Advice on HT (Afro. Pics Attached)

[gqd88]

Hi, I'm in the beginning stages of learning about hair transplants for afro hair and just wanted some feedback on what I should look for and expect with my situation. I'm African American, early 30's, in the U.S. and my thinning has been the same for over 5 years now. It's not that noticeable when it's brushed and cut properly but it looks bad enough to where I wear a hat most of the time especially if isn't freshly cut. The thinning is just on the top/middle. Everywhere else is pretty thick. Like really thick when it grows out. I guess my main concerns at this point is if I'm a good candidate first of all, around how many grafts am I looking, how much money I should have saved up, what Doctors I should be looking at and anything else worth noting. I know I will eventually need to see an actual doctor but I just wanted to get a good feel out here before moving forward. Thanks.

 

[NZK Medical]

Hi @gqd88, with typical male pattern hair loss. The hairline and or crown are normally the first areas to show signs of thinning. Your hair loss is behind the hairline, goes across the front, and appears to affect hair moving to the mid-scalp. While this could be a genetic trait. But, if not the case. It would help to identify the potential cause. Rather than going straight to a hair transplant. You may find a hair loss treatment can help to restore some loss of hair quality and add fullness to the area. As you have hair coverage with no actual bald areas. This suggests much of the hair is miniaturised in those areas. Consequently, even though the density is relatively high the look of fullness appears low. Due to the reduction in hair quality. You are still young, and as you say, not that noticeable under some conditions. So, if you can improve your existing hair quality that would maybe be the priority at this stage.

 

[Bigmac]

Providing there`s no underlying conditions causing your hair to thin I’d say check into hair loss meds such as Finasteride and Minoxidil. With these, your hair may improve enough that you won’t need a HT. They need careful consideration as they do have a small chance of side effects.
In the US there is Dr Umar who claims to specialise in Afro hair. Having a consult with him or possibly a dermatologist would be my advice.