Hair transplant is a surgical technique that transfers hair follicles from a part of the body called the ‘donor site’ to a bald or balding area known as the ‘recipient site.’ This procedure, therefore, primarily addresses male pattern baldness, helping restore hair growth in areas where thinning or loss has occurred. By relocating hair follicles, the technique aims to improve hair density and provide a more natural appearance. As a result, this approach contributes to overall satisfaction and confidence for those affected by hair loss.
FUE METHOD
Follicular unit extraction (FUE), also known as follicular transfer (FT), is one of two primary methods for obtaining hair follicles, naturally occurring groups of one to four hairs, for hair transplantation.
- The follicular units obtained by either method serve as the basic building blocks of follicular unit transplantation (FUT). In 1988, Masumi Inaba in Japan first described follicular unit extraction, introducing the use of a 1-mm needle for extracting follicular units.
- Learning and developing high-standard skills for follicular unit extraction takes considerable time and expense.
- The survival of follicular units upon extraction from the scalp is crucial for successful hair transplantation. Transected follicular units during extraction have a higher likelihood of not surviving the transplant, resulting in a failed hair transplant. FUT procedures using strip-harvesting typically guarantee a large number of non-transected follicular units. In contrast, FUE procedures can often transect grafts, rendering them useless in a transplant.
- FUE harvesting of grafts may cause “pit” scarring, which are small, round, and typically white scars in the patient’s donor area where the grafts were removed.
- Follicular unit extraction generally allows quicker patient recovery and significantly lower post-operative discomfort than follicular unit transplantation (FUT). Additionally, the risk of long-term nerve damage, leading to chronic numbness and/or pain in the donor area, is significantly reduced with FUE compared to the strip (FUT) procedure. FUE also provides an alternative to FUT when the scalp is too tight for a strip excision and enables a hair transplant surgeon to harvest finer hair from the nape of the neck for use at the hairline or for eyebrows.
BIO-FUE METHOD
What is BIO FUE Hair Transplant?
The advanced version of the FUE Transplant, BIO FUE Transplant, offers a more beneficial procedure. It delivers better results by combining unit extraction with the PRP method. Moreover, many studies show that hair growth after a BIO FUE Transplant appears more natural compared to other treatments. In this method, the grafts are stored in the PRP, which contains biostimulation growth factors. Consequently, the grafts are introduced to the bald site, and the PRP’s catalyst effect leads to faster, more natural, and effective results. Additionally, the PRP boosts hair growth in the surrounding area, thereby enhancing the implant’s natural appearance. Furthermore, it strengthens thinning follicles and revives them with a growth booster dose. As a stitchless process, BIO FUE is the most popular hair transplant technique. It ensures that the transplant is not only natural but also healthy and effective. Since it is a natural process, it does not have any serious side effects.
Advantages of BIO FUE Hair Transplant
- Improved hair growth – PRP mixed with the unit follicles improves the growth of your implanted hair. The growth appears natural, with no changes in color, texture, or type.
- Solution for thinning hair – The process stimulates the growth of hairs in the surrounding area affected by hair thinning, in addition to improving the growth of the implanted hairs.
- Better hair texture – The PRP solution enhances hair texture, ensuring lovely and shiny hairs.
- Quick healing – The PRP factor allows for quick healing, returning the site to normal in minimal time.
- No scars – Focusing on unit follicle transfers leaves very small scars on the scalp, aiding quick healing and resulting in no visible scars.
- Cost effective – This process is highly cost-effective, requiring minimal maintenance and providing long-lasting effects due to the PRP factor.
IMPLANTATION METHODS
VARIOUS TYPE OF IMPLATATION
NEEDLE METHOD
SLIT METHOD
- Slit Hair Transplantation method, a new generation hair transplantation technique, is used in regions requiring intensive hair transplantation. Also known as lateral slit, this method uses thin scalpels for grooving, prepared according to graft and hair thickness. Grooving is performed at smaller angles in this method.
- Preferred and advantageous for hair transplantation to the temple area in thin-skinned individuals, the slit method can imitate the natural angulation of the hair, providing a more natural appearance. It is ideal for making the hair finish line look natural, especially near the hairline.
- Adjusting the canal depth according to the grafts’ root length makes it a more risk-free method compared to others that risk deep channel opening. The slit hair transplantation method results in faster healing. The scalp surface remains smooth, avoiding pits and blisters, and the open area closure rate is higher. Using intensive planting and lateral slit techniques together allows transplanting a high number of grafts in one session.
- Operation Time
- Slit method operation time from 2-5 hours
IMPLANTER PEN
What is an Implanter Pen?
An implanter pen is an instrument that physicians use to transfer follicular hair unit grafts onto the scalp. A follicular unit typically contains one to four healthy hairs. Yung Chul Chou of Kyungpook National University invented this device in the 1990s to reduce labor during hair transplants and minimize direct physical contact with the recipient’s scalp. This reduction in contact lowers scalp trauma during the procedure, allowing for quicker healing. Additionally, an implanter pen shortens the time follicular units spend outside the body, increasing their odds of survivability. The device also enhances precision, enabling physicians to achieve more natural-looking hair transplant results and improving the overall efficiency of the procedure.
How do Implanter Pens Work
Hair Transplants before Implanter Pens
Traditionally, physicians use needles or blades to create incisions for hair transplants, though implanter pens are rare. However, these incisions must be deep enough for follicular units to take root, which can lead to infections, scarring, and necrosis. Conversely, implanter pens can reduce these risks in several ways. Firstly, they create recipient sites with a fine needle, minimizing bleeding and infection risk. Secondly, this reduces scarring, though some will still occur. Additionally, immediate placement into recipient sites allows for greater densities with less bleeding, as incisions don’t have time to ooze. Moreover, hairs have a higher survival rate since vital structures like dermal papillae are not touched. Lastly, follicular units fit snugly into the recipient site, and overall healing time is shorter as the donor extraction process is often FUE.
