Hair transplant (hair restoration) is a very small hair on the sides and at the back which is surgically taken at the top of the head that is in the shape of a small skin graft. The hair is genetically programmed in such a way that will continuously grow even when it has been transplanted to a different site. Some people may require extensive hair replacement and some only requires a recreation of their hairline.
Types of Hair Loss
Alopecia is the medical name used for hair loss. Androgenetic Alopecia (pattern baldness) is the most frequent type of alopecia that is seen in one-third women and men.
Permanent Hair Loss
Cicatricial Alopecia : It is an unusual condition that causes scar hair follicles and inflammation damages which causes permanent hair loss.
Androgenetic Alopecia (Male-pattern baldness) : This condition can occur early in men (early teens) that results in thinning of the hairline at the temples and baldness on the top of the head. It may result into complete or partial baldness.
Androgenetic Alopecia (Female-pattern baldness) : This condition in females usually leads to thinning of hair from the sides and at the front.
Temporary Hair Loss
Traction Alopecia : This condition will result into small bald patches if several hairstyles are worn regularly.
Alopecia Areata : This condition involves the hair loss of the whole scalp or can also be in patches and can even involve the whole body.
Telogen Effluvium : This condition occurs after some major stress or illness. This condition leads to hair thinning and does not include bald patches.
Good Candidate for Hair Transplant
- Candidates should have healthy hair growth at the sides and back of the head for the donor areas
- Mini-grafts, micro-grafts, strip grafts, punch grafts and slit grafts are the different techniques used for those candidates who aspire for a change in the fullness of their hair.
- Scalp-reduction, flaps and tissue-expansion are the different procedures for those candidates who need a drastic change.
Women have female pattern baldness and they do not have usable donor sites for transplantation. Due to this reason, there is a very small percentage of women candidates-
- Candidates with Alopecia Marginalis
- Candidates suffering from hair loss as in the case of accidents and also includes burn victims
- Candidates suffering from hair loss due to traction alopecia or mechanical alopecia
- Women candidates have a similar pattern of baldness just like male pattern baldness
Hair Transplant Procedure
The surgery takes place under local anesthesia. The surgeon first harvests the donor hair grafts from the strip of a skin which is taken from the region in between the two ears. The strip is separated into tiny units of skin grafts containing 1 to 3 hairs known as follicular units. The surgeon then makes the recipient sites which are produced in the area of hair loss. In the bald skin, the sites are produced by making little slits. The needle creates appropriate opening for every site and the blood is taken out of the patient’s arm. The surgeon then carefully places the grafts on the recipient sites and the back of the head of donor site is not noticeable. The new transplanted hair starts to grow after 3 to 4 months time and the hair continue to grow for about half an inch for every month.
Nonsurgical Hair Transplant
The non-surgical process is the most effective solution to the male-pattern baldness. It simply requires applying light, thin and transparent membrane to the scalp which is then combined with the natural hair. This transparent membrane is then attached to the scalp. To create a natural effect, the membrane is woven with the existing hair. This looks completely natural just like the existing hair and also matches in terms density, direction and color. The procedure begins by first making design consultation so as to make sure that the product looks exactly natural as your existing hair style and color.
Difference Between Hair Replacement and Hair Transplant Systems
The non-surgical hair replacement procedure involves toupees, hair extensions, hairpieces and hair weave to suit your existing hair. This procedure provides with a natural looking appearance just like a fuller head of hair.
Hair transplant is a surgical process which is planned to regrow and transplant healthy hair follicles taken from the scalp and finally relocating them in the different thinning areas for new growth. The benefit of hair transplant is that the new hair can be easily styled, washed and combed just like your normal hair. The process of follicle hair location is very safe and the results are excellent. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) are the two approaches for surgical hair restoration process.
Cost of Hair Transplant Surgery
The hair transplant cost in India is very affordable and almost every cosmetic clinic center has latest medical facilities and services.
FAQs for Hair Transplant
Can you do this procedure non – surgically?
No, Hair transplant cannot be done non – surgically.
Is Hair transplant suitable for all people?
Generally, men who are in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are suitable candidates for this procedure. This is a treatment for baldness, if someone in the early 20s has hair loss then it can be treated by medicines.
Do I need to get admitted in hospital?
No, this is an outpatient procedure, you can go home same day after your procedure.
What are the methods you use for hair transplantation?
There are 2 methods – FUE (Follicular unit extraction) & FUT(Follicular unit transplantation).
What is the difference between FUE & FUT?
FUE is an advanced technology, in which a doctor removes single follicle unit with a specifically designed instrument and regrafts them into Bald area of the patient.
Will I feel any pain in hair transplant procedure?
Doctors mostly perform this procedure under local anesthesia but in a few cases, he gives sedation as well with the help of these you will not feel any pain during procedure. For postoperative pain- doctors recommend pain killers and some antibiotics to reduce pain and infection.
Is there any drugs available for hair loss/baldness?
Yes, there are 2 drugs that have been approved by FDA for hair loss. Doctors suggest these medicines after consultation with the patient.
- Minoxidil lotions
- Finasteride 1mg tablets
How soon I can see results after this procedure?
Results totally depend on case to case basis but generally results come in three to six months. Your transplanted hairs will grow naturally within one year.
Will there be any hair fall after Hair Transplant procedure?
Yes, it is normal to have hair fall after this procedure because transplanted hairs take place for first 3 weeks then they fall down to make area for new hair to grow.
Can I style my Hair after Hair Transplant?
After Transplant, your hair will grow slowly and will completely grow in one year. After that you can style your hair as you want. You can also use Blow dry, mousses, gels, sprays and color your hairs.
What habits I should stop before and after hair transplant?
The doctor recommends stopping alcohol, blood-thinning medicines, smoking, chewing tobacco for at least 2 weeks prior to your hair transplant. This you will have to follow after your procedure.
How much time it takes to finish the procedure?
For 1500 to 3000 grafts it takes 7 to 8 hours.
Can I use other person as a donor for hair transplant?
No, only your hairs can be transplanted, you cannot use another person as a donor.
Can I undergo hair transplant if I have other medical problems?
If you have any medical problem, you should inform your doctor in the first consultation only. He will plan your procedure after stabilizing your medical problems.
For how long I should keep away from work or going outside after the procedure?
After this procedure, you should take rest for 3 days at home. You will have some scabbing and swelling, you can use ice packs to reduce swelling. You can also use a loose-fitting cap/hat while going outside, if you don’t want to use hat you can stay at home for at least 10 days.
When can I start exercise?
For starting 3 weeks, you should start with very light exercises. After that you can do your routine exercise.
When I can take showers?
After the procedure, your doctor will put a head dressing for first 2 days. Once your dressing is removed, doctor will give you the first head wash. You should use baby shampoo at home and do not rub and starch your head for 2 more weeks.
What are the risk factors for this procedure?
If you are undergoing this procedure with an experienced doctor, then risk factors are always low. However, some patients can have pain, swelling or infection. Swelling can be reduced with ice packs and for infections, it can be treated with antibiotics.
What the approximate cost for Hair transplant treatment and how can I get an appointment?
To know about Hair transplant costs and appointments, kindly contact us on below details:
Email: [email protected]
Mobile/Whatsapp: +91 9717766080