into smaller units, and re-implanting them in a more natural pattern to soften the hairline. This is typically achieved by using advanced follicular unit extraction (FUE) techniques to achieve a less obvious, denser appearance that softens the pluggy effect.

Dr. Barusco also recommends removing some grafts from the corners of the hairline frontotemporal angles) to make them appear more natural.

Will the viewer follow up by booking an appointment with Dr. Barusco for a one-on-one consultation and undergo the corrective procedure? We don’t know yet, but watch this space for a follow-up blog post if he does!

Key Steps in Correcting a Pluggy Hair Transplant

While we just looked at one specific individual with a pluggy hair transplant issue, the general steps in performing a corrective transplant procedure are as follow:

Removal of old grafts—The primary step involves carefully extracting the large, visible “plug”grafts using a punch tool, essentially reversing the previous transplant procedure. 

Graft manipulation—Depending on the size and quality of the removed grafts, the surgeon might divide them into smaller follicular units for a more natural distribution. 

Strategic re-implantation—The newly separated grafts are then strategically placed in the recipient area, following a natural hair growth pattern to camouflage the previous unnatural appearance.

Camouflage techniques—In some cases, where the donor area is limited, the surgeon might use existing hair to “camouflage” the remaining visible pluggy areas. 

Factors to Consider when Correcting a Pluggy Hair Transplant

Severity of the “pluggy” appearance—The extent of visible plugs will determine the complexity of the revision procedure. 

Donor hair availability—The quality and quantity of remaining donor hair will influence the potential for achieving a natural result. 

Surgeon’s expertise—Choosing a highly experienced surgeon with a strong aesthetic sense is crucial for a successful correction.

Living with a Pluggy Transplant? Don’t Give Up Hope! Choose Your Next Surgeon Wisely!

When you get a hair transplant, you deserve the result you expected. If you didn’t, don’t resign yourself to living with it—as well as the dissatisfaction and diminished self-confidence you feel every time you look in the mirror. When it comes to hair restoration, you deserve care from a surgeon with experience, integrity and a proven track record. With over 25 years of experience and a notable reputation in the field, Dr. Barusco leads Tempus Hair Restoration with a commitment to delivering personalized care. Every consultation is conducted by Dr. Barusco himself, ensuring that you receive expert advice tailored to your unique situation. We also offer financing options that can help place this important goal within your reach.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re looking for answers to your specific hair loss questions, schedule your free virtual consultation with Dr. Barusco today. Consultations are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. And for out-of-town clients, we offer a complimentary two-night hotel stay for those traveling over 100 miles to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. We will be with you at every step of your hair restoration journey!

Planning a Hair Transplant for Future Hair Loss

Male Hair Restoration,

One common misconception about a hair transplant is that it’s a one-and-done procedure. However, the need for additional procedures is very possible as time and hair loss progresses. A conscientious, ethical hair restoration surgeon – such as Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration – will discuss long-term as well as immediate plans for follow-up surgeries during the initial patient consultation.

“When I counsel my patients, I always discuss the possibility or the likelihood of more transplants in the future because hair loss is progressive,” says Dr. Barusco. “What you see today on your scalp is not going to be the same in 10, 20 or 30 years. It’s safe to assume that if you are experiencing hair loss and facing a transplant, you’re probably going to be needing more as you get older.”

Why You May Need a Second Hair Transplant

For a variety of reasons, patients often have more than one hair transplantation procedure over their lifetime. Hair loss is dynamic, and an individual’s trajectory continues to evolve over time based on numerous environmental factors, genetics, overall health and age. Age-related changes include decrease in hair density, pigmentation and mass.

However, the most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss). This is an inherited, progressive condition. As the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) reports, it is also an unpredictably progressive condition. Early hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia can be an indication that hair loss will progress rapidly and will continue until most hair is lost. A hair restoration surgeon may recommend a program that conserves existing hair with a hair restoration drug approved by the FDA, such as minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) or finasteride (brand name Propecia – which is recommended for men only).

While a hair restoration surgeon assesses a patient’s donor area to determine the number of hair grafts available for the transplant procedure being planned, the surgeon should also be calculating how many can be harvested for a subsequent surgery. The donor area is the region at the back of the head where hair grafts are harvested for transplantation into areas experiencing hair loss. This area serves as the primary source of healthy hair follicles for the transplant procedure.

Predicting the progression of androgenetic alopecia is not easy. According to the ISHRS, “An experienced hair restoration doctor is able to anticipate future hair loss, and place transplanted hair into those areas to create a reserve against future hair loss. On the other hand, surgical hair restoration procedures may be required after the original procedure due to progressive and unpredictable hair loss. A potential problem over the years of treatment is the possibility that androgenetic alopecia will outpace efforts to restore hair, and at some point there might not be enough donor hair available for transplantation. The surgeon will be able to anticipate the patients’ need for subsequent procedures, and custom design the long-term treatment plan accordingly.

