Hair Transplant
dermatologyDescription
Hair transplant surgery transfers hair follicles from donor areas (typically the back and sides of the head) to balding or thinning regions for permanent, natural hair growth. The two primary techniques are Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), where individual follicles are harvested one by one, and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT/strip method), where a strip of scalp is removed and dissected. FUE is most popular due to no linear scar and faster recovery. Advanced techniques include sapphire blade FUE for finer incisions, Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) using Choi pens for denser packing, and robotic-assisted harvesting. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is often combined to boost graft survival. Results are permanent as transplanted follicles retain their genetic programming from the donor area.
What to Expect
Procedure takes 4-8 hours depending on the number of grafts (typically 1,500-5,000). Performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The donor area is shaved for FUE technique. You remain awake and comfortable, able to watch movies or listen to music during the procedure. PRP may be applied during or after the transplant. No bandages are typically needed. You can return to your hotel the same day.
Recovery Information
Days 1-3: Mild swelling and redness in transplanted and donor areas. Sleep elevated. Days 3-5: Return to desk work. Gentle hair washing begins as instructed. Days 5-10: Scabs form and fall off. Weeks 2-4: Transplanted hair sheds (completely normal, known as shock loss). Months 3-4: New hair growth begins. Months 6-9: Significant visible growth. Months 12-18: Full results visible. Avoid direct sun, swimming, and strenuous exercise for 2-4 weeks. PRP follow-up sessions may be recommended at 1, 3, and 6 months.