Hair transplant is a surgical procedure performed to address hair loss or thinning hair. It involves taking hair follicles from one area of the body, typically the back or sides of the scalp (referred to as the donor area), and transplanting them to the bald or thinning areas (known as the recipient area) of the scalp.
The most common type of hair transplant is called follicular unit transplantation (FUT), also known as strip harvesting. In this technique, a strip of scalp containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area, and the wound is closed with sutures. The strip is then divided into smaller grafts, each containing one to several hair follicles. These grafts are carefully transplanted into tiny incisions made in the recipient area.
Another technique used for hair transplantation is follicular unit extraction (FUE). Unlike FUT, FUE involves individually extracting hair follicles from the donor area using a specialized instrument. The extracted follicles are then transplanted into the recipient area.
Hair transplant surgery is usually performed under
Hair transplant surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure can take several hours to complete, depending on the extent of the transplantation. After the surgery, the transplanted hair may initially fall out within a few weeks, but new hair growth should start within a few months. It takes time for the transplanted hair to fully mature and provide satisfactory results, typically taking 6 to 12 months.
Hair transplant surgery is generally considered safe, but as with any surgical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects. These may include bleeding, infection, scarring, numbness or lack of sensation in the donor or recipient areas, and an unnatural appearance if the procedure is not performed skillfully.
Before considering a hair transplant, it’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced hair transplant surgeon. They can evaluate your hair loss condition, discuss your expectations, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. They can also explain the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives to hair transplant surgery based on your individual circumstances.