What Tests Are Done Before Hair Restoration?

Hair restoration has become an increasingly popular solution for men and women experiencing hair loss. However, before undergoing the procedure, a thorough hair restoration consultation is necessary to determine suitability. Various medical tests help assess the underlying causes of hair loss and ensure the patient is in good health before surgery.

In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of pre-procedure testing, the different types of tests conducted, and how they impact the success of hair restoration. If you’re considering treatment at a reputable clinic like the Harley Street Hair Clinic, understanding these tests will help you prepare for the journey ahead.

Why Pre-Restoration Testing is Important

Before undergoing any surgical procedure, including hair restoration, medical testing is essential. Here’s why:

1. Assessing the Cause of Hair Loss

Not all hair loss is the same. It can be caused by genetics, hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors. Identifying the root cause helps determine whether surgical restoration is the best solution.

2. Determining Candidacy for Hair Restoration

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for a hair transplant. Patients with severe medical conditions, unstable hair loss, or insufficient donor hair may not be suitable. A hair restoration consultation ensures realistic expectations and the best possible outcome.

3. Reducing Risks and Complications

Surgical procedures come with risks, and hair restoration is no exception. Pre-procedure tests help identify health conditions that may interfere with healing, such as diabetes or anaemia. Addressing these issues beforehand improves overall success.

4. Planning a Personalised Treatment Approach

Every patient’s hair loss pattern is unique. Pre-procedure tests allow specialists to customise the treatment plan, selecting the most effective technique (FUT or FUE) and ensuring the best possible hairline design for natural-looking results.

5. Ensuring Long-Term Success

Hair restoration is a long-term investment, and medical evaluations help predict how hair loss may progress in the future. Understanding factors like hormonal fluctuations or underlying deficiencies allows doctors to recommend additional treatments, such as medications or lifestyle changes, to maintain results.

Common Tests Before Hair Restoration

Medical evaluations before hair restoration typically include blood tests, scalp analysis, and allergy screenings. Below is a breakdown of the most common tests performed.

A. Blood Tests

Blood tests provide a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s overall health. These are some of the most important tests conducted before a hair transplant:

B. Scalp and Hair Analysis

Examining the scalp and hair structure helps determine the pattern and severity of hair loss.

• Trichoscopy – A non-invasive digital microscopic analysis that magnifies the scalp and hair follicles, helping doctors assess follicle health, detect miniaturisation, and identify potential scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or early signs of alopecia.
• Hair Pull Test – A simple diagnostic method where a specialist gently pulls small sections of hair to determine the severity of hair shedding. Excessive shedding may indicate telogen effluvium or other hair loss conditions.
• Scalp Biopsy (if needed) – A small tissue sample is extracted from the scalp to diagnose complex hair loss conditions such as alopecia areata, scarring alopecia, or underlying inflammatory disorders.

C. Allergy and Sensitivity Tests

Since hair restoration involves anaesthesia and post-surgical medications, allergy testing is crucial.

• Local Anaesthesia Sensitivity Test – This test ensures the patient does not have an allergic reaction to the numbing agents used during the hair restoration procedure. It helps prevent complications such as swelling, itching, or severe allergic responses.
• Medication Allergy Test – Patients may need antibiotics or painkillers after surgery. This test checks for any potential allergic reactions to these medications, ensuring a safe recovery process.
• Minimising Risks – Conducting these tests before surgery helps prevent unexpected reactions, ensuring a smoother procedure and post-operative healing. Identifying sensitivities early allows doctors to choose safer alternatives if needed.

D. Other Health Assessments

Additional tests may be required based on a patient’s medical history.

• Blood Sugar and Diabetes Screening – Uncontrolled diabetes can slow down healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Cardiac Health Evaluation – Patients with a history of heart disease may require clearance before surgery.

What Happens After the Tests?

Once all necessary tests are completed, the results are reviewed during the final hair restoration consultation. Here’s what happens next:

• Consultation Review – The doctor carefully reviews test results, addressing any concerns and confirming whether the patient is a suitable candidate for hair restoration. If issues are identified, additional steps may be recommended before proceeding.
• Customised Treatment Plan – Based on test findings, the treatment plan is tailored to individual needs. Patients with deficiencies may need supplements, while those with hormonal imbalances might require medication alongside surgery.
• Lifestyle Adjustments – Patients may be advised to make lifestyle changes, such as improving their diet, reducing stress, and quitting smoking, to enhance hair restoration results.
• Scheduling the Procedure – Once approved, the patient finalises the surgery date, choosing a reputable clinic such as Harley Street Hair Clinic for expert care.
• Final Preparations – Patients schedule their surgery date, receive details on aftercare, and clarify any remaining doubts before undergoing hair restoration.

Conclusion

Undergoing proper medical testing before hair restoration is essential for ensuring safety, effectiveness, and long-lasting results. These tests help identify underlying causes of hair loss, determine eligibility, and minimise risks associated with the procedure.

If you’re considering treatment at a trusted clinic like the Harley Street Hair Clinic, scheduling a thorough medical evaluation is the first step towards successful hair restoration. Consulting with experts at Zestige can also provide you with the right guidance and personalised solutions for your hair loss concerns.

Taking the time for proper testing ensures you achieve the best possible results, giving you the confidence and assurance you need before starting your hair restoration journey.