Hair Transplant
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Hair Transplant
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body (usually the back or sides of the head) to an area with thinning or no hair (such as the scalp). This procedure is primarily used to treat male and female pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, but it can also be used to restore hair in other areas of the body, such as the eyebrows, beard, and chest.
There are two main techniques used in hair transplant procedures:
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT):
- Also known as the “strip method,” FUT involves removing a thin strip of scalp from the donor area (usually the back of the head) where hair is abundant and less prone to balding.
- The strip is dissected under a microscope into individual hair follicles, known as grafts, which contain one to four hairs each.
- These grafts are then implanted into the recipient area (the area with thinning or no hair) through small incisions.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE):
- FUE is a more advanced technique where individual hair follicles are extracted directly from the donor area using a micro-punch tool.
- The extraction sites are small and typically heal with minimal scarring.
- The extracted follicles are then transplanted into the recipient area.
Both FUT and FUE methods have their advantages and considerations, and the choice between them depends on factors like the patient’s hair type, extent of hair loss, and the surgeon’s expertise.
Here are some key points to consider about hair transplant:
- Suitable Candidates: Ideal candidates for hair transplant surgery have good donor hair supply, stable hair loss, and realistic expectations. The procedure may not be suitable for those with extensive baldness or inadequate donor hair.
- Consultation: Consultation with a qualified and experienced Hair Transplant MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON is crucial. The surgeon will assess your hair loss pattern, donor hair availability, and overall health to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
- Results: Hair transplant results are not immediate; the transplanted hair falls out initially and then starts to regrow over several months. Full results may take up to a year to become apparent.
- Scarring: Both FUT and FUE procedures involve some degree of scarring. FUT leaves a linear scar at the donor site, while FUE leaves multiple small scars. However, FUE scars are often less noticeable.
- Recovery: Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to work within a week. Swelling, discomfort, and scabbing are common in the first few days after surgery.
- Cost: Hair transplant costs can vary widely based on factors such as the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and location.