This is a critical issue that should be discussed by the patient with the physician hair restoration specialist in planning a comprehensive approach to long-term hair restoration.”

The Difference That a Skilled Hair Transplant Surgeon Makes

The key to planning hair restoration surgery to address future hair loss depends upon the surgeon’s skill, experience and eye for achieving the best aesthetic outcome in planning the initial surgery. This includes educating patients and ensuring they have realistic expectations of what can be achieved.

For example, men who start losing hair in their 20s may want a hair transplant – which is understandable, as hair loss has an aging effect. However, Dr. Barusco advises against hair transplant surgery for those under the age of 25. The reason is – as mentioned earlier – a hair transplant relies on using donor hair from the back of the head. If performed too early, the donor hair may be distributed too heavily in one area, leaving too little to be transplanted later, when needed on another area of the scalp as hair loss progresses.

Moreover, as our blog post – “When Should You Have a Hair Transplant Procedure?” – covers, the male hairline continues to form up to approximately age 29. Younger men may believe their hairline is receding, when in fact it’s evolving into what is known as a mature hairline. This occurs when the hairline moves back about a half inch to one inch from where it used to be. A mature hairline forms the “M” shape that distinguishes the male hairline from the female oval hairline shape.

For this and other reasons, Dr. Barusco advises his potential patients to wait until their hair loss has stabilized. Doing so not only allows him an accurate determination of the best procedure to perform to address current hair loss, but predict how the pattern will progress over time and plan accordingly for the second procedure.

One sign of a botched hair transplant is one in which the surgeon – or unlicensed technician who actually performed the procedure – created an aggressive, forward hairline and/or placed too many grafts to fill in bald or balding areas – thus overharvesting grafts from the donor area, not leaving enough for a future procedure. Our blog post – “Don’t Let a Technician Perform Your Hair Transplant Surgery” – covers this important topic in detail. We strongly recommend you take the time to read it.

Will Your Second Hair Transplant Procedure be the Same as Your First?

This depends upon the experience and skill of your surgeon. Each patient’s situation is unique, requiring the ability to accurately forecast the pattern of progressive hair loss and accessing the amount of grafts that will remain in the donor area. The main procedures are as follows.

Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) – In this procedure, follicular units (hair grafts) in groupings of one, two or three hairs are individually extracted from the back of the head (donor area) using small circular punch blades instead of a scalpel. The grafts are then transplanted to the thinning or balding areas of the scalp. Once the desired number of grafts are obtained, the donor sites are left to heal without suturing. The resulting scars are not readily visible and are easily concealed even by very short hair.

No-Shave FUE – Developed by Dr. Barusco, the no-shave FUE completely conceals harvested donor sites immediately, allowing you to resume your regular activities with virtually no evidence of the procedure.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) – Also known as the “strip” method, the FUT procedure has undergone refinements over the years so that the only evidence is a pencil-line linear scar easily concealed by hair – even at a shorter length. Although many hair transplant practices encourage patients toward the FUE, there are circumstances in which the FUT will produce the more successful outcome.

Combination FUE and FUT – This technique covers large areas of baldness in a single surgery. Patients with advanced hair loss are typically required to undergo multiple hair transplant procedures to obtain coverage of their entire bald scalp – having to wait one year or more between procedures. This allows patients to achieve their ultimate goal sooner, with one procedure versus many.

This decision should be based on a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon. Each patient’s individual circumstances, preferences and long-term hair restoration goals must be carefully considered. Engaging in open and honest discussions with your surgeon is crucial to plan for the future. Understanding how many grafts you might need over time can help you decide whether FUT, FUE or a combination of both techniques aligns with your hair restoration journey while maximizing the potential of your donor area.

Plan Wisely for the Future by Choosing Your Surgeon Wisely

Being aware of the possibility that you will need more than one hair transplant procedure in your lifetime gives you all the more reason to make sure you choose your surgeon wisely. Ultimately, choose your surgeon 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.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

 

Reviving Confidence: A Comprehensive Guide to Hair Restoration with Dr. Marco Barusco

Hair Loss Procedures,

We at Tempus Hair Restoration often talk about the hair restoration journey. This is an accurate analogy, as there are many steps from the time you decide to explore your hair restoration options to the happy day when your new growth fills in so that you once again recognize the man in the mirror. However, there is much to learn to navigate this journey successfully and achieve the result you want.

