HAIR TRANSPLANTATION

What is hair transplant?

Hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves transferring hair follicles from one part of the body (known as the donor site) to another area where hair is thinning or balding (recipient site). There are two primary techniques used for hair transplantation:

• Follicular unit transplant (FUT):-Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), also known as Follicular Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS), is a hair transplantation technique where a strip of scalp skin, typically from the back of the head, is surgically removed. This strip, usually 6-10 inches in size, is then dissected into smaller units called "grafts." These grafts containing hair follicles are subsequently implanted into the recipient area where hair restoration is desired.
• Follicular unit extraction (FUE):-Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a procedure where hair follicles are individually harvested from the back of the head. The surgeon then makes small incisions in the recipient area where hair is to be transplanted, and the extracted follicles are placed into these incisions. Following the surgery, the treated area is covered with a bandage. Depending on the specific transplant technique used, the entire procedure may last between 6 to 8 hours.

What do I expect after hair transplantation surgery?

Since it's a surgical procedure, you'll need some time to recover. You can typically return home on the same day as the surgery, but it's advisable to rest for a few days afterward. Your doctor may schedule a follow-up appointment to remove the bandages from the surgical site. They will also prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and aid in the healing process. Generally, you can plan to return to work after about 4-5 days post-surgery.

Around 2-3 weeks after the surgery, it's normal for some hairs to fall out. However, this is part of the process. New hair growth can typically be expected within 3-4 months post-surgery. Generally, about 60% of new hair growth occurs between 6-9 months after the procedure. The full results of hair transplantation become visible within 12-18 months.

Is a hair transplant procedure difficult?

The procedure is straightforward yet time-consuming, typically lasting 6-8 hours depending on the number of grafts to be transplanted. A crucial aspect of the process involves discussing your desired outcome and ensuring that every effort is made to achieve that expectation. This requires the experience and skill of the surgeon.

Advantage of FUE over FUT

• This cutting-edge technique is the most advanced available.
• It's minimally invasive and causes less discomfort.
• Healing occurs more rapidly compared to traditional methods.
• The procedure results in minimal scarring.
• No stitches are needed, reducing the risk of complications significantly.

Following can be considered good candidate for hair transplant:

• Men experiencing male pattern baldness, typically with a grade greater than 2.
• Women with thinning hair or noticeable hair loss in a specific pattern.
• Individuals facing hair loss as a result of burns or surgical procedures.

Following are not good candidates for hair transplantation

• Women experiencing extensive hair loss across the scalp.
• Individuals, both men and women, who lack sufficient hair at donor sites.
• Hair loss caused by medications such as chemotherapy.
• Patients developing thick scars in areas where transplantation is needed.

Is a hair transplant permanent?

Absolutely, hair transplant is widely regarded as the most effective and durable solution for pattern hair loss. The procedure involves transplanting your own hair, which is resistant to hormonal effects, to the balding area, ensuring long-lasting results. However, incorrect selection of donor hair or improper implantation techniques may occasionally lead to premature loss of transplanted hair.