What is a trichology consultation
Trichology is the field of medicine dedicated to the study of hair and the scalp. A trichology consultation is not just a conversation about hair loss: it is a structured clinical examination that seeks to identify the type of alopecia, its cause and the stage it has reached.
The goal is to give the patient a clear answer: can the hair that has been lost grow back? Is medical treatment needed, surgery, or both? How long will it take to see results?
What we assess during the consultation
Every case of hair loss has its own story. Dr Fátima Garcês begins by understanding when the shedding started, whether it is diffuse or localised, and whether there is a family history, illness, medication, stress or hormonal changes involved.
- Pattern of hair loss: receding hairline, crown, widening parting or patches
- Condition of the scalp: flaking, inflammation, scarring or signs of miniaturisation
- Hair quality: thickness, colour, fragility and the presence of miniaturised hairs
- Clinical history and recent blood test results
How the diagnosis is carried out
After the clinical interview, trichoscopy is performed — a magnified, photographed examination of the scalp. This test allows us to see the follicles, measure hair density and identify signs typical of each type of alopecia.
When necessary, blood tests are requested to rule out systemic causes: iron, ferritin, thyroid function, vitamin D, zinc and, for women, hormonal profile. Only once this data has been gathered is the plan defined.
- Standardised clinical photography to track progress over time
- Digital trichoscopy with a record of the areas of greatest thinning
- Blood tests requested when indicated
- Discussion of the plan: expectations, timeline and treatment options
Who should book a trichology consultation
The consultation is suitable for anyone who notices changes in their hair or scalp, even if the shedding is still mild. The earlier the cause is identified, the greater the chances of halting progression and restoring density without surgery.
- Persistent hair loss lasting more than three months
- Early-stage family history of androgenetic alopecia
- Widening parting or thinning at the crown
- Round bald patches or significant flaking
- Intense shedding after stress, childbirth, surgery or a change in medication
After the consultation: the treatment plan
The plan is written down and explained to the patient. It may include medical treatment — hair mesotherapy, PRP, photobiomodulation or topical/oral therapy — or, in areas with no viable follicle, an FUE hair transplant or Biofibre®.
Replace Clinic follows up with each patient for 18 months, with photographic reviews to objectively measure progress.