How do doctors hair transplants?
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves the transfer of hair follicles from one area of the body (the donor site) to another area of the body (the recipient site). It is typically used to treat hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness), but can also be used to treat other forms of hair loss such as alopecia areata, scarring alopecia, and eyebrow loss.
There are two main types of hair transplant techniques: follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE).
Follicular unit transplantation (FUT)
In FUT, a strip of scalp is removed from the donor site, typically from the back or side of the head. The strip is then dissected into small grafts, each containing one to four hair follicles. These grafts are then implanted into the recipient site, where they will grow new hair.
FUT is a more traditional method of hair transplantation and is typically less expensive than FUE. However, it can also result in a more noticeable scar at the donor site.
Follicular unit extraction (FUE)
In FUE, individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor site using a small punch tool. This allows for a more natural appearance and eliminates the need for a linear scar at the donor site. However, FUE is a more time-consuming procedure and can be more expensive than FUT.
The type of hair transplant technique that is used will depend on the individual's needs and preferences.
Hair transplant procedure
The hair transplant procedure typically takes several hours to complete and is performed under local anesthesia. The recipient site is first numbed, and then the hair grafts are implanted one by one. The grafts are placed very close to each other, so the transplanted hair will appear natural.
After the procedure, the scalp will be bandaged and the patient will be given instructions on how to care for the transplanted hair. The bandage will be removed after a few days, and the patient will be able to wash their hair and style it as usual.
Recovery after a hair transplant
The recovery time after a hair transplant procedure is typically short. Most patients experience some swelling and bruising around the donor and recipient sites, which typically subsides within a few days. The transplanted hair may also fall out temporarily, but this is normal and the hair will eventually grow back.
Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a few days of the procedure. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks to allow the transplanted hair to heal properly.
Success rates of hair transplants
The success rate of hair transplants is typically very high, with most patients achieving a natural-looking head of hair. However, the success of the procedure can depend on a number of factors, including the skill of the surgeon, the type of hair transplant technique that is used, and the patient's individual healing response.
Hair transplantation is a safe and effective procedure that can help to restore hair growth and improve a person's appearance.