COMPLICATIONS OF POST HAIR TRANSPLATATION
What are the complications associated with a hair transplant?
Side effects from a hair transplant are usually minor and clear up within a few weeks.
They can include:
- bleeding
- infection
- swelling of the scalp
- bruising around the eyes
- a crust that forms on the areas of the scalp where hair was removed or implanted
- numbness or lack of sensation on the treated areas of the scalp
- itching
- inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, which is known as folliculitis
- shock loss, or sudden but typically temporary loss of the transplanted hair
- unnatural-looking tufts of hair
Short-Term Complications
Typically, any side effects following a hair transplant are minor and usually resolve within a few weeks of the procedure. These short-term side effects include:
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- Bleeding & Swelling Of The Scalp
One of the most common side effects is bleeding and swelling of the scalp. During a hair transplant, follicles are removed from areas of healthy hair growth and transplanted into the treatment areas through small incisions. Although the FUE method is less intrusive than the traditional FUT method, which involved removing strips from the scalp, minor bleeding and swelling can still occur as the transplants heal.
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- Itching
Itching is a common side effect as the body heals after surgery. This occurrence is understandable following a hair transplant. However, it is crucial not to scratch the scalp to relieve itching, as this can dislodge the newly transplanted hair follicles and introduce dirt into the wounds, potentially leading to infection. If prolonged itching occurs, it might be due to the shampoo used. Contact one of our aftercare specialists for advice on preventing an itchy scalp and ensuring proper healing.
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- Infection
Folliculitis, or inflammation and infection of the hair follicles, can occur as a complication of a hair transplant. Often, mild antibiotic creams, lotions, or gels can treat such infections. If the infection becomes more severe, contacting our aftercare specialists for additional medical help or advice is recommended.
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- Shock Loss
Shock loss refers to the sudden loss of newly transplanted hair after the procedure. This complication is surprisingly common but not a cause for concern. Patients experiencing shock loss will typically see their newly transplanted hair re-grow within a few months, as the follicles remain intact and continue to develop.
Long-Term Complications
While short-term complications usually resolve within a few weeks, some long-term issues may need consideration:
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- Scalp Laxity
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Scalp laxity can be affected after a hair transplant, especially with the FUT procedure. Trauma during surgery impacts scalp elasticity. Typically, the scalp regains most of its laxity within six to eight months, though it may continue to loosen. A previously loose scalp usually returns to full laxity, while a tighter scalp shows a more noticeable change.
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- Grafts Which Fail To Take
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Despite a high success rate at Longevita, some grafts may fail. If this occurs, a repeat surgery may be needed. Our fully insured surgeons provide support and review growth progress to take necessary actions.
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- Hair Curl
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A ‘hair curl’ can occur when transplanted follicles curl under, potentially causing ingrown hairs and infection. Numerous curled hairs may make the transplant look unnatural.
POST HAIR TRANSPLANTATION CARE
HAIR TRANSPLANT AFTERCARE
SOLUTIONS TO FOLLOW AFTER A HAIR TRANSPLANT
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- Hair Transplant Aftercare – Many people seek hair transplant surgery to enhance their appearance, as head hair significantly affects one’s look and contributes to a youthful appearance. This surgery is not only safe and cost-effective but also delivers long-term, reliable results for treating baldness.
- SOME THINGS TO DO AFTER THE SURGERYEssential Hair Transplant Aftercare Kit:After the surgery, prepare an aftercare kit to ensure proper care for the new hair. This kit helps maintain the hair’s integrity and appearance, making it look beautiful and renewed. The following items are essential parts of the hair transplant aftercare kit:
- art of the hair transplant aftercare kit:
• Antibiotic 500mg.
• Painkiller 500mg.
• Cleansing foam.
• Anti-swelling agent.
• Medical shampoo.
• Hat.
• Neck pillow.
• Earplugs.
• Eye mask.
• Headband.
• Patient’s file: instructions
• guarantee, invoice etc. - During the procedure, cover your eyes and ears to protect these organs. Taking proper care of your hair after the transplant ensures a lifelong guarantee of satisfaction and enjoyment with your new look. Following these aftercare steps diligently will help you achieve optimal results and maintain the health of your transplanted hair.
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THINGS TO AVOID AFTER HAIR TRANSPLANT SURGERY
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- Avoid exposing the scalp to direct sunlight: Direct sunlight contains harmful UV rays. Immediately after the procedure and for a few days afterward, wear a protective article or cap when going outside.
- Try not to scratch or touch the operated scalp: During the first few days, you may feel tingling, swelling, or itching on your head. Rubbing or scratching may dislodge the new grafts before they have developed properly.
- Refrain from drinking alcohol for the first week after the procedure, Alcohol can affect blood circulation in the head and is considered a major cause of hair loss in both men and women.
- Avoid smoking:Smoking must also be avoided for the first two days after surgery as it can hinder blood circulation to the hair follicles on the scalp. Adequate circulation is crucial for new hair development.
- Refrain from participating in outdoor exercises, activities, or sports for a week or so after the surgery.
- Avoid activities which lead to excess sweating. Also, stay away from the sauna or steam shower for one month to prevent health issues.
- Avoid twisting or bending consistently for the first week after surgery.
- A hair transplant effectively restores lush hair to your head. Ensure you take proper care of your scalp after surgery to maximize the results.
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