Dr. Damkerng Pathomvanich: Pioneering Hair Restoration Surgery in Thailand
Today, when discussing solutions for hair-related concerns such as thinning hair, hair loss, or baldness, hair transplant naturally comes to mind as a leading option. However, many may not realize that 30 years ago, the medical community in Thailand was highly skeptical of hair restoration. Few believed it could be achievable. Yet, there was one doctor who not only made it possible but also laid the foundation for hair restoration surgery in the country. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Damkerng Pathomvanich, the man regarded as a legend and the trailblazer who introduced hair transplantation to Thailand.
The Beginning of Dr. Damkerng’s Journey and His Opportunity to Learn Hair Transplantation from the World’s Pioneers
“I had the opportunity to meet and learn from the world’s very first generation of doctors who pioneered hair transplant surgery. Spending a year studying under them was truly an eye-opening experience, as it was at the only center in the United States at that time that welcomed doctors from around the world to learn hair restoration surgery.”
Dr. Damkerng's medical journey includes significant milestones. Beginning his medical studies in Thailand and passing the ECFMG(Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) exam, he furthered his medical training in the United States. After successfully obtaining his certification from the American Board of Surgery, he found his passion for aesthetic surgery. He pursued this interest by completing a surgical fellowship at the Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Little Rock, Arkansas, through the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). There, he discovered the emerging field of hair restoration. This invaluable experience allowed Dr. Damkerng to gain extensive expertise in both cosmetic surgery and hair transplantation.
Pioneering Hair Transplantation in Thailand
“When I decided to return to Thailand, no one had yet successfully performed hair transplantation in the country, and there were no established standards or protocols. Blazing this field was far from easy. The first challenge was to build trust and show the Thai people that hair restoration was indeed possible.”
Dr. Damkerng spoke about a pivotal moment in his career—the decision to return to Thailand from the United States to pioneer hair transplantation. At that time, no one in the country had successfully performed a hair transplant. His return marked the dawn of this field in Thailand, a journey that was far from easy.
“The challenge was that hair transplantation suffered from a poor reputation at the time. Many attempts had failed, and some procedures resulted in infections or complications. Then, when I suddenly proclaimed, ‘I can do this, trust me, the patients will be happy,’ it was naturally difficult to command immediate trust.”
Yet, through a combination of experience and a bit of luck, he was invited to give a lecture on hair transplantation at the Medical Association of Thailand. Among the attendees was a senior doctor who became interested in undergoing a hair transplant and reached out to him. That day marked the veritable beginning of hair transplantation in Thailand, and the procedure was a success. Gradually, more doctors became interested in undergoing hair transplants themselves, and the practice gradually expanded to the general public. Over time, this gradually enhanced the reputation and public perception of hair transplant surgery in Thailand, earning wider recognition and acceptance.
“Later, in the United States, the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) was established. It is a global organization bringing together hair restoration doctors from around the world. I had the honor of serving as a member of the Board of Governors of the society.”
Another significant role of Dr. Damkerng is his membership and position as a teaching faculty member in ISHRS, which comprises over a thousand hair transplant surgeons worldwide. This organization has established a training institute for hair, offering courses to doctors from around the world. For over 15 years, Dr. Damkerng has made extensive contributions through teaching, research, authoring medical textbooks, and developing surgical techniques, including Laser Hairline Design and advanced suturing methods.
In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Golden Follicle Award for Outstanding Contribution in the Field of Hair Restoration Surgery by ISHRS in 2010. This prestigious award is the society’s highest honor, given to only one doctor among over a thousand members that year. To date, Dr. Damkerng remains the only doctor from Asia to have received this distinction.
Hair Restoration in a Hospital Setting: Safer and More Reassuring
“Although I am highly skilled in hair transplantation, I am not a specialist in other medical conditions. If a patient undergoing a hair transplant has pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, or if an emergency arises during the procedure, it is crucial to have comprehensive medical support available. Additionally, many patients require general anesthesia during the procedure, which necessitates continuous monitoring by an anesthesiologist. For these reasons, having a hair transplant performed in a hospital setting provides greater safety and peace of mind for patients.”
Dr. Damkerng’s most recent role is the Director of the Hair Restoration Center at MedPark Hospital. He highlighted the safety advantages of choosing a hospital for hair transplantation, noting that MedPark’s Hair Restoration Center offers specialized doctors, nurses, and facilities, including state-of-the-art operating, hair washing, and consultation rooms. Every aspect is meticulously maintained to ensure cleanliness, safety, and compliance with international standards.
Hair transplantation in a hospital setting is particularly well-suited for patients with underlying health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, who may require specialized care. A hospital ensures that, should any unforeseen complication arise, patients can be seamlessly referred to the appropriate specialists without delay, guaranteeing comprehensive and continuous care.
“Hair transplantation is much like planting a tree. It takes time. As doctors, it is our role to stand beside patients throughout the journey, offering reassurance, encouragement, and confidence that the transplanted hair will grow naturally and beautifully. Patience is key. There is no need for worry. We have been performing this procedure with success for many years.”
Even after more than three decades as a distinguished hair restoration specialist, Dr. Damkerng continues to perform procedures with exceptional speed and precision -qualities that remain truly world-class. He shared his personal approach to maintaining health and vitality.
“I usually swim, and I particularly enjoy wading in the water. I also cycle, and in my daily life, I make it a point to take as many steps as I can. For instance, even though there are elevators at my workplace, I choose to take the stairs to stay active. I am mindful to follow a healthy, balanced diet.”
