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First time poster re FUE - UK verus Holland

Bongo

Bongo

Member
Hi Guys....New to the forum (long time watcher though). I will post pics soon but have a new laptop and still sussing it out so please bear with me...
I'm 37 yoa, from Suffolk (England) and been agonising of a HT for about 3-4 years. Had very slow front recession for about 10 years, widows peak effect but not too serious (think Steve Clarridge type loss pre his recent HT). Most would say its not serious enough for an HT but it dominates my thoughts and even the slightest comment about my hair loss ruins my day so I'm determined to do something about it rather than nothing.
No loss on crown area and not on meds other than Minox foam 5% which I started about 2 months ago (seems to have stabilised my pace of loss also). Remaining hair is pretty thick and I'm told good quality. Would not consider Propecia - horror stories are enough to put me off ever taking it. I have 4 bothers (2 older) and none have lost a hair between them so family history is hopefully on my side.
Had a couple of face to face consultations in London about FUE recently but not impressed with either to be honest, although both agreed I need approx. 1200-1300 grafts to give me a decent improvement and re frame the face a little. Their sales lead approach really put me off, particularly when the price changed multiple times during the process - Which is annoying because I've now ruled them out when they might have actually been very good but I guess i'll never know now.
Keeping an eye on forums has now narrowed it down to two surgeons. Dr Ball from the Maitland Clinic in Portsmouth and Dr Eberson in Amsterdam.
I've not met either but both have been very professional in their approach by email and phone and not pushy. I'm looking to have surgery around early May time.
My question to those that read this - who would you choose in my situation? Travel abroad (and pay a little less also), but have the anxiety of a procedure overseas (and the aspect of flying after surgery concerns me), or drive to Portsmouth - the easier option of the two.
I'm ready to book about 8-9 days off work after so should have good chance of recovering without others realising too much (I'm keeping my hair on top long and just shaving the sides down very short pre surgery).
I would also be doing this on my own. No one would come with me and no one knows I'm doing this. If people feel the quality from Dr Eberson would be better I would probably jump on the plane, but if its felt there's not much in it I would probably be more comfortable paying another £1,000 and staying in the UK. My massive concern about UK clinics is nobody on the forums seems to rate them at all - but Dr Ball looks like he's done so good work in the past? Or is this just considered good work for a UK clinic rather than against what else is out there? So confused!
Any views you guys have or tips from your own experiences would be really appreciated. Many thanks in advance of any help/opinions.....[):h::


 
H

HairGuy

Valued member
I had my surgery with Mr Ball and can confirm he is a very nice guy and good at what he does. But do also consider the Belgium docs who are amongst some of the best in the world, check out Dr Feriduni and Dr Bisanga. Brussels is only a short ride on the Eurostar. Also Dr Lorenzo is Spain is regarded as probably one of the best in the world at FUE. I've not across any well known surgeons in Holland, I think you need to do more research!

My advice would be to consult with a few and then take it from there, see who you feel more comfortable and confident in.

PS Dr Feriduni has a 12 month waiting list just for consultations!
 
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janna

janna

Moderator
Hi Bongo,
I can attest to Dr Ball's work and have seen quite a few results in person of his past patients. Also, I am now working with Dr Ball and know he's meticulous and producing top quality work is his utmost priority. I'm fortunate to work for another physician who has the same philosophy as Shapiro Medical does in the US. I'd say it's worthwhile to meet both physicians in person if possible then make your decision. You'll know when you meet the physician you trust to work with you in restoring your hair. I agree it can be very confusing. If I can be of assistance, please email me or pm me here. Best of luck!



 
garageland

garageland

Valued member
I have seen work by Dr Ball and believe he would make an excellent choice I have also heard excellent feedback about him. I do not know much about Dr Eberson. As Janna says you should set up some consultations. Good Luck.
 
Bigmac

Bigmac

Administrator
Staff member
Both doctors produce good results, I think you will be ok which ever one you choose. Will look forward to seeing your pictures to compare with what you have been estimated.
 
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