Male Pattern Baldness Treatment

Table of Contents

1. Step 1: Surgical Hair Restoration
2. Step 2: Medical Treatment
   1. Propecia® (Finasteride)
3. ROGAINE® with 5% Minoxidil
4. Contact Arocha Hair Restoration

Our experienced hair restoration surgeon, Dr. Bernardino Arocha, believes the treatment of male pattern baldness (MPB) is best accomplished by a two-pronged approach:

Step 1: Surgical Hair Restoration

First, the areas of lost hair are surgically treated to restore the framing of your face. It is critical that a naturally-occurring pattern be restored. Dr. Arocha will utilize advanced microsurgical techniques to ensure that the results look completely natural. With hair replacement surgery procedures such as follicular unit extraction (FUE), the ARTAS® Robotic System, and other options, Dr. Arocha can restore areas of hair loss with beautiful results.

Step 2: Medical Treatment

Second, your hair loss should be stabilized by medical treatment. The most efficacious therapy for male pattern baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia) is typically a combination of Propecia® and ROGAINE® 5%.

Propecia® (Finasteride)

Propecia® is a blocker of 5a-reductase, which prevents the conversion of testosterone to DHT (a hormone breakdown product that can lead to hair loss if produced in excessive amounts). This is important because we do not know which pattern of hair loss you have inherited. That is, Androgenetic Alopecia can continue to progress until the pattern you have in your genes is completely developed.

Propecia® can only be used by men. It has been known to slow or stop hair loss progression in about 90% of men, and it can aid regrowth in the crown in about 48%. Note: in a study, there was a slight increase in sexual side effects in those on the Propecia® (4.2%) vs. placebo (2.2%).

ROGAINE® with 5% Minoxidil

The second most effective drug is 5% minoxidil. It has been shown to slow or stop hair loss in about 35% of patients, and has helped regrow hair in the crown in about 10% of patients. The 5% rogaine is 45% more effective than the 2%, but it is a little more likely to cause scalp irritation and oily hair.

The combination of surgical and medical treatment creates a more fortified approach to hair loss treatment, addressing both the immediate issue and working to prevent the progression of hair loss. During your initial consultation with Dr. Arocha, he will evaluate your needs and talk with you about your options. Together, you and Dr. Arocha will decide the course of action that can best meet your goals.