An increasing number of unlicensed personnel worldwide are performing substantial medical aspects of hair restoration surgery and, in doing so, are putting patients at risk. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) is committed to the highest standards of medical practice, and to educating consumers about this unlawful practice. The ISHRS encourages consumers to follow due diligence when researching a hair restoration surgeon.

ISHRS Position Statement on Qualifications for Scalp Surgery

The position of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery is that any procedure involving a skin incision for the purpose of tissue removal from the scalp or body, or to prepare the scalp or body to receive tissue, (e.g., incising the FUE graft, excising the donor strip, creating recipient sites) by any means, including robotics, is a surgical procedure. Such procedures must be performed by a properly trained and licensed physician (or in countries where it is allowed, a licensed allied health professional practicing within the scope of his or her license).

Physicians who perform hair restoration surgery must possess the education, training, and current competency in the field of hair restoration surgery. It is beyond the scope of practice for non-licensed personnel to perform surgery. Surgery performed by non-licensed medical personnel may be considered practicing medicine without a license under applicable law. The ISHRS supports the scope of practice of medicine as defined by a physician's state, country or local legally governing board of medicine.

By signing this petition you are agreeing with the ISHRS's Position Statement (www.ishrs.org/content/qualifications-scalp-surgery) on the Qualifications for Scalp Surgery.