Hair transplant is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to restore hair growth in areas of the scalp where hair loss has occurred. The procedure involves taking hair follicles from areas of the scalp that are still growing hair (the donor area) and transplanting them into areas of the scalp where hair has stopped growing (the recipient area).
Procedure:
There are two main types of hair transplant procedures: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). FUT involves removing a strip of skin from the donor area and then dividing it into smaller grafts that are transplanted into the recipient area. FUE involves removing individual hair follicles directly from the donor area and transplanting them into the recipient area. Both procedures are typically performed under local anaesthesia and can take several hours to complete, depending on the extent of the hair loss and the size of the recipient area.
Suitable candidates:
The ideal candidate for a hair transplant is someone who has a stable supply of donor hair, which is typically found at the back or sides of the scalp. Candidates should also be in good overall health, with no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications during or after the procedure.
Benefits:
Hair transplant surgery can provide a number of benefits, including improved self-confidence and a more youthful appearance. It can also help to restore a fuller head of hair and improve the overall density of the hair in the treated area.
Precautions:
Patients should take certain precautions both before and after the hair transplant procedure to ensure the best possible outcomes. These can include avoiding alcohol and smoking in the weeks leading up to the procedure, taking prescribed medications as directed, and avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting in the days following the procedure.
Risks:
Like any surgical procedure, hair transplant surgery carries some risks. These can include bleeding, infection, scarring, and poor hair growth. Additionally, some patients may experience numbness, itching, or swelling in the treated area. It’s important for patients to discuss the potential risks with their surgeon before undergoing the procedure.
Side effects:
Some of the most common side effects of a hair transplant procedure include swelling, bruising, and soreness in the treated area. These side effects typically subside within a few days to a week after the procedure. Additionally, patients may experience some temporary hair shedding in the weeks following the procedure, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Cost:
The cost of a hair transplant procedure can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the extent of the hair loss, the size of the recipient area, and the experience of the surgeon. In general, FUT tends to be less expensive than FUE.
Post follow-up:
After the procedure, patients will typically need to return to the clinic for follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure that the transplanted hair is growing properly. Additionally, patients may be given instructions on how to care for the treated area in the days and weeks following the procedure.
