Hair Restoration Surgery: Ethical Advertising and Quality of Service

In 1998, Dr. Randall S. Sword, a Diplomat of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, expressed concern over the trend of advertising hair restoration services based on cost per graft, rather than the quality of service. He noted that advancements in the field over the previous 12 years had made achieving a natural appearance with greater density more realistic and affordable. However, he criticized the price war among physicians, arguing that it reduced the specialty to a commodity, confused patients, and damaged the reputation of the field. He also warned that once a price is dropped, it cannot be increased again. In response, another professional agreed with Dr. Sword's points, hoping that the focus would shift from price to the value and quality of service. Both professionals advocated for ethical advertising and behavior in the field of hair restoration.