Choosing a hair restoration surgeon is a crucial decision, and reviewing "Before & After" photos is an essential step in the process. However, it's not enough to look at generic results; you must find patients with similar hair characteristics to yours. Hair restoration is both an art and a science, and how a surgeon handles straight, fine hair differs from how they approach thick, curly, or Afro-textured hair.

Hair types are typically categorized by the Ludwig or Norwood scales for loss patterns and by texture/curl pattern, ranging from Type 1 Straight to Type 4 Coily.

- Straight/Fine Hair (Type 1-2): These patients often need higher graft density due to the thinness of each hair. The angle of exit must be precise to avoid a doll-like appearance.
- Wavy/Coarse Hair (Type 2-3): Ideal donor hair with natural wave providing better coverage with fewer grafts.
- Curly/Afro-Textured Hair (Type 4): Technically demanding due to the curling of hair follicles, requiring careful extraction to avoid high transection rates.

When evaluating "Before & After" photos, focus on technical details:

- Hairline Design: Look for a natural hairline that matches the patient's age and facial structure, avoiding thick plugs at the front.
- Density vs. Coverage: Check for close-up shots under bright lighting to assess density in the crown and mid-scalp.
- Donor Area: Ensure the donor area doesn't appear over-harvested or scarred.

For specific hair types:

- Afro-Textured Hair (Type 4): Look for voluminous results without scarring.
- Straight/Light-Colored Hair: Check for clean hairlines without visible scarring.
- Asian/Coarse Hair: Assess how the surgeon maximized limited donor supply in visible areas.

Beware of photo manipulation tactics like different lighting, hair styling products, and wet vs. dry hair. Request to see live results or video testimonials for a more accurate representation of the outcome.

In conclusion, matching your hair type with the surgeon's expertise is crucial for realistic expectations. Insist on reviewing cases similar to your hair characteristics to ensure the best possible results.