Hair Transplants in the Crown / AgePosted by doctorhasson on January 11th, 2010

I had a question regarding one of the patients in your photo gallery. In number 37, the patient had 1,200 grafts to the crown only. How old was that patient? I am experiencing hair loss similar to him (i.e., my hair loss is limited to the crown so far). I am 27 years old and have been on Propecia for 1 year. I also use Rogaine. I think I have maintained over the past year, but would like more density.

I understand everyone is different (with respect to density, laxity, etc.), but generally speaking, would it be reasonable for someone my age to have a hair transplant in the crown? I have read, in the past, that most doctors will not transplant the crown first in men under 30.

By way of background, my father (54) has significant hair loss in the crown, but maintained his hairline. Also, I have an older brother (29) that is experiencing hair loss in the crown only. However, I do have uncles (on both sides) with varying degrees of hair loss in different patterns.

If you think it would be reasonable for someone my age with my family history to have a transplant in the crown, I will likely submit the necessary information for an online consultation. — B.A.

Thanks for your question. Patient number 37 was in his early 30′s at the time of surgery. Whether it is advisable to have surgery in the crown in your cases depends on a few factors, some of which you have touched on:

  1. You have sufficient donor reserves should you eventually need transplants to the frontal zone. This on its own would be enough to justify crown work.
  2. You are taking Propecia. This would be advisable but it alone would not justify working in the crown.
  3. You likely are following in the hair loss pattern of your father and older brother. This would be a plus and if the situation was borderline, it may be enough to make a case for reconstructing the crown.

It is a reasonable assumption in your case that a transplant in the crown would be safe based on your information. In the end, it comes down to the donor area. The better the quality and supply, the more options. If you would like to send photos, submit a hair loss consultation form. Please follow our photo guidelines before submitting the form. The photos and detailed history should provide us enough information to determine if you are a good candidate for crown reconstruction.

— Victor Hasson, MD

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