Medical certifications can be confusing when searching for a qualified doctor. There are so many acronyms! What do they mean?
If you are interested in a hair transplant, there is one certification the best board-certified hair transplant surgeon in DC needs to have, and here is why.
What Does ABHRS Stand For? Why Is It Important to Choose an ABHRS-Certified Surgeon?
ABHRS stands for the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, and it’s a distinguished designation for your hair transplant surgeon to have. Only around 200 hair transplant surgeons have become diplomates of the ABHRS, and it’s not an easy road to take.
To qualify for the ABHRS exam, a surgeon must present the board with case logs and reports that include surgical details along with before / after photos of their patients. These photos must clearly demonstrate high-quality cosmetic and aesthetic results.
To become a member of the ABHRS, a hair transplant surgeon must demonstrate sufficient training, present evidence of post-training surgical experience, a high level of skill, and a comprehensive clinical understanding of hair loss and its treatment modalities.
The American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery is the only validated exam dedicated to hair restoration. Choosing a hair transplant surgeon without this qualification can potentially endanger your health, and you certainly will not end up with pleasing results.
I’m Interested in a Hair Transplant and Want to Find the Best Surgeon, so What Steps Should I Take?
A hair transplant is not covered by insurance, so most patients ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also try an internet search, but be sure to read reviews!
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, schedule a consultation and ask hair transplant questions to find the best board-certified hair transplant surgeon in DC. Here is a list to get you started, but you should also add whatever comes to mind:
- Are you ABHRS certified?
- Can I see before / after photos of your work?
- How many years of hair transplant experience do you have?
- Do you have patients who are willing to speak to me about their hair transplant experience?
- What type of hair transplant should I have?
- What are the risks?
- Do you have emergency protocols in place?
- Where will my surgery occur?
- Is the facility accredited? State licensed?
- What kind of results can I expect?
Be sure that your transplant specialist is ABHRS certified.
What Types of Hair Transplants Are Available?
Currently, there are two main types of hair transplants – follicular unit graft (FUG) and follicular unit extraction (FUE).
An FUG hair transplant is a process that is completed over a series of appointments with your hair transplant surgeon. It involves taking a strip of hair from a donor site (typically the back of the head) and then separating small groups of tissue containing hair follicles for implantation.
FUG is the oldest form of hair transplant, and while it does have its merits, it’s not always the ideal choice for many patients. It can lead to scarring, and many men and women find results aren’t quite as natural as with the FUE technique.
The FUE hair transplant involves harvesting individual hair follicles from a suitable donor area and then implanting them in areas of need. This method of hair transplant can create a more natural hairline and eliminate the risk of scarring. There is also less recovery time needed for FUE.
End Your Search for the Best Board-Certified Hair Transplant Surgeon in DC When You Make This Call!
At The Washington Hair Institute located within The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Stephen Hopping will use the most advanced technology and techniques to achieve hair transplant results you love.
For years, Dr. Hopping has been recognized as one of Washington Magazine’s “Top Surgeons” and he not only performs surgery, but he teaches it too. His compassion, expertise, and passion for his work are evident as soon you meet him.
Book your hair transplant consultation by calling 202-785-3175 today. We are excited to partner with you on this journey to beautiful, healthy hair!
