Hair Transplants: What to Expect

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Hair transplantation offers a viable solution for individuals suffering from hair loss. By understanding the procedure, selecting the right candidates, and following best practices for pre- and post-transplantation care, both patients and physicians can achieve satisfactory and natural-looking results.

Hair transplantation has become a popular and effective solution for individuals experiencing hair loss. This article provides an overview of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, based on current research and expert consensus.

Pre-Transplantation Care

Candidate Selection

Selecting the right candidate is crucial for the success of hair transplantation. Ideal candidates typically have pattern hair loss, a good donor area, and realistic expectations. It is essential to assess the patient’s overall health and any comorbidities that might affect the surgery2 3. For women, underlying causes such as anemia or thyroid deficiency should be ruled out3.

Medical Therapy

Before undergoing hair transplantation, patients should receive adequate medical treatment for alopecia. Medications like minoxidil and finasteride are often recommended to prevent further hair loss and to enhance the results of the surgery4 7.

Preoperative Counseling and Consent

Patients should be thoroughly counseled about the procedure, including its limitations and potential complications. A detailed consent form should be signed, and patients should be given ample opportunity to ask questions and seek information3.

The Transplantation Procedure

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is used to minimize pain during the procedure. Common anesthetics include lidocaine and bupivacaine, which provide long-lasting effects1 3. Techniques to minimize pain during anesthetic infiltration are also employed1.

Donor Harvesting Techniques

There are two primary methods for harvesting donor hair: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).

• FUT involves excising a strip of tissue from the donor area, which results in a linear scar. This method is known for preserving the natural architecture of hair units3 6.
• FUE involves harvesting individual follicular units, which avoids linear scarring and is becoming increasingly popular6 7.

Graft Implantation

Different methods are used for graft implantation, including premade sites and the stick-and-place technique. Tools such as implanters may also be used to enhance precision1. The goal is to achieve a natural appearance by matching the orientation of the transplanted hair with the surrounding hair follicles4.

Post-Transplantation Care

Immediate Postoperative Care

After the procedure, patients should follow specific postoperative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and graft survival. This includes avoiding strenuous activities and following a prescribed haircare regimen2.

Long-Term Care

Patients should gradually resume their normal haircare routine and continue using medications like minoxidil and finasteride to maintain the results and prevent further hair loss4 7. Close follow-up during the first year is essential to monitor progress and address any complications2.

Expected Results and Complications

Results

Patients can expect to see new hair growth approximately nine months after the procedure. The results are typically natural and undetectable, thanks to advancements in techniques and tools4 7.

Complications

While hair transplantation is generally safe, potential complications include infection, scarring, and graft failure. Proper preoperative assessment and postoperative care can minimize these risks1 3.