New York Scalp Reduction

Scalp reduction is a surgical procedure which provides an alternative to hair transplants for creating a new, natural-looking head of hair. This procedure can restore hair to a bald spot on the crown of the head. The surgery takes advantage of the elastic properties of the skin by excising the bald area and stretching the hair-bearing scalp from the back and sides of the scalp to cover the removed area. Unlike hair transplantation, scalp reduction produces immediate results.

Scalp reduction is appropriate for men with balding on the crown of the head. The surgery may be performed on its own or in conjunction with scalp flap surgery or hair transplantation with grafts. General anesthesia is most often used, though local anesthesia and sedation may also be an option. Surgical times average three to four hours. In some cases, scalp reduction is performed in two stages several weeks apart.

Dr. Roland will evaluate your hair loss during your consultation at his Manhattan office to determine if scalp reduction is appropriate for you. The surgery may be performed in Dr. Roland's office or at one of the desirable hospitals or surgicenters throughout New York City. In most instances, a Y-shaped incision is made on top of the head and toward the back. Dr. Roland will remove the skin in this area and then lift the skin from the back and sides of the scalp upward and inward to cover and close the area. The incisions are then sutured closed. Resultant scarring can usually be covered by hair styling.

The recovery after scalp reduction is typically fast. Any discomfort that results can be alleviated with oral medication. Swelling and numbness are common during the first few days, and patients may experience a feeling of tightness in the scalp for several months. Work can usually be resumed within three to five days.

Commonly Asked Questions Concerning Scalp Reduction

What can Scalp Reduction do for me?

Scalp Reduction offers patients an alternative to hair transplants. This surgery can create a natural-looking head of hair by restoring hair to a bald or balding crown. Results are immediate. Scalp Reduction may be performed on its own or it may be combined with scalp flap surgery or hair transplant surgery with grafts.

Am I a good candidate for Scalp Reduction?

Scalp reduction can be used on men who have a bald spot on the crown of the head that they would like to improve. Candidates should be generally healthy, should not smoke, and should have realistic expectations.

Dr. Roland will address each of these factors during your consultation in his Manhattan office in order to determine your eligibility for this procedure.

How is Scalp Reduction performed?

Scalp Reductions are performed in an office-based facility, surgery center or hospital, in the New York City area. The surgery takes an average of three to four hours to complete under general anesthesia or, less commonly, local anesthesia and sedation. While different techniques may be used, a Y-shaped incision is commonly made on the top of the head. The skin within this area is then removed and covered with skin that is lifted from the back and sides of the scalp. The incision is then sutured closed.

What is the recovery from Scalp Reduction like?

The recovery from Scalp Reduction is generally quick though some swelling, numbness and discomfort may occur in the first few days. It's common to experience a feeling of tightness in the scalp for several months. Many patients return to work three to five days post operatively.

What is the scar like after Scalp Reduction?

Though Scalp Reduction will leave a scar where the incision is made, this is usually faint and easily covered by hair styling.

What are the risks of Scalp Reduction?

Possible complications of Scalp Reduction include: bleeding, infection, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, tissue death, and poor healing. Dr. Roland will discuss the risks and benefits of Scalp Reduction with you before your surgery.

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