We always sign off our Tempus Hair Restoration monthly blog post with the statement, “Choose your surgeon wisely.” Of course, we mean Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration. This month, we dedicate our blog post to introducing you to Dr. Barusco and the many reasons why he is the wise choice for your hair restoration procedure!

Meet Dr. Marco Barusco

A native of Brazil, Dr. Barusco decided to pursue advanced training in hair restoration techniques after completing his training in general surgery. His family’s history of hair loss weighed heavily in Dr. Barusco’s choice of specialty, knowing that he was very likely to experience it as well.

Says Dr. Barusco, “I’m a hair transplant patient too, so I understand how hair loss can affect your confidence and why I’ve dedicated my professional life to helping others who suffer from hair loss.”

In practice since 1998, Dr. Barusco is a leading hair restoration surgeon, devoted to developing and bringing the most advanced techniques to his patients. Moreover, he is a tireless educator who lectures and conducts workshops both nationally and internationally to instruct current hair transplant surgeons and educate the next generation. He is Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, and has written chapters for numerous hair restoration textbooks.

Dr. Barusco also has been honored to serve in key positions for hair restoration organizations, including the following:

Know Your Surgeon – Who Will be Performing Your Hair Transplant Procedure?

Now that you know Dr. Barusco’s background, think about other surgeons or hair transplant clinics you might be contacting for a consultation. Who will be performing your surgery? What is his or her professional background? If you schedule a consultation at a franchise clinic, you may not be meeting the surgeon, but a salesperson or medical technician. At some clinics, unlicensed technicians illegally operating robotic devices harvest and implant hair follicles. We invite you to read Dr. Barusco’s article about the significant risks of this too-common practice.

In our blog post – “Behind the Reviews – Dr. Marco Barusco’s Hair Transplant Patients Share Their Stories” – beard transplant patient Argelis F. describes his consultation experience with Dr. Barusco as an example of how this important discussion should be conducted.

“I called plenty of other surgeons, but his was the only practice I called where I spoke to the doctor himself. With the other places, I never got the actual procedure explained to me by the doctor. It was always by somebody else in the office. But Dr. Barusco was different.”

So what should this conversation be like? Dr. Barusco’s consultations cover the following areas: your hair loss history, your family history of hair loss, your medical history, your past and current medications, your allergy history, surgical history and a timeline of your hair loss. The consultation will also include an examination of your hair and a basic medical examination if the consultation is conducted in-office. Dr. Barusco will then arrive at a diagnosis of your hair loss.

Although not generally known, people can have more than one type of hair loss. For this reason, Dr. Barusco may have two or three ideas of the cause – which is known as a differential diagnosis.

Once the diagnosis is given, Dr. Barusco will discuss your hair restoration goals with you. Dr. Barusco knows that good communication is essential to getting the result you want – which includes setting realistic expectations of what you can expect. For example, a 45-year-old can’t get back the hair he had at age 18, but can get a good hairline and aesthetically pleasing crown coverage, if those are the goals. It’s a collaborative process in which you and Dr. Barusco have a candid discussion about what’s possible, and the best procedure for achieving the optimum outcome.

Dr. Barusco’s Leading-edge Hair Transplant Procedures

Dr. Barusco has long been at the forefront of advanced hair restoration procedures, having developed such techniques as the groundbreaking no-shave FUE. Short for follicular unit excision, the no-shave FUE completely conceals harvested donor sites immediately, allowing you to resume your regular activities with virtually no evidence of the procedure.

Going one step beyond this procedure is the long-hair FUE. It is also known as the “preview” long-hair FUE because it provides a preview of what the ultimate result will be. As with any hair transplant, the hair in the newly implanted grafts soon falls out, to be replaced by new growth as the grafts establish themselves. Dr. Barusco is one of only a few doctors in the world with the experience and skill to perform this technique.

Another leading-edge procedure is the combined FUE and FUT (follicular unit transplantation). This technique covers large areas of baldness in a single surgery. Patients with advanced hair loss are typically required to undergo multiple hair transplant procedures to obtain coverage of their entire bald scalp – having to wait one year or more between procedures. This allows patients to achieve their ultimate goal sooner, with one procedure instead of many.

Regardless which procedure Dr. Barusco performs, he harvests and implants each hair follicle by hand. This is essential in selecting the right follicles from the donor area of the scalp, and creating the implantation site to achieve the best possible coverage. Implanting each follicle by hand also allows Dr. Barusco to position them at the correct angle – which is necessary to achieve the look of natural growth. No matter what you may have read or heard, no robotic device can achieve this degree of accuracy or level of artistry.

