Hair Transplantation

About treatment

You have many options when it comes to hair loss. For starters, advising with a trichologist, hair expert, can help you to understand your problem and advise solutions that would work for you. If other treatments aren’t providing satisfactory results, many turn to hair transplant procedures that can guarantee more permanent results. Today’s technological developments have meant a constant evolution and innovation for the equipment and devices used in hair transplantation. Making it easier than ever to find a procedural solution to achieve long-lasting hair growth. There are generally four types of surgeries to consider if you are looking for hair transplantation. Discussions with your doctor will guide you to the treatment that is most appropriate for you.

 1. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplant) - this is a traditional technique where the patient’s hair is transplanted naturally in occurring groups of 1 to 4 hairs, known as follicular units. 

2. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) - this is a more experienced technique that provides a more natural looking hairline and a faster recovery. Grafts are collected from the patient and small incisions are made on the scalp to host the extracted grafts. 

3. Sapphire FUE - This is a natural innovation of the FUE approach. The surgery is performed similarly, but according to different medical standards. The incisions made are done using sapphire blades over steel allowing for a safer, easier and quicker recovery with little risk of complication. This method can also be used in Body Hair Transplants (BHT) such as the beard and upper lip area. 

4. Direct Hair Transplant (DHI) - This is one of the latest evolutions in hair transplantation. The procedure is similar to DUE until the implantation phase. DHI is a minimally invasive procedure where the extracted grafts are loaded into an implanter pen, directly implemented into the skin. Skipping the incision and channel opening phase used in FUE. This technique is especially used for women. 

Who is this for 

Although more common in men, women can also undergo hair transplantation. Some conditions that make hair transplants an attractive option include: 

• Individuals with partial and evolving baldness (common in men) 
• Those with a receding hairline 
• Individuals with traction alopecia 
• Those who have undergone head trauma resulting in hair loss 

How to prepare 

Patients receiving a hair transplant are encouraged to avoid getting a haircut before treatment allowing for sufficient extraction and to help hide the stitches post surgery. It is also recommended patients massage their scalp two weeks to a month before surgery. This will improve blood circulation and soften the skin. 

Upon consultation with your doctor you will be advised if it is necessary for you to take medication ahead of treatment as well as if you need to stop taking any of your normal medication. 

What to expect during the procedure 

The step by step procedure will change depending on the type of hair transplant surgery you have. However, the surgeries have some consistent characteristics. 

• You do not need to be put under general anaesthesia for hair transplantation, instead a pain-free local anaesthesia will be used. The patient remains fully aware through the procedure - you can even watch TV or read a book throughout! 
• The doctor will then extract hair follicles from the donor area of the patient.  
• Next, incisions may be needed to create an opening site for the implantation of the extracted grafts. 
• Lastly, the extracted grafts will be implanted into the empty area and at the right angles to match your hair direction. 

Taking care after treatment 

Following treatment, the transplanted site will need wound dressing and may need Platelet-Rich Therapy (PRP) to speed up the healing period of the operation site. Scalp washing is one of the most important aspects of postoperative care. It is crucial to wash the scalp properly and on a daily basis for the revitalisation and vitality of the implanted hair. The first wash should happen one to two days after treatment using a special shampoo and cream advised by your doctor. 

In the weeks following the procedure, many hairs can fall out. This can be shocking to patients but is completely normal and expected. These areas will gradually recover as your hair grows back. 

Be aware of the risks 

Hair transplant is a low risk surgery aided by the fact patients do not need to go under general anesthesia. However, there are some risks to be aware of: 

• Tissue destruction or degeneration that can lead to necrosis 
• Pain, bleeding or infection 
• Scarring or swelling on the scalp

Success 

Hair transplants are deemed to have a 90-95% success rate. Many patients find hair transplants to be a permanent solution to hair loss. The full results of the treatment are usually visible 12-19 months following surgery, allowing time for the hair to naturally grow into place.