Hair transplantation is a surgical technique that moves individual hair follicles from the "donor area" to the balding "recipient area" of the body. This technique is commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. Transplanted hair follicles are resistant to testosterone, the hormone responsible for balding, so the back of the head is considered the ideal donor area.
Factors for Losing Hair
The main reason for hair loss in both men and women is:
1. Hereditary Factor: Losing hair can be genetically predisposed, especially when there is a family history among relatives.
2. Hormonal Factor: The hormone testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which shortens the hair's anagen phase. This conversion makes the hair weak, and it eventually thins and disappears.
Types of Hair Transplant
FUE Hair Transplant
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is considered the most reliable hair transplant technique. In FUE, grafts are extracted using a micromotor with minute diameters of 0.6/0.8 mm. The grafts are stored in a special solution before being transplanted into the channels made by a technician in the recipient areas.
DHI Hair Transplant
Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) is suitable for minor degrees of hair loss. DHI is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a Choi Implanter Pen to directly implant hair follicles into the recipient areas.
Sapphire Hair Transplant
The Sapphire hair transplant is the advanced version of FUE where the recipient area is opened with sapphire blades to create micro-channels. The sapphire blades are stronger and sharper than steel blades for a longer period. They offer more flexibility and accurate control during the angle of the transplant.
After Hair Transplantation
The transplanted area should be kept open and the bandage removed the day after surgery. There are no visible scars. Patients are given all the necessary medications and care instructions for the donor area. Washing of hair should not be done before 24 hours, and the first wash is done at the hospital. Transplanted hair may fall after 3-4 weeks, and new hair will grow gradually between 3-6 months. The full results are seen between 9 months to a year.
Hair Transplant FAQ
How long does a hair transplant procedure usually take?
The procedure usually takes about four hours or longer, depending on needs and circumstances.
Why am I so itchy after getting a hair transplant?
It is normal to experience an itchy scalp after a hair transplant. The itchy scalp shows that healing is taking place. It is a histamine response as the scalp heals itself. Avoid scratching the scalp, which will harm the process and affect the newly planted follicles.
Is hair transplant surgery painful?
You are administered local anesthesia before the procedure, which will ensure that it is totally painless. In addition to this, you may be prescribed painkiller medication for after the procedure, if needed. However, you might experience a bit of tenderness after the procedure. Severe pain is not likely to be experienced, and you can manage this with some over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
What is the recovery process like after a hair transplant?
After the surgery, you will be given all instructions regarding aftercare to ensure optimal recovery. You have to wear a bandage for about 24 hours and wash your hair after two days. Let your hair air-dry rather than towel-drying or using a hair dryer. Protect your scalp from sun exposure, and wear a hat when you're outside.
Are there any risks or potential complications associated with hair transplant surgery?
There are certain risks or complications as with any surgical procedure. These include infection, allergic reactions to the anesthesia, bleeding, swelling, and the possibility of failure of the transplant and falling out.
How long does it take to see the final results of a hair transplant?
Results take time, and you have to be patient. Full results from a hair transplant can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to appear. There is some initial shedding, so it is best to be patient and allow time for new hair growth.
Can the transplanted hair be styled and treated like natural hair?
Yes, the hair that has been transplanted is your natural hair; you will be able to cut, style, and dye it as you want once you are out of the recovery phase. Proper care with the right products, such as heat protectors, good shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks, is important.
Are the results of a hair transplant permanent?
The results of hair transplantation are long-lasting, often for a lifetime, but the success of these results relies upon adherence to the aftercare advice, appropriate care for the newly growing hair, and possible medication for hair loss prevention. If neglected or with conditions like alopecia, there can be future hair loss.
Is there anything which can affect the success of a hair transplant?
Several factors can affect the success of a hair transplant, including adherence to aftercare advice, body response to the transplant, the skills of the surgeon, hair thickness, diet, smoking, and stress. Expert aftercare advice will increase the probability of the success of your transplant.
Can women have a hair transplant?
Yes, women can have a hair transplant, but the cause of hair loss must be first fully investigated. Traction alopecia and female pattern hair loss are two conditions that may be successfully addressed with a hair transplant.
Are there any age restrictions to having a hair transplant?
You must be over 18 to book a hair transplant. Most clinics recommend waiting until over 27, as changes between 18 and 27 in the hairline might require further treatment.
How many sessions of hair transplantation may be required to achieve the desired results?
Although hair transplantation is considered a long-lasting solution, a second session is sometimes necessary, particularly in the case of extensive balding or continuous hair loss, often linked to conditions such as male pattern baldness, aging, and stress.
Can body hair be transplanted to the head?
Most body hair is not suitable for grafting, but hair from the beard, chest, or arm can be used if there is an inadequate number of donor hair follicles present on the head. If you have worries regarding the availability of donor grafts, feel free to get in touch with our office for an evaluation.
What kind of lifestyle change or restriction after getting a hair transplant?
After getting a hair transplant, some lifestyle changes are required during the recovery period. Overall, in about two weeks, you can return to your routine activities.
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