Dr. Barusco’s Skill in Performing Hair Transplants for Patients with Special Circumstances

Dr. Barusco is also renowned for his skill in performing hair transplants to conceal scars caused by head trauma or surgery (such as facelifts) – as well as restoration procedures for those who have undergone chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. We invite you to read the inspiring story of “K.J.” – a patient whose near-fatal motorcycle accident left him with a wide scar where surgeons had to replace a section of his skull.

“(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.”

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.

As for K.J., his hair transplant successfully concealed his scar, allowing him to put this painful reminder of his traumatic injury in the past – and is now making the most of his second chance at life.

Success by Design – How Dr. Barusco’s Aesthetic Sense Creates Outstanding Results

Do you remember paint-by-numbers pictures? They’re still around and still the same: an outline of a drawing printed on canvas that has numbered sections for the different colors of paint to be used. The finished product is technically a painting, yet far from a work of art. Consequently, a hair transplant by a surgeon who lacks a sense of aesthetics may cover bald spots, but will look somewhat “off.”

As our blog post – “Principles of Male Hairline Design” – covers, in addition to properly positioning the hairline restoration to your facial features, implanting each follicular unit to create the appearance of natural growth is essential to preventing the result from looking like a hairpiece.

“There are no straight lines on the human body,” says Dr. Barusco. “You don’t want to put anything in a straight line because it doesn’t look natural. It will catch peoples’ eyes for the wrong reason. You want to create variability.”

During the transplant procedure, Dr. Barusco implants hair grafts to build macro and micro irregularities into the hairline. Each follicular unit graft can contain one to three (or even four) hair follicles, which Dr. Barusco varies to further create a natural effect.

Dr. Barusco also takes great care in creating a frontal temporal transition to achieve this visual variability. “If I just design a hairline and go straight into the hair without creating that soft transition to the temples, it’s going to look artificial. The effect will be so obvious that people will either know you’ve had a transplant, or think you’re wearing a hairpiece. Neither is a desirable outcome.”

Dr. Barusco Puts the Patient First

If you’re considering a hair transplant, you probably don’t know what to expect regarding the patient experience. What you should know is that you shouldn’t be treated like a product on an assembly line.

Dr. Barusco always puts the patient first. He makes sure that you understand how local anesthesia will be administered before the procedure, and that you have the appropriate pain management medications immediately after. His patients typically report that they are comfortable and relaxed during the procedure itself. They often are pleasantly surprised that Dr. Barusco gives them his personal cell phone number if they have questions, and calls them later that evening post-op to follow up on how they’re doing.

To further ensure a smooth recovery process and success of the procedure, post-op examinations are later scheduled at various intervals to allow Dr. Barusco to monitor scalp health and hair growth.

Choose Your Surgeon Wisely – Choose Excellence with Dr. Barusco

When it comes to hair restoration, expertise and compassion are essential. Dr. Barusco’s commitment to excellence, patient-centered approach and artistic precision make him a top choice for those seeking to restore their confidence and reclaim their youthful appearance. Explore your hair restoration options with Dr. Barusco, and embark on a transformative journey toward a revitalized you!

Ultimately, choose your surgeon 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. We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this important goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

Behind The Reviews – Dr. Marco Barusco’s Hair Transplant Patients Share Their Stories

Uncategorized,

Are you looking for a hair transplant surgeon? If so, you’re probably reading online reviews to get an idea of the surgeon’s ability to accomplish results that meet patient expectations. If you’ve been reading reviews for Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration – you’ve seen numerous five-star ratings and enthusiastic, heartfelt accounts of each patient’s experience. But what is the story behind their reviews? Two of Dr. Barusco’s patients offered to speak at length about their hair restoration journey – and why they were glad they chose him to achieve their goal.

Kevin Geddings – Owner of WSOS Radio and Morning Show Host, St. Augustine, FL

When Kevin Geddings started losing hair in his early 20s, he wasn’t surprised that it was from his crown area. “Balding in the crown is common in my family,” he said. “It’s just what’s expected. So that was my area of concern in seeking a hair transplant.”

Because radio personalities aren’t known for being introverts, his friends and associates never suspected that self-confidence was an issue. But his bald spot was an always-present, unwanted family legacy. When Geddings decided to look into his hair restoration options, Dr. Barusco was the first – and only – surgeon he consulted.

“One thing that impressed me is that the initial consultation was not rushed,” Geddings said. “Typically with a doctor, their time is very limited, and you feel they want to move things along. But Dr. Barusco talked at length with me during the consultation. We talked about hair growth patterns and how he figures that into the procedure to achieve a natural-looking result. We also talked very openly about pain management.

“Additionally, Dr. Barusco is on the faculty of the UCF medical school, which says a lot about his credentials. Also, it’s rare to work with a surgeon who’s actually had the experience of having a hair transplant. He just inspired a lot of confidence.”

