| Q |
Why will I lose my hair when undergoing
chemotherapy treatments? |
| A |
Chemotherapy consists
of the administration of drugs that destroy
rapidly producing cancer cells. Cancer cells are
some of the most rapidly reproducing cells in the
body, but other cells such as those which
contribute to the hair shaft and nails, are also
rapidly reproducing. Unfortunately, while
chemotherapy drugs preferentially destroy cancer
cells, the drugs also can destroy those cells
responsible for normal growth of hair and nails.
Chemotherapy drugs are poisons to the cells of the
hair root responsible for hair shaft formation.
|
| Q |
Will I lose all of my hair?
|
| A |
The amount of hair loss depends upon the type
and dosage of chemotherapy prescribed. Not all
chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. For further
details consult with your physician.
|
| Q |
When will hair loss begin once I start my
chemotherapy treatments? |
| A |
Hair loss will begin approximately 1-3 weeks
after your first dose of chemotherapy, but won't
be total until 1-2 months have elapsed.
|
| Q |
When can I expect my hair to grow back?
|
| A |
You can expect normal hair growth to return
completely about 3-4 months after your final
chemotherapy dose.
|
| Q |
Will the new hair growth be like my
original hair after the chemotherapy
treatments? |
| A |
The returning hair may be different from the
hair that was lost. Due to the absence or
alteration of pigment, the hair may grow back
white, gray or a different color. Eventually, as
the pigment cells return to normal, the original
color should return. Many men and women experience
the returning hair is thicker in texture and
sometimes curly. But, like color, with time it
will return to its original thickness.
|
| Q |
Will I experience any other hair loss?
|
| A |
Hair on the head is most commonly affected but
hair loss may occur on other parts of the body
also.
|
| Q |
What are some of my treatment options once
the hair loss begins? |
| A |
There are several options to consider. Some
people choose to cover their heads with attractive
designer headwear. (Turbans, scarves, caps,
headbands with hair, etc.) Others prefer to
replace their hair.
|
| Q |
What are my options if I choose to replace
my hair? |
| A |
If you choose to replace your hair, there are
two options. First, you can choose a fashionable
wig, or second, you can choose a prosthetic hair
unit.
|
| Q |
Do the wigs look natural? |
| A |
Happily, fakey-looking "wigs" are a thing of
the past. Technology has advanced. Advanced Hair
Solutions offers a wide selection of wigs which
were designed to provide beautiful hair solutions
for today's woman. They have been carefully
handcrafted to ensure a natural look and feel.
Each individual design offers beauty, comfort,
rich colors and distinctive high-lights. You can
look the way you would like. And, you can actually
enhance your self-image.
|
| Q |
What is the difference between human hair
wigs and synthetic wigs? |
| A |
Human hair wigs tend to be more expensive and
need more servicing. Synthetic wigs are less
expensive, easier to style, wash easily, dry
quickly and need less care. Both can look very
natural. A comprehensive evaluation is required to
determine the best hair replacement option for
you.
|
| Q |
What is a cranial prosthesis? |
| A |
A cranial hair prosthesis is a hair system
designed specifically for those suffering from
hair loss due to medical conditions. Prosthesis
contain a combination of fabrics and compounds
that are used to re-create natural hair growth
patterns and the look of the scalp. All materials
in the prosthesis are treated to resist dirt, oils
and body acids while providing maximum comfort.
Cranial hair prosthesis are different than
department store wigs in quality, performance and
service. Prostheses are made with specialized
material sensitive to the needs of the individual.
They come in a variety of colors and styles. The
fit is adjustable to each person's size and is
also custom cut and styled. A department store wig
has a set style - what you see is what you get.
Often, they don't fit correctly and have a heavy,
fuller appearance.
|
| Q |
Are there different types of prostheses
available? |
| A |
There are variations on the types of styles,
but basically three categories of prostheses are
available: Machine-Made, Hand-tied Pre-Designed
and Full Custom. Your hair replacement technician
will assist you in making the best choice for you.
|
| Q |
How long will a prosthesis last? |
| A |
This depends on a number of variables: a
person's lifestyle, occupation, their activities
and proper care. A hair professional will provide
instructions on how to get the most wear and the
very best look possible from your hair prosthesis,
as well as recommend the proper hair care products
to use. Hand-tied prostheses are usually more
durable than machine-made wefts.
|
| Q |
How much will a cranial prosthesis
cost? |
| A |
The cost is determined by the specifications
of the system: size, attachment methods, materials
used in the design, service, etc. The price range
depends on how personalized the prosthesis
is....the more customized, the more the cost.
|
| Q |
Will my cranial prosthesis be covered by
insurance? |
| A |
Insurance companies are realizing that cranial
hair prosthesis are more and more a necessity for
those recovering from Alopecia and cancer
treatment. The topic of insurance will be
discussed during consultation.
|
