Involved in a Hair Transplant Procedure

Hair transplant is a surgical procedure performed to address hair loss or thinning hair. It involves moving hair follicles from a donor area, typically the back or sides of the scalp, to the recipient or balding area. The transplanted hair follicles are resistant to hair loss and continue to grow naturally in their new location.

Here are the general steps involved in a hair transplant procedure:

1. Consultation: The first step is to have a consultation with a qualified hair transplant specialist. During the consultation, the doctor will assess your hair loss pattern, examine the donor area, and discuss your expectations and goals. They will also determine if you are a suitable candidate for a hair transplant.
2. Donor Area Preparation: Before the transplant, the donor area is trimmed and sterilized. The hair in the donor area is usually resistant to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is responsible for most cases of hair loss.
3. Harvesting of Hair Follicles: There are two common methods for harvesting hair follicles: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
   • FUT: In FUT, a strip of scalp containing hair follicles is surgically removed from the donor area. The incision is then closed with sutures or staples, leaving a linear scar that can be concealed by surrounding hair.
   • FUE: FUE involves extracting individual hair follicles directly from the donor area using a small punch tool. This method leaves tiny dot-like scars that are less noticeable and allow for a shorter recovery time.
4. Preparation of Recipient Area: The recipient area, where the hair will be transplanted, is prepared by creating tiny incisions or recipient sites. The surgeon takes into account the natural hair growth pattern, density, and aesthetic considerations during this step.
5. Implantation of Hair Follicles: The harvested hair follicles are carefully placed into the recipient sites created in the previous step. The surgeon pays attention to the angle, direction, and density to achieve a natural-looking result.
6. Post-Transplant Care: After the procedure, you will be provided with instructions on how to care for your scalp, including medications, washing routines, and limitations on physical activities. The transplanted hair initially falls out, but new hair growth typically starts within a few months.

Summary

It’s important to note that hair transplant outcomes can vary depending on various factors, such as the surgeon’s skill, the quality and quantity of the donor hair, and individual factors like hair characteristics and overall health. It’s essential to have realistic expectations and discuss potential risks and complications with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.