In discussing the plan for Geddings’ procedure, Dr. Barusco determined he was a good candidate for the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT). Also known as the “strip” method, the FUT procedure has undergone refinements over the years so that the only evidence is a pencil-line linear scar easily concealed by hair – even at a shorter length.

During the surgery, Geddings reported a comfortable, pain-free experience. Especially noteworthy to him was the presence of other surgeons and doctors who were there to observe Dr. Barusco in order to perfect their own technique.

“For me, that was a key indication of his skill level,” Geddings said.

After many years of living with a bald crown, Geddings started seeing new growth in three to four months post-op.

“When I first saw the new growth, I thought it was very exciting. I was very pleased that I made the decision to do it. As Dr. Barusco will tell you, your hair will go through a shock, and you’ll lose the new hair. But it starts to grow again after. The result started to be most noticeable after nine months. I had a follow-up exam, and Dr. Barusco told me that he thought I could get even better results with a second surgery, since I still had plenty of inventory [donor hair] that we could utilize.”

Geddings underwent the second procedure in 2019 – about one year and a half after the first – happy that Dr. Barusco was able to harvest even more hair follicles from his donor area than during the original surgery. Today, Geddings is still thrilled that through the skill and artistry of Dr. Barusco he was able to reverse the family curse of a bald crown. In fact, Dr. Barusco has been a frequent guest on his radio show.

“Dr. Barusco is one of the best hair transplant surgeons in the world, if not the best, yet he genuinely enjoys getting to know his patients. He’s incredibly laid-back, and has a great personality. You won’t feel intimidated. After my surgeries, he called me on his cell phone at 8 p.m. to see how I was doing. It’s pretty rare that the actual surgeon will check in on you hours after the procedure.”

hair transplant

                            Kevin Geddings: Before and After Crown Area FUT Hair Transplant

Geddings’ advice for men considering a hair transplant?

“Don’t delay. A lot of guys think this is going to be inconvenient or painful. These are excuses with no basis in fact. It wasn’t painful at all. I didn’t even take the prescription pain medication. I was right back to work on the radio the next day. Forget the old-school misconceptions of what transplants were back in the ‘90s. The results are really, really good!

“My biggest regret is that I should have done it years ago. If you’re thinking about a hair transplant, stop procrastinating. You’re not gaining anything by waiting.”

Argelis F. – Making the Dream of a Full Beard Come True

In his online review on RealSelf, Argelis F. shared the story of his beard transplant by Dr. Barusco, and the life-changing effect it’s had. 

Argelis wanted a beard ever since he was old enough to grow one. However, nature didn’t cooperate.

“I only had upper cheek patches,” he said. “The only thing that truly grew in was the line of the jaw, but I had always wanted fullness. Ironically, my brother was able to grow out a full beard.”

Although frustrated by his inability to grow a burly beard, Argelis had the financial responsibilities typical of a husband and father of four children. Yet he never lost sight of his dream, and eventually saved enough money through working overtime to look for a hair transplant surgeon.

“I called plenty of other surgeons,” Argelis said. “But his was the only practice I called where I spoke to the doctor himself. With the other places, I never got the actual procedure explained to me by the doctor. It was always by somebody else in the office. But Dr. Barusco was different.”

Argelis had a video consultation with Dr. Barusco. The appointment was scheduled after Argelis sent Dr. Barusco photos of his face as it was, and with a line drawn to indicate the areas where he wanted growth. During the consultation, he was surprised that Dr. Barusco wanted to see the back of his head, from where the donor hair would be harvested. Argelis hadn’t considered that Dr. Barusco would want to make sure that enough good-quality hair would be available to give him the coverage he wanted – and was impressed with Dr. Barusco’s attention to such an important detail.

“The way Dr. Barusco explained everything made me very comfortable. It was an excellent conversation. I could tell he has experience.”

On the big day, Argelis reported a very comfortable experience during surgery, which was performed under local anesthesia. He enjoyed lunch during a break in the procedure, then drifted back into relaxed sleep.

“There was no pain, even afterwards. It was almost like it didn’t happen.”

But just over two weeks later, Argelis began to see the proof that it really did happen.

“I believe that after the second week, I was able to scrub my face. I saw hair. Dr. Barusco told me not to be discouraged if I didn’t see anything after the scabs fell off, but six or seven months in, there was growth!”

It was a proud day for Argelis when he went to the barber to trim his beard and even it up. “It looks so natural, I don’t tell people I had the procedure done.”

