Interview Times 
The medical world is illuminated by the greatness of Dr. Alok Sahoo, a dermatologist of great renown and an undoubted master of hair care. Dr Sahoo is a versatile specialist who expertly combines scientific accuracy and creative flare, making him stand out not just as a doctor but also as an artist of well-being and confidence. His work is not only about curing illness; it is a voyage of change in which the stories of his patients become a painting created by his skilful hands.
Testimonials from satisfied clients speak to Dr. Alok’s status as a visionary in the area, as does the glowing confidence flowing from individuals who have received his life-changing care. In a world where science and beauty collide, Dr. Alok is a model of innovation, making sure that each person who seeks his advice travels the path to eternal beauty and radiant health. Dr Alok is a shining example of creativity in a world where science and beauty collide. He makes sure that everyone who seeks his advice walks the path to timeless appeal and radiant health. He ensures that each patient under his care is left with better skin and hair as well as a revived sense of inner beauty. He is a protector of self-worth, a keeper of confidence, and an artist of well-being. Read on to learn more about him.
Could you provide me an outline of your background as a hair specialist, including your education and training in hair transplantation?
I completed my intermediate studies at BJB Junior College, BBSR, after finishing my schooling. I attended medical school after completing my basic education, earning my MBBS from Veer Surendra Sai Medical College in Sambalpur. I became a dermatologist after passing the All India Institute of Medical Science exam on my first try. I studied for three years in this course and then completed two years of senior residency in the same field. During this time, I gained excellent exposure to handling situations involving skin diseases, laser treatment, skin surgery, and hair treatment.I also finished my stem cell thesis project during this learning, which needed an understanding of regenerative medicine.
Because hair is known to be a very rich source of stem cells, I became interested in learning more about it and eventually conducted some basic research on hair as well. Later, after completing my senior residency, I joined a fellowship for hair transplantation, which essentially dealt with all aspects of hair restoration, such as hair transplantation, hair loss management, and hair regeneration. We also conducted some basic research on stem cell therapy during this time. I received training in born transplantation, body hair transplantation, hair transplantation for both men and women and transplantation for specific conditions like burn scars. In essence, we performed all types of treatments. For the past five years, I have focused largely on skin surgery, hair transplantation, and all aspects of treating skin conditions.
What are the most common reasons patients seek hair transplantation and how do you assess whether they are suitable candidates for the procedure?
An aspect of the hair restoration process is hair transplantation. Hair restoration includes hair loss management, which involves medication or therapy, as well as various surgical procedures. There is a spectrum of hair loss. If a person’s root density is thinned in its early stages, medication may be used as a therapy. However, if root loss has advanced and a person loses their roots and develops proper baldness, medication is ineffective, and hair transplantation must be planned.
People often assume that anybody can get hair transplantation, but not everyone is suitable for the procedure. One of the key factors in determining whether or not to undergo hair transplantation is the individual. Typically, we begin by inspecting the donor area on the back of the scalp before moving it to the front. This allows us to state that the donor is crucial because, in the event that a donor does not have enough graph to complete the transplant, we will not be able to proceed with the treatment.
Before doing surgery, we also consider the patient’s age. In most cases, we don’t operate on patients under the age of 25, but in a few exceptions, such as when a patient is completely bald, we may undertake the necessary procedure.
In rare cases, if a patient has a specific skin disease and there is permanent damage to the roots (known as scarring alopecia), we attempt to treat them or minimize the damage before doing the transplant.
These are a few factors we check before performing surgery.
What innovation or technological advancement have you embraced in your practice to enhance the effectiveness and patient experience of hair transplantation?
Over the past ten years, hair transplants have gained popularity in India. The technology used for hair transplantation has advanced significantly, and if the procedure is performed by a qualified professional, the results are entirely natural and healthy. One such advancement in technique is the magnification lope that is used during the procedure. Today, we use cutting-edge technology known as real-time fue, which has a graph survival rate of 92% to 99%. We also utilize specialized implementers that guarantee little mechanical damage to the graph, allowing it to expand steadily and at a greater growth rate.
All of the surgeries at our clinic are carried out by me. I manage the operation with the help of my team and technicians.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and research in the field of hair restoration, and how do you integrate this knowledge into your practice?
Initially, the standard procedure was used, followed by microsurgery and mini-surgery. I frequently attend international conferences where experts from all over the world gather to share knowledge, publish papers, and discuss emerging technologies. These conferences keep us informed about current events and novel techniques, which we then apply to our practice following research. Additionally, every time we advance technology and practise to benefit and better serve the patient. Our field of work combines science and creative abilities, and we constantly strive to provide our patients with the finest care possible while using affordable methods.
Do you offer non-surgical hair restoration options and how do you guide patients in choosing between surgical and non-surgical solutions?
As we have previously discussed, not all patients are candidates for hair transplantation. For those who are not, I always recommend patches. Medical management is another non-surgical option; if you receive it in the early stages, you may still be able to improve your hair quality even though you have not lost much. Additionally, I will advise people to avoid engaging in online medical management or treatment since, following hair loss, some individuals will attempt any means to regain it, and because some online platforms take advantage of this, I would always advise consulting a dermatologist and other certified professionals for your treatment.
Are there any specific cases or situations in hair restoration that you find particularly rewarding or challenging?
Our main challenge has been dealing with the false promises made to consumers about hair restoration in the market, such as unlimited graphs and 0% EMI. However, people should be aware that hair transplantation is a one-time procedure; if you do it incorrectly, you will not be able to have another surgery once the donor is exhausted. Thus, I will advise everyone to conduct thorough research, suggest seeing a reputable doctor, and then wait for the results. Avoid using fraudulent internet treatments.
Ghost surgery is the phrase used to describe a procedure where people are hired to do the surgery instead of the appropriate doctor. This takes place in India. We constantly make pupils aware of the existence of these kinds of things and counsel them to conduct sufficient research before acting. The burn caused by acid or chemical Patients who come to our clinic receive free surgery and assistance because I believe that the scars they have are not only external but also deeply ingrained, and they will have to deal with them for the rest of their lives. For this reason, I always try to do my part and help them heal partially through surgery.
Numerous items of all kinds for hair growth and care are popping up in digital media; how relevant are they, in your opinion?
An efficient marketing team works with their own team member and hires reputable artists to promote items and provide testimonials that the public finds relevant. However, the images are all Photoshopped, making them difficult for many people to understand. I’ll advise everyone to conduct thorough research, identify the kind of hair damage they have, and then proceed with treatment plans. Because every person has unique problems that require distinct approaches to solve, a single product will not be effective for everyone.
