When considering a hair transplant, many questions may emerge, prompting individuals to seek information online. With the convenience of internet access today, a vast array of information is at one’s fingertips, assuming the right sources are identified. This document aims to clarify all critical elements of the procedure for your comprehension and awareness. For those looking for the best hair transplant in India, Medispa Hair Transplant Clinic is recognized as the leading option for a comprehensive solution to hair loss.
Hair transplant
Hair grafts are obtained from the donor site, where permanent hair follicles are located, and are then transplanted into the specified bald area using a minimally invasive surgical method known as hair transplantation. It is essential to invest adequate time in planning and choosing a qualified hair transplant surgeon to achieve the best possible outcomes, as this procedure is elective rather than urgent. The procedure can only be performed if there is sufficient hair density in the donor area to ensure proper coverage, utilizing exclusively the patient’s own hair. The two main techniques used in hair transplantation are Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), which vary in their approaches to graft harvesting.
Steps of hair transplant
The hair transplant procedure consists of several steps performed during a single session. These steps include:
- Trimming of hair in the donor region: The extent of head shaving is influenced by the chosen technique. For the FUT method, complete shaving is not required, while the FUE technique necessitates total shaving of the head.
- Application of local anesthesia in the donor region: After the hair trimming, local anesthesia is administered to the donor area to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.
- Extraction of hair follicles: Hair follicles are carefully extracted from the donor site, ensuring adherence to the safe harvesting zone to avoid overharvesting. The extraction method varies depending on whether FUT, FUE, or a combination of techniques is utilized, and these processes are performed under high magnification.
- Graft preparation and suturing: In the case of FUT and combination techniques, the harvested tissue is sent to technicians for graft preparation. The donor area is then sutured using the trichophytic closure method to reduce scarring.
- Application of local anesthesia in the recipient region: The recipient area is subsequently anesthetized locally in preparation for the implantation of the hair follicles.
- Implantation of follicular grafts: The follicular grafts obtained from the donor site are meticulously placed into small incisions that are made according to the design of the natural hairline in the recipient area.
- Strategic placement of grafts for a natural look: Single grafts are positioned along the frontal hairline and in the temporal regions to ensure a natural appearance, while multiple and denser grafts are placed in the posterior sections to enhance fullness.
- Care following the procedure: Following the procedure, minor clots may be observed at the transplant site, which will be thoroughly cleaned by a professional after a period of 24 hours.
- Guidelines for post-operative care: Detailed instructions will be given to the patient to adhere to for about 15 days after the hair transplantation procedure.
Principles of hair transplant
Hair follicles that exhibit sensitivity to DHT, predominantly found in the frontal and vertex areas, play a significant role in hereditary hair loss. The initial signs of this condition often manifest as the development of a bald spot or a receding hairline in the vertex region. As the condition advances, these bald spots may coalesce, leading to a more extensive loss of hair. In the later stages, a band of hair typically remains on the sides and back of the head, encircling the larger bald area.
In the hair transplant procedure, follicles are harvested from the back and sides of the head, as well as from other areas of the body. These regions are chosen because they contain hair roots that are permanent and resistant to DHT. The selection of these roots is done with care, ensuring they possess the ability to maintain donor dominance post-transplantation, which is crucial for their longevity.
The fundamental reason for their resilience is that these DHT-resistant hair follicles do not have androgen receptors, which are responsible for heightened sensitivity, thinning, and miniaturization of hair. The genetic traits of the hair grafts are inherent to the roots themselves, enabling them to demonstrate donor dominance and function according to their natural characteristics, irrespective of the area on the scalp to which they are transplanted.
What are the best benefits of hair transplant procedure?
When performed by qualified professionals, hair transplantation offers several long-term benefits.
- Reliable results: Follicular grafts are harvested from the occipital region, which is located at the back and sides of the head, and subsequently transplanted to areas experiencing baldness, such as the frontal or vertex regions of the scalp. The hair follicles in the frontal and vertex areas are genetically more vulnerable to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), while those in the occipital region are resistant to its effects. Therefore, when follicles are extracted from a secure location, they typically yield enduring results.
- Authentic appearance: A hair transplant conducted by experienced practitioners yields results that appear natural. The surgeon must possess exceptional surgical skills and an aesthetic sensibility to maintain proper angulations while placing follicular grafts in the frontal area. Achieving a natural look is crucial, as artificial results can create the impression of wearing a wig, which would be particularly disappointing after a significant financial investment. This aspect of natural appearance is among the most gratifying long-term benefits of the procedure.
- Multiple sessions may be required: In the future, individuals experiencing significant or progressive baldness, particularly younger individuals, may need multiple sessions. In certain cases, it is possible that up to three sessions may be necessary if the hair transplant procedure is performed using the FUT or a combination technique. Therefore, it is essential to make a judicious choice regarding the method, which can be effectively guided by an experienced surgeon.
- Lasting outcomes versus temporary solutions: Hair transplants are recognized for delivering enduring results when grafts are harvested from a reliable donor site. Consequently, individuals can effectively eliminate the discomfort associated with temporary solutions that require frequent concealment.
- Density maintained at the donor area: The preservation of density in the donor area is crucial during hair transplantation procedures. When performed properly, the technique ensures that the hair density in the donor region remains intact while providing a fuller appearance in the balding areas. Therefore, it is vital to avoid excessive harvesting from the donor site, as this can compromise the safe zone, diminish density, and lead to negative consequences.