Argelis said he appreciates Dr. Barusco’s technical skill and artistry, based upon the reactions he’s received – as well as the poor results he’s seen of beard transplants performed by other surgeons. He told of seeing a man he’d known for a long time who remarked on his beard. The man assumed Argelis had just decided to grow a beard – as if he’d always had the ability, but simply chosen not to do so until recently. Argelis did not correct him.

On another occasion, he went to a restaurant with his father-in-law, who knew someone who worked there. His father-in-law told Argelis the man had a beard transplant. “He went overseas for the transplant. It had been some time since he had it done, but he still had patchy growth and some red areas on his skin.”

Argelis: Before and After Beard Transplant

                                             Argelis: Before and After Beard Transplant

What advice does Argelis have for men considering a beard transplant?

“Don’t go for the cheaper things in life. You get what you pay for. If you want a beard that looks natural, you need a good surgeon. I left the review for Dr. Barusco because I’m truly happy with the result. To me, this is life-changing. I feel more comfortable as a man. I want people to know that this is worth it. The person I went to is the real deal.”

Read the Reviews to Help You Choose Your Surgeon Wisely

We at Tempus Hair Restoration thank every patient who has placed their trust in Dr. Barusco to perform their hair transplant procedure. Taking the time to write a review or agree to appear in a testimonial video on Dr. Barusco’s YouTube Channel – Hair Loss Medical Advice – means a great deal to us. You have helped others get the information they need to make an informed choice about an extremely important decision.

Ultimately, we want those considering a hair transplant to choose your surgeon 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. We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this important goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

The Current State of Hair Transplant Surgery

Male Hair Restoration,

Not so long ago, there was a certain degree of secrecy and shame involved with undergoing a hair transplant. Men who had a procedure didn’t want anyone to know – although the outcome tended to be obvious, as early techniques were crude by today’s standards. Now, hair transplants have gone mainstream, with men from all walks of life open about having had a hair restoration procedure, or actively seeking one. Improvements in technology allow results to have the appearance of natural growth, encouraging more men than ever to pursue their goal of a fuller head of hair – and the accompanying boost in self-confidence they expect.

However, the advanced state of hair transplant surgery has inadvertently led to abuse by those looking for a quick profit. Considering that hair transplants constitute a $53 billion dollar market worldwide, the incentive to do so is great. Black market Turkish hair transplant clinics and cosmetic surgery practices that utilize a robotic device operated by non-medical technicians are among the foremost bad actors. In a highly publicized case, the owner of a surgical center in Virginia Beach, VA, was arrested in 2023 for performing hair transplants without a license.

Dr. Marco Barusco Advocates for Hair Transplant Patients

Because such unethical clinics and practices continue to thrive, often causing irreparable harm to patients, Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration – has become a tireless advocate for educating consumers about their risks. In his three-part YouTube podcast series – “The Current State of Hair Transplant Surgery” – Dr. Barusco provides his unique perspective as a leading hair restoration surgeon on why the situation has become so hazardous, why consumers need to take it seriously, and how they can protect themselves.

“One positive factor is that hair transplants are now mainstream,” says Dr. Barusco. “On the negative side, a lot of surgeries are being performed incorrectly. Right now, we’re seeing challenges in patients that have been really hurt by inexperienced people – unlicensed people. It’s been a dangerous thing.”

 

Part two of the series – “Pictures and Explanations: When Hair Transplants are Not Done Well” – features Dr. Barusco discussing photos of botched transplants with podcast host Peter Roman. Patient photos were provided by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) from its ongoing consumer education campaign, Fight the FIGHT (Fraudulent, Illicit and Global Hair Transplants). The graphic photos of disfiguring results are of black market Turkish clinic patients. Dr. Barusco is a Fellow of the ISHRS – a distinction held by fewer than 10% of ISHRS members – and is highly involved in its Fight the FIGHT effort.

 

In part three of the series – “Do It Right or Don’t Do It At All” – Dr. Barusco talks with Roman about how cosmetic surgery practices add hair transplantation with robotic devices operated by unlicensed technicians. Says Dr. Barusco:

“What they [the robotic device manufacturer] do is go to a plastic surgery conference and buy an exhibitor’s space and set up with the machines and some sales people. They tell the surgeons, ‘Look, you can add hair transplant surgery to your practice. It’s a 50 billion dollar industry you can get a piece of. Just buy my machine. You don’t have to do anything. I will send the staff to do the procedure for you, and do the advertising.’ So it became very popular.”

However, Florida and other states in the U.S. have passed legislation which deems that harvesting hair and making incisions on a patient are functions that only a physician, a Physician’s Assistant (not the same as a technician or nurse) or a Nurse Practitioner are allowed to perform.

