Everything You Need to Know Before Considering a Hair Transplant
If you’re considering a hair transplant, you’re not alone. Thinning hair and balding affect millions of people, and it’s natural to seek solutions that offer a permanent fix. A hair transplant is a popular choice for those who want to regain a fuller head of hair. Here’s what you need to know about this transformative procedure.
Understanding Hair Transplants
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure where hair follicles are removed from a part of the body, known as the ‘donor site’, and transplanted to the bald or balding part, known as the ‘recipient site’. It’s predominantly used to treat male pattern baldness but is also suitable for women and to restore eyebrows, eyelashes, and beard hair.
The two most common techniques for hair transplants are Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): In FUT, a strip of skin containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area, typically the back of the head. The strip is then divided into individual grafts, which are implanted into the balding area.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): This technique involves removing individual hair follicles directly from the scalp using a specialised extraction instrument. These follicles are then implanted directly into the bald areas.
Both methods have their advantages. FUT typically allows for more follicles to be transplanted in a single session and is generally less expensive, while FUE does not leave a linear scar and is preferred by those who like to wear their hair very short.
Who Can Undergo a Hair Transplant?
The ideal candidate for a hair transplant has stable hair growth at the back and sides of the head, as these areas serve as the donor sites. It’s important for potential candidates to have realistic expectations. A hair transplant can significantly improve your appearance, but it won’t give you the same density you had in your youth.
Individuals with diffuse hair loss, active scalp conditions like lupus, or those who do not have enough healthy donor hair are generally discouraged from undergoing a hair transplant.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before undergoing a hair transplant, you’ll need a detailed consultation with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon specialising in hair restoration. This assessment will help determine the most effective intervention for you. You might be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, several weeks before the surgery. Smoking and alcohol consumption also need to be paused to enhance healing post-surgery.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Hair transplant procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia with an option of sedation. You can expect the surgery to last between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the extent of the transplant.
In FUT, after the strip of scalp is removed and the donor area is sutured closed, the surgeon will dissect the strip to prepare the individual grafts. Meanwhile, in FUE, a small circular punch is used to extract follicular units one by one from the scalp.
These grafts are then meticulously placed into tiny incisions made in the balding areas of the scalp. The strategic placement of these grafts is crucial for achieving a natural-looking hairline.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
Post-surgery, your scalp may be tender, and you may need to take medications for pain, antibiotics to prevent infection, and anti-inflammatory medications to keep swelling down. The surgeon will have you wear bandages over your scalp for at least a day or two.
Most people can return to work several days after surgery, but it’s crucial to avoid any vigorous physical activity for at least a week. The transplanted hair will fall out after two to three weeks; this is normal and clears the way for new growth. You can expect to see new hair growth within a few months, although it might take 6 to 12 months to see the full results of the transplant.
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, hair transplants come with several risks, such as bleeding, infection, scarring, and the possibility of unnatural-looking tufts of hair. Choosing a qualified surgeon is crucial, as it significantly minimises these risks. The cost of a hair transplant is another important consideration, as it can be quite high.
