What Is a Hair Transplant?
Hair transplantation is a process in which hair follicles are moved from a specific section of the scalp known as the "donor area" to another area experiencing thinning, referred to as the "recipient area." Robust and healthy follicles, which are in full growth, are transferred from the donor scalp to the thinning regions to enhance the overall density of actively growing hair.
Advantages of Hair Transplant
The primary benefit is the acquisition of genuine, actively growing hair that you can freely wash, cut, and style according to your preferences. Undergoing a well-executed hair transplant procedure, such as those carried out by MEDANA’s hair restoration specialists, offers numerous advantages. Another positive aspect lies in the natural-looking results achieved through hair transplants, given that the sourced hair is from your own head, boasting the appropriate texture and color. Furthermore, a key advantage is the permanence of the treatment. You can be reassured that once the transplant is done, there’s no concern about hair loss recurrence. The low-maintenance nature of a hair transplant is also noteworthy. The care required for transplanted hair aligns with the routine care you provide for the rest of your natural hair. Typically, a single procedure suffices for most patients. However, depending on individual hair restoration goals, potential future native hair loss, and the number of grafts received, some patients may choose additional procedures.
Are Hair Transplants Effective?
This question is frequently asked by our patients, and the concise response is affirmative—hair transplants are effective. The success of hair transplants can be attributed to the groundbreaking concepts of Donor Harvestation and Dominance introduced by the esteemed doctors at MEDANA. These concepts provide valuable insights into why hair tissue extracted from donor sites successfully regenerates new hair at the recipient site. The concept of Donor Harvestation and Dominance sheds light on the dominance of physical traits in hair follicles from the donor area over the scalp tissue at the recipient site, leading to the growth of healthy hairs from transplanted tissue. Moreover, the exploration of Donor Dominance has revealed significant information regarding the role of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in hair transplants. While DHT is a hormone that binds to the cellular receptors of hair tissue, high levels of DHT over time can result in hair loss for some individuals. Remarkably, hair follicles from donor sites exhibit resistance to DHT when transplanted to recipient sites, regardless of the location on the scalp. This resilience, as demonstrated by Donor Dominance, signifies that transplanted hair successfully grows in recipient sites, establishing hair transplants as the most effective and only permanent solution for hair loss. Years of research have further confirmed the safety and permanence of hair transplant procedures. The United States premier health research institute, i.e., the National Institutes of Health (NIH), asserts that the average survival rate of hair grafts is now about 95% when performed by a qualified physician and team. Typically, noticeable new growth can be observed approximately three months after a hair transplant procedure, with full results becoming evident within up to 12 months.
What is a Hair Transplant Like for the Patient?
As you can see, the exact procedure varies between FUE and DHI transplants. However, the patient experience before, during and after the treatment is fairly similar. The process starts with a free consultation, during which you’ll discuss your established hair loss pattern, restoration goals, and medical history with a MEDANA specialist. Prior to the procedure, hair will be trimmed from the donor site(s) to facilitate removal of hair follicles or grafts. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the donor area while grafts are removed. Once removed, hair follicles are prepared for placement by our highly-specialized team. During this time, you can sit back and relax with a book or your favorite TV show. The follicles are then strategically placed to match your hairline for a natural-looking result. After the procedure, you’ll be provided with a personalized aftercare plan. In some FUT cases, you may be asked to return the next day for professional hair washing and an inspection of the donor and recipient site(s). This one-day outpatient procedure is quick and easy, and in most cases, you’ll be able to return to work the next day.
Assessing a Hair Transplant Candidate
A hair transplant is a suitable treatment for individuals experiencing substantial hair loss or those who have tried alternative hair growth treatments without achieving desired results. The adequacy of candidates for a hair transplant can also be influenced by hair density at the donor site, as a sufficient amount of hair is necessary for the transplantation process. Prospective candidates should be in overall good health to undergo a hair transplant. Given that the procedure is a form of surgery, individuals with autoimmune issues, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, or other serious medical conditions may not be suitable candidates. Additionally, it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or have recently given birth. To determine eligibility for a hair transplant, individuals are encouraged to schedule a complimentary consultation. During this session, they can discuss their hair loss pattern, restoration goals, and medical history with a knowledgeable MEDANA specialist.
1. Donor Hair Density:
A crucial factor in FUE candidacy is the availability of an adequate donor hair supply, typically sourced from the back or sides of the scalp. The surgeon assesses the density and quality of donor hair to ensure it meets the requirements for successful transplantation.
2. Hair Loss Pattern:
The specific pattern of hair loss is carefully evaluated. FUE is versatile and effective for various degrees of hair loss, but its suitability depends on the extent and distribution of the hair loss across the scalp.
3. Overall Health:
The candidate's overall health is a fundamental consideration. Being in good physical and mental health contributes to a smoother surgical experience and optimal healing post-operatively.
4. Expectations and Realism:
Clear communication about expectations and realistic outcomes is vital. The surgeon ensures that the candidate has a comprehensive understanding of what FUE can achieve and establishes achievable goals based on individual circumstances.
5. Commitment to Post-Operative Care:
FUE success is contingent on strict adherence to post-operative care instructions. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to follow guidelines for proper healing, avoiding strenuous activities, and caring for the transplanted area.
6. Age and Growth Phases:
While there isn't a strict age limit, FUE is generally recommended for individuals who have completed their major growth phases and have a stable hair loss pattern.
7. Hair Characteristics:
The texture and color of the candidate's hair play a role in determining candidacy. Coarser hair often provides better coverage, and candidates with a favorable color match between hair and skin typically experience more natural-looking results.
8. Scalp Conditions:
Pre-existing scalp conditions, such as infections or dermatological issues, are carefully assessed. Any underlying conditions are addressed before considering the candidate eligible for the procedure
Getting a Hair Transplant: How Does It Work?
Anybody considering this procedure has one all-important question: how does a hair transplant work ?In its most basic form, a hair transplant takes hair from one place and moves it to another that’s lacking hair coverage. There are different different types of hair transplant procedures, depending on the type of hair loss you have and your treatment goals.