“If you don’t see any of them in the room, the surgery is being done illegally,” says Dr. Barusco. “Technicians and any other such individuals are practicing medicine without a license, and the doctor who allows them to do it in their practice is also aiding and abetting the illegal practice of medicine and may lose his or her medical license and/or face felony charges.”

Of course, the patients receiving bad outcomes may have to live with the result – and Dr. Barusco has consulted with far too many such people.

“I meet with patients almost every day who have trusted doctors and practices because they had these devices, only to find out later that they would need me to fix what’s been done to them. And what is even worse, is that these patients are coming to me not only with poor results on their hairline, but also scarring and thinning of their donor hair [the limited supply of permanent hair used for transplants] caused by taking too many hairs with incisions that are too close together and/or larger than they should be.”

How the FUE Helped Pave the Way for Bad Hair Transplant Practices

The vast majority of abuses in hair transplant procedures involve the popular follicular unit excision (FUE). Why? Because of the manner in which the procedure is performed. Follicular units (hair grafts) in groupings of one, two or three hairs are individually extracted from the back of the head (donor area) using small circular punch blades instead of a scalpel. The grafts are then transplanted to the thinning or balding areas of the scalp. Once the desired number of grafts are obtained, the donor sites are left to heal without suturing. When performed properly by an experienced, licensed hair transplant surgeon, the resulting scars are not readily visible and are easily concealed even by very short hair.

In the follicular unit transplantation (FUT), a very small strip of hair and skin is harvested from the donor area, then placed under a microscope to be prepared for implantation as hair grafts. The donor area is then closed with sutures. The FUT has undergone refinements over the years so that the only evidence is a pencil-line linear scar easily concealed by hair – even at a shorter length. As the FUT can only be performed by a surgeon’s hands, this procedure cannot be performed by a robotic device or unlicensed staff member operating a punch. The deceptive ease with which the FUE can be performed has, unfortunately, opened this procedure to widespread abuse.

How to Make Sure You Choose the Right Hair Transplant Surgeon

As we hope you’ve learned, today’s state of hair transplant surgery allows those who are an appropriate candidate for a procedure to achieve outstanding results – but only if you choose a licensed surgeon who specializes in hair restoration procedures. Looking for a hair transplant at a bargain can lead to disaster, as Chris, a victim of a Turkish black market hair transplant clinic, relates:

“Before choosing a hair transplant clinic in Turkey, carefully consider the consequences of making a poor decision. The repercussions can haunt you for the rest of your life, with little opportunity for correction or repair … Believe me when I say that the losses incurred from choosing the wrong place extend far beyond hair and money.”

In beginning your search, the ISHRS website is an ideal place to start. It provides consumers with unbiased information on a wide range of issues – including how to be sure that a properly trained and licensed physician performs your hair transplant procedure, questions to ask during your consultation and many others.

We also invite you to visit Dr. Barusco’s YouTube channel, Hair Loss Medical Advice, where you can learn as he discusses such issues as the types and causes of hair loss, hair transplant procedures, and much more. And of course, our blog features informative posts, updated every month.

Ultimately, choose your surgeon 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. We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this important goal within reach.

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!

New Year, New You: Transform Your Confidence with a Hair Transplant

Male Hair Restoration,

Every year starts with TV commercials for fitness centers and weight loss products. The timing for such marketing is obvious. The new year symbolizes fresh beginnings – the promise you make to yourself that this will be the year you make improvements in your lifestyle, health and appearance.

Of course, these initial good intentions sometimes aren’t carried out into actions, set aside during the following months until next January delivers another guilt-inducing reminder of how last year’s resolutions went by the wayside. But if you need inspiration to kick-start a more vital-looking, self-confident you, a hair transplant can be the first step you take toward a new you in the new year!

Why New Year Resolutions are Hard to Keep

Let’s be honest. Getting in shape requires a lot of hard work and commitment to hitting the gym every other day. It’s a worthwhile goal, but your daily schedule might not be conducive to driving to a fitness center, and you may not have room in your home to accommodate equipment. Losing weight requires a commitment to changing the types of food you eat, and/or frequency of meals. Considering that eating is required to live, making this kind of modification in behavior is challenging on many levels.

When it’s hard to comply during the initial stages of any self-improvement program, motivation tends to suffer. If you’re not seeing results as soon as you’d like in proportion to the amount of effort or willpower you’re exerting, discouragement sets in. After all, why bother?

Unfortunately, this type of attitude leads to giving up and settling back into old, comfortable behaviors. Until next January, when you again feel the need to take control and make those positive changes. But maybe this year will be different!

