How Does Hair Transplant Work?

Hair has become more of an identity than just mere appearance. With enormous rates of hair loss and possible baldness, hair transplants seem to give new hope for those desiring that youthful appearance. How does hair transplant work? 

There a variety of controversies and misconceptions revolving around hair transplants.  It is often associated with the implantation of strands of hair with an unrealistic hairline appearance. But this is far from the truth. Hair transplant involves transferring hair from thicker parts of the scalp or any other part of the body to the thin portions of the scalp. It is a cosmetic surgical procedure that also includes transplanting hair in the lashes and eyebrows.

WHO MAY REQUIRE A HAIR TRANSPLANT?

Usually, to be eligible for a hair transplant, there are two main requirements-

1. The ability of hair growth on the thinning part of the scalp
2. Healthy hair that can be transplanted

With exception to this, people regardless of race and gender, are suited for the transplant. Of course, a few tests are conducted, to confirm better results. The first step is to consult a dermatologist who will guide you through the course of action.

The present-day hair transplant technique offers a more permanent and modified version. The two main types of hair transplants include- Follicular unit strip surgery (FUSS) and follicular unit extraction (FUE). These surgeries may offer slightly different results depending upon the size of and type of hair including the surgeon operating. 

FOLLICULAR UNIT STRIP SURGERY

SURGICAL PROCEDURE- The surgeon makes an incision and cuts out a piece or strip of skin from the scalp. This size depends upon the number of follicles required to cover the bald spots. The size of the strip usually doesn’t extend beyond 1.5 cm. After the required follicles are removed, the strip is reinserted into the scalp. The surgery takes place for 4 to 8 hours with the help of local anaesthesia.

BENEFITS-

1. Lesser cost- This surgery is a cheaper and just as effective option for those on a budget.
2. Larger area- This is a better option if the transplantation requires a larger number of follicles.
3. Time- The duration of the procedure is comparatively much shorter.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS- Side effects are quite rare and the only disadvantage seems to be the scar that the surgery leaves behind. Some extremely rare complications include bleeding, swelling, pain, cysts, and inflammation.

RECOVERY - Shampooing can be done with mild shampoos, 48 hours after the surgery. It is strongly advised that you refrain from any heavy or strenuous exercise for at least a month.

FOLLICULAR UNIT EXTRACTION

SURGICAL PROCEDURE- It is comparatively lesser invasive as it doesn’t involve a strip of skin, unlike FUSS. The first step involves shaving the hair in regions where the follicles are required as well as from where they are to be procured. The follicles are removed with the help of a micro punch tool. The extracted follicles are then reinserted into a series of microscopic incisions made with the help of a needle. The area operated on is then cleaned and bandaged for further recovery.

BENEFITS- 

1. It is a procedure done in sessions spanning over a couple of days.
2. Recovery rate- Since it is a simple outpatient procedure with microscopic incisions, the healing time is comparatively faster.
3. Painless- patients have reported no too little main during the procedure.
4. Natural look- The results are quite impressive. The hair transplant procedure leaves you with a natural-looking hairline and thicker hair.
5. Absence of scar- Since this a minimally invasive procedure, scarring is often absent or very minimal.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS - In most cases, significant side effects have not been observed. However, in extremely rare cases, you might need to consult your doctor, if you find any of the following symptoms.

1. Swelling of the follicles
2. Bleeding or numbness in the area of surgery
3. Feeling of pain or swelling in the area
4. Symptoms relating to infection
5. Drainage or crust in the area

RECOVERY-

Recovery will be quicker with hopefully, no complications. However, you might feel some discomfort initially for a couple of days. You are advised to use milder shampoos when you start washing your hair for a few days. Do not wash your hair for the first three days. Refrain from strenuous physical activity and combing or brushing the new hair for the first three weeks after the surgery.

Sometimes you may experience a few hairs falling off. This is quite normal. You will notice the result of your hair transplant, three to four months later.

Dr. V.S Rathore is one of the best hair transplant clinics in Kolkata. They offer a number of services including hair transplants, liposuction, facial surgery, cosmetic breast surgery, scar management, etc. under the guidance of Dr. Rathore. He is a highly skilled surgeon with expertise on precision of various procedures to meet the needs of his patients. He has performed over 9000 successful surgeries including 2100 hair transplants.