READ DR. DONOVAN’S PRACTICE PHILOSOPHY
READ THE 23 PRINCIPLES THAT GOVERN DR. DONOVAN’S PRACTICE
1. We believe, without exception, that all individuals considering treatment for their hair loss need a proper and thorough evaluation and guidance by a physician specifically trained in the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss. There are over 100 reasons for hair loss and many conditions are challenging to distinguish and many conditions are treated in completely different manner. Dr. Donovan has provided care to patients with all types of hair loss - both common and extremely rare. Each and every day, our clinic treats patients with some of the most complex, unusual and rare types of hair loss. Minoxidil is not a good option for every type of hair loss. Pills, tablets, laser and shampoos are not a good option for every type of hair loss. Hair transplantation is not a good option for every type of hair loss. But every type of hair loss has potential options.
2. We believe in putting our patients first. The proper treatment is what matters to us, not the treatment that is available within the walls of our office. Our patients are given time to discuss their concerns and appropriate time is allotted for a thorough and complete examination. We not only provide highly professional care to patients but also provide care in a manner that allows us to form relationships rooted in trust.
3. We believe that there is an 'ideal treatment plan' for every patient. The ideal treatment plan must not only incorporate the physician's understanding of hair medicine and the patient's specific type of hair loss .... but must also taken into account the patients wishes, lifestyle, general health, age and finances. We work to connect each patient with the appropriate treatment based on many factors and we think broadly so that plan encompasses both the short-term and long-term. It's not uncommon for two patients with the same hair loss condition to leave our office with different recommendations. We also believe that some treatments just don't belong on any ideal treatment plan - no matter the factors discussed between the patient and physician. For this reason, you won't see low level laser therapy or hair supplements used as starting points in our patients with alopecia areata or scarring alopecia. You won't see very young patients with genetic hair loss or patients with active scarring alopecia referred for hair transplant surgery. You won't see platelet rich plasma (PRP) used as a first-line treatment for any patient who has not first considered other treatments. Surprisingly, we do recommend each and every one of these treatments in our clinic - but only to the right patient and the right time. There truly is a time and place for everything.
4. We believe we can do better. Having had the privilege of helping many individuals with hair loss, we understand the limitations of modern medicine. We see these limitations not as roadblocks but rather as platforms on which to launch new studies. We have an active program of hair research that helps us participate in a much bigger goal - to improve the way hair loss is treated in the future.