How a Hair Transplant Can Make a Big Difference

If you are among the approximately 35 million men in the United States experiencing hair loss, a hair transplant can be a life-changing procedure. While well-meaning family members and friends may tell you that your self-esteem shouldn’t depend upon your physical appearance, it is human nature to feel better about yourself when you’re satisfied with the way you present yourself to the world. And that feeling can have a powerful effect.

As cited in our blog post – “The Big Picture: Hair Replacement and Self-Confidence” – multiple studies have linked male pattern hair loss to lowered self-esteem and decreased confidence. An article for WebMD written by journalist Marta Manning and medically reviewed by Jennifer T. Haley, MD, FAAD, cites a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Trichology. The study found that androgenic alopecia (genetic, a.k.a. male pattern baldness) lowered the quality of life for many men, with particular effects in the areas of self-perception and interpersonal relations. A 2018 research study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology identified low self-esteem in many patients with androgenic alopecia and found that confidence can improve after hair transplantation treatment.

Starting your self-improvement program with a hair transplant has one big advantage in that it requires no effort on your part – unlike exercise or following a weight loss plan. Although it generally takes 12 months for a hair transplant to fully grow out, you will begin seeing new growth and thickening from four to six months post-op. Our blog post – “What to Expect After Your Hair Transplant” – covers this topic in greater detail.

A Patient’s Testimonial Says It All

Dr. Marco Barusco – Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration – has been honored to receive five-star reviews and testimonials from patients on a regular basis. But one heartfelt testimonial sent to Dr. Barusco from “Joe” several years ago continues to stand out:

“After my divorce I was feeling really low. I had gained weight and lost all desire to start over. My hair was receding which made everything else worse. Each day that passed it was harder and harder to look in the mirror and gain the motivation to get my life together. Finally I figured I’d go talk to someone to see what can be done about my hair. I did a quick Google search and came across Dr. Barusco’s website. I was impressed with the vast amount of information … and before and after pictures. I thought I’d give it a shot as there was a consult office in my area and there was no charge … I moved forward with the procedure and was impressed with the professionalism … My confidence definitely increased as the compliments came rolling in. I joined a gym and felt determined again. I just got home from my final follow up. I looked in the mirror and finally feel happy with who is looking back.”

In Joe’s case, undergoing a hair transplant gave him the psychological boost he needed to make other major personal improvements. In a follow-up, Joe reported that he had some cosmetic procedures performed, and is now living his best life!

Which Hair Transplant Procedure Is Right for You?

Dr. Barusco is an award-winning board-certified hair transplant surgeon with more than 25 years dedicated exclusively to hair restoration. He has long been at the forefront of advanced hair restoration procedures, having developed such techniques as the groundbreaking no-shave FUE. Short for follicular unit excision, the no-shave FUE completely conceals harvested donor sites immediately, allowing you to resume your regular activities with virtually no evidence of the procedure.

Going one step beyond this procedure is the long-hair FUE. It is also known as the “preview” long-hair FUE because it gives the patient a preview of what the ultimate result will be. As with any hair transplant, the hair in the newly implanted grafts soon falls out, to be replaced by new growth as the grafts establish themselves. Dr. Barusco is one of only a few doctors in the world with the experience and skill to perform this technique.

Another leading-edge procedure is the combined FUE and FUT (follicular unit transplantation). This technique covers large areas of baldness in a single surgery. Patients with advanced hair loss are typically required to undergo multiple hair transplant procedures to obtain coverage of their entire bald scalp – having to wait one year or more between procedures. This allows patients to achieve their ultimate goal sooner, with one procedure instead of many.

However, it’s important to understand that choosing a hair transplant procedure isn’t the same as ordering from a menu. An experienced, ethical surgeon will examine your scalp, diagnose the cause of your hair loss, then discuss your hair restoration goals and expectations – followed by a treatment plan that is right for your individual situation. Areas to be covered should include the type of surgery, why this type of surgery is recommended, which areas of the scalp will be involved, how the surgery will be performed and the results you can expect. Our blog post, “The Importance of Consultation Before Hair Restoration Treatment” – covers this topic in greater detail.

Make This the Year You Get your Hair and Self-confidence Back

Make this the year you transform your appearance and regain your confidence! Don’t let hair loss hold you back any longer – take the first step toward a new you in the new year! We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we offer financing options that can place this goal within reach.

Ultimately, choose your surgeon 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. 

Contact us to schedule your free virtual consultation. Dr. Barusco conducts every consultation himself, giving you the opportunity to learn your options in the comfort of your home – or any location, on any internet-enabled device. 

Dr. Barusco conducts consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese. For your greater convenience, Tempus Hair Restoration offers a two-night complimentary hotel stay to out-of-town clients who travel 100 miles or more to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center. No matter how far the distance, we welcome the opportunity to help you on your hair restoration journey!