Diagnostic Services
Hair Biopsy
A diagnostic scalp biopsy to identify the underlying cause of your hair loss — so your treatment plan is built on certainty, not guesswork.
Dr. Robert Drummond, MD/PhD
Hair Restoration · Beverly Hills
What is a hair biopsy?
A hair biopsy — also called a scalp biopsy — is a simple diagnostic procedure where a small sample of scalp tissue is removed and examined under a microscope by a dermatopathologist. The biopsy reveals the precise type and stage of hair loss, the condition of your follicles, and whether inflammation, scarring, or other factors are contributing to your hair loss.
This is especially valuable for patients whose hair loss doesn't follow a typical pattern, or when the cause is unclear. A biopsy can distinguish between androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, cicatricial (scarring) alopecia, telogen effluvium, and other conditions — each of which requires a fundamentally different treatment approach.
At Crown Hair Institute, Dr. Drummond performs scalp biopsies in our Beverly Hills office. The procedure takes approximately 15–20 minutes, requires only local anesthesia, and involves a tiny punch biopsy (2–4mm) that heals quickly with minimal scarring.
Who is this for?
A hair biopsy is ideal for patients who:
- ✓Want to understand the underlying cause of their hair loss before starting treatment
- ✓Have hair loss that doesn't follow a typical male or female pattern
- ✓Suspect an autoimmune or inflammatory condition may be involved
- ✓Have been losing hair and haven't received a definitive diagnosis
- ✓Want peace of mind and a clear path forward based on clinical evidence
Investment
$375
Includes biopsy procedure, laboratory analysis, and results review with Dr. Drummond.
Location: This procedure is performed in-person at our Beverly Hills office. Available for patients who live in the Los Angeles area or can travel to LA.
Procedure time: Approximately 15–20 minutes.
Results: Typically available within 7–10 business days. Dr. Drummond will review your results and discuss treatment options during a follow-up appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt?
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The area is numbed with local anesthesia before the biopsy. You may feel a slight pinch during the injection, but the biopsy itself is painless. Most patients describe it as very tolerable.
Will it leave a scar?
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The punch biopsy site is very small (2–4mm) and heals quickly. In most cases, any mark is virtually invisible once healed, especially in areas with surrounding hair.
How soon will I get my results?
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Results are typically available within 7–10 business days. Dr. Drummond will schedule a follow-up to review your results in detail and discuss next steps.
Can I get a biopsy virtually?
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No — a scalp biopsy requires an in-person visit to our Beverly Hills office. However, the follow-up results review can be conducted virtually if preferred.
Do I need a biopsy before a hair transplant?
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Not always. A biopsy is most useful when the cause of hair loss is uncertain or atypical. For patients with classic androgenetic alopecia, a clinical exam is usually sufficient to proceed with treatment planning.
Your transformation starts
with a conversation.
30 minutes with Dr. Drummond. A custom plan for your hair type and goals. No obligation, no pressure — backed by the Crown Promise.
No commitment required · Virtual consultations available
Send us a message.