Peter J. Panagotacos, MD Frequently Asked Questions

(415) 742-1973
2001 Union St., Suite 520
San Francisco, CA 94123
Dr. Peter J. Panagotacos is a hair restoration expert.
Q: Does transplanted hair grow like regular hair?
A: "Yes. During a transplant, entire hair follicles are moved from dense areas to thin areas. Once the hairs are transplanted, they continue to grow as before."
Q: How much does a hair transplant cost?
A: "Our base fee for surgery is $1,500 plus $6 per graft. The number of required grafts varies with each patient. We also have various discount programs in effect at any given time."
Q: Why is there a four- to six-month wait for new hair growth after a transplant or pharmaceutical treatment?
A: "It takes about four to six months for new hair to grow because the hair follicles have to shift from a resting stage to a growing stage. The new hairs also have to grow out long enough to be noticeable."
Q: Are hair transplants permanent?
A: "Hair transplants last as long as the hair continues to grow in the area from which it was taken. Most of the hairs in the back and sides remain all your life, but they do tend to thin out a little. The ideal treatment is to take Propecia so you don’t thin out more after you have the transplant."
Q: Is there a way to prevent or stop hair loss?
A: "Yes, there are a variety of medications that can prevent hair from falling out, but their efficiency is reliant on consistent use, which some people find difficult."
Q: Is there an alternative to Propecia for preventing hair loss?
A: "There are other treatments, but they’re not as effective and we generally don’t recommend them. Propecia is still the best oral medication for hair loss. Like all prescription medications, it has some side effects and must be taken under a physician’s care, but its overall safety record is very good."
Q: Is there a link between stress and hair loss?
A: "Yes, stress can cause hair loss—it’s a condition called telogen effluvium. But the loss is usually temporary, so the hair will grow back after the stress is relieved."