Can Skull Reductions Cause Increased Hair Growth?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am writing to inquire about a particular subject of interest that pertains to your expertise. I am curious to explore whether there have been cases where bone reduction procedures have led to observed hair regrowth or an increase in hair thickness in areas where such procedures were performed, especially concerning male pattern baldness.

My curiosity stems from a personal conviction that bone growth might play a contributory role in male pattern baldness. This conviction arises from my own experiences as I have noticed a correlation between overdeveloped bone ridges in certain areas of my head and the occurrence of male pattern baldness. Comparatively, I have observed this phenomenon to be less prevalent in individuals without such pronounced bone structures.

Additionally, I have come across information on hairgrowthsos.com that discusses this correlation between bone structure and hair loss. Moreover, a relevant article in the doctor journal further elaborates on this intersection between bone development and hair loss, contributing to my interest in exploring this subject further.

I would greatly appreciate your insights or any pertinent information you might offer on this topic.

Thanks for your time and consideration.

A: Having done hundreds of skull reductions, all of which have been in men, I have yet to hear back from a patient about hair regrowth or an accelerated amount of hair growth after the surgery. This does not mean that it may not have occurred…just that no patient has yet mentioned that phenomenon. Having a worldwide practice we only see most patients in a virtual manner so I don’ have the opportunity for a close in office assessment of their head shape and scalp hair  after surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon