If you've recently been diagnosed with cancer and your doctor has mentioned potential hair loss from chemotherapy, you've likely been advised to schedule a medical wig consultation. But what actually happens at one of these appointments? For many Canadian women facing this situation for the first time, the unknown can feel intimidating.
After 28+ years of helping thousands of Canadian women through their hair loss journey, we understand that walking into your first wig appointment can feel emotional, overwhelming, and sometimes even isolating. You're not just shopping for a product—you're preparing for a significant change during an already challenging time in your life.
This guide will walk you through exactly what to expect at your first medical wig appointment, helping you feel prepared, informed, and empowered to make the best decisions for your unique situation.
Before Your Appointment: What to Bring and How to Prepare
Preparation can help you feel more in control and ensure you get the most from your consultation. Here's what we recommend bringing to your first medical wig appointment:
Photos of your hair: Bring several photos showing your hair from different angles—front, back, and sides. Include images from various stages of your life if possible. These help your wig specialist understand your natural hair colour, texture, density, and styling preferences. Photos are especially valuable if you're scheduling your appointment before significant hair loss occurs.
Your diagnosis letter or prescription: If you're seeking wig insurance coverage, you'll need documentation from your oncologist or dermatologist. In Canada, many private insurance plans and some provincial programmes cover medical wigs for cancer patients, but they require proof of medical necessity.
Your insurance information: Bring your insurance card and any relevant policy documents. Your wig specialist can help you understand your coverage and assist with paperwork. Many Canadian insurance providers cover between $500-$3,000 for wigs for cancer patients, though coverage varies significantly.
A trusted companion: Consider bringing a close friend or family member. They can offer emotional support, provide a second opinion on how different wigs look, and help you remember important information. Medical appointments during cancer treatment can be emotionally taxing, and having someone by your side makes a meaningful difference.
Questions you want answered: Write down any concerns or questions beforehand. When you're in the appointment, emotions and information overload can make it easy to forget what you wanted to ask.
The Initial Consultation: Understanding Your Needs and Timeline
Your medical wig appointment typically begins with a private, compassionate conversation about your situation. At Enhanced Hair, we dedicate 60-90 minutes to first-time consultations because we believe rushing this process serves no one.
Your specialist will ask about your diagnosis, treatment timeline, and when hair loss is expected to begin. For chemotherapy patients, hair loss typically starts 2-3 weeks after the first treatment, though this varies depending on the specific drugs used. Understanding your timeline helps determine when you should have your wig ready.
You'll discuss your lifestyle, activity level, and comfort priorities. Are you still working? Do you exercise regularly? Do you have young children? These factors influence which wig cap constructions and securing methods work best for your daily life.
This is also when you'll talk about your hair goals. Some women want to replicate their current hairstyle exactly, maintaining a sense of normalcy and continuity. Others view this as an opportunity to try something they've always wanted—perhaps longer hair, a different colour, or a style they've admired but never felt brave enough to try.
There's no right or wrong answer. Your wig specialist is there to help you achieve whatever makes you feel most like yourself—or the version of yourself you want to be during this journey.
Head Measurements and Wig Sizing: Getting the Perfect Fit
Proper fit is crucial for both comfort and natural appearance, so your specialist will take detailed head measurements. This process is straightforward and non-invasive.
Using a soft measuring tape, they'll measure the circumference of your head, from your front hairline, around the back, and back to the starting point. They'll also measure from front to nape, ear to ear across the top, and temple to temple across the back. These measurements help determine your base cap size.
Most medical wigs come in petite, average, and large cap sizes, with many offering adjustable tabs for fine-tuning. Some women require custom-sized wigs, which are made to order based on these precise measurements.
If you still have your natural hair, your specialist will discuss whether you'll keep it during treatment or shave it before significant loss occurs. Many women find that shaving their hair proactively gives them a sense of control and makes wig fitting easier, though this is entirely a personal choice.
Your specialist may also take photos for your file (with your permission), which helps track your journey and provides reference points if you need additional pieces later.
Trying On Wigs: Finding Your Perfect Match
This is typically the most time-intensive part of your appointment, and it should be. You'll try on multiple wigs to explore different styles, colours, lengths, and cap constructions.
Your specialist will guide you through various options based on your consultation discussion, but you should feel free to try anything that interests you. Many women are surprised by what actually looks good versus what they expected to prefer.
When trying on wigs, your specialist will help you understand what to look for:
Hairline appearance: The front hairline is crucial for a natural look. Lace front wigs offer the most realistic hairline, with hand-tied individual hairs that mimic natural hair growth. Your specialist will show you how to position the wig properly so the hairline sits naturally on your forehead.
Colour matching: If you're matching your natural colour, your specialist will help you find the perfect shade. Wigs can be slightly customized with highlighting or lowlighting if needed. Remember that your natural hair colour may have multiple tones, and the best match often includes subtle variation rather than a single flat colour.
Cap comfort: You'll learn about different cap constructions—traditional wefted caps, monofilament tops, and fully hand-tied caps. Each offers different benefits for comfort, breathability, and styling versatility. For cancer patients experiencing scalp sensitivity, hand-tied and monofilament constructions are often most comfortable.
Weight and feel: Human hair wigs feel different from synthetic wigs. Your specialist will explain the maintenance requirements, longevity, and styling capabilities of each. Many Canadian women choose synthetic wigs for their low maintenance and affordability, while others prefer human hair for its natural movement and heat-styling versatility.
Don't rush this process. Wear each wig for a few minutes, move your head around, and look at yourself from all angles. Your specialist may use a three-way mirror so you can see the back and sides clearly.
Styling, Customization, and Final Adjustments
Once you've selected your wig, your specialist will discuss customization options. Most wigs require some styling to look their best and feel truly personalized.
Your wig can be cut, layered, and styled to complement your face shape and personal preferences. If you're purchasing before hair loss occurs, some specialists recommend waiting until after your hair is gone to do final cutting and styling, ensuring the most accurate fit and look.
Colouring and highlighting are possible with human hair wigs, though many women find they can achieve their desired look by choosing the right base colour with pre-blended tones.
Your specialist will show you how to put on and remove your wig properly, adjust the sizing tabs for a secure fit, and use any additional securing methods if desired. Many women use wig tape, gel bands, or non-slip wig liners for extra security, especially if they're active or concerned about windy weather.
You'll receive care instructions specific to your wig type. Proper maintenance significantly extends your wig's lifespan and keeps it looking natural and beautiful throughout your treatment.
Understanding Costs, Insurance, and Next Steps
Before you leave, you'll receive a detailed breakdown of costs. Medical wigs in Canada range from approximately $300 for quality synthetic options to $3,000+ for premium human hair wigs. Your specialist will work within your budget while ensuring you get a wig that meets your needs.
If you're using insurance, your specialist will help you complete necessary paperwork. Many Canadian clinics can direct bill your insurance company or provide receipts for reimbursement. Understanding the insurance process before you commit helps prevent unexpected costs.
You'll schedule any necessary follow-up appointments for final styling, adjustments, or questions. Most medical wig providers offer ongoing support throughout your treatment journey, including tightening or loosening your wig as your head size changes (which can happen during chemotherapy).
Many clinics also discuss additional hair loss solutions you might need, such as hair toppers for when your hair begins growing back, eyebrow solutions, or nighttime comfort caps.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Your first medical wig appointment is an important step in your cancer journey, but it's just one step. You're not just getting a wig—you're connecting with professionals who understand what you're facing and are committed to supporting you through this transition.
At Enhanced Hair, we've walked alongside thousands of Canadian women through medical hair loss, and we've seen firsthand how the right wig, properly fitted and beautifully styled, can restore not just appearance but confidence and emotional wellbeing during treatment.
If you're not sure you're ready for an in-person appointment, we also offer virtual consultations, allowing you to explore options from the comfort of home. Many women find this less overwhelming as a first step, especially if they're early in their diagnosis journey.
Remember, there's no perfect time to schedule your appointment—only the time that feels right for you. Some women prefer to be proactive and have their wig ready before hair loss begins. Others wait until they're further into treatment. Both approaches are valid.
What matters most is that you feel supported, informed, and empowered to make decisions that honour your needs and preferences during this challenging time.
Ready to take the next step? Book your free consultation with one of our experienced wig specialists. We're here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you find a solution that makes you feel beautiful and confident throughout your treatment journey.