2024-01-01 · hair, cosmetic, dermatology
Hair Transplant Surgery FAQ
What Is a Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that moves healthy hair follicles from one part of the scalp (donor area) to areas with thinning or no hair (recipient area). It is commonly used to treat pattern baldness and can restore a more natural hairline and fuller appearance.
What Causes Hair Loss That May Require a Transplant?
Hair loss can happen for many reasons. Common causes include:
- Genetic pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)
- Hormonal changes or aging
- Scalp scarring from injury or previous surgery
- Certain medical conditions that affect hair growth
- Long-term traction from hairstyles that pull on the hair
A consultation helps determine if a transplant is the right option and whether enough donor hair is available.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Hair Transplant Surgery?
Good candidates typically:
- Have stable hair loss patterns
- Have adequate donor hair density
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about results
Your surgeon will evaluate scalp health, hair type, and long-term hair loss trends.
About the Hair Transplant Procedure
Hair transplant surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and can take several hours, depending on the number of grafts. The two most common techniques are:
- Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): a strip of scalp is removed and grafts are prepared
- Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): individual follicles are removed and transplanted
The surgeon places grafts in a pattern that matches natural hair growth for a realistic result.
What Happens After Hair Transplant Surgery?
After surgery, the scalp may be tender, swollen, and scabbed for several days. Patients often go home the same day. Post-operative instructions usually include:
- Keeping the scalp clean and dry as directed
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a short period
- Using prescribed medications to reduce discomfort or infection risk
Follow-up visits help monitor healing and early growth.
How Long Does Recovery Take After a Hair Transplant?
Recovery timelines vary, but common milestones include:
- Initial healing in one to two weeks
- Temporary shedding of transplanted hair in the first few weeks
- New hair growth beginning around three to four months
- Final results visible in nine to twelve months
Patience is important, as transplanted follicles need time to establish growth cycles.
What Are the Potential Complications of Hair Transplant Surgery?
Hair transplant surgery is generally safe, but possible complications include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Poor graft survival
- Unnatural hairline if graft placement is uneven
- Temporary numbness or tightness in the scalp
Choosing an experienced surgeon and following care instructions helps minimize risks.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities?
Many patients return to desk work within a few days. Strenuous exercise, swimming, and sun exposure should be avoided for at least one to two weeks, depending on your surgeon’s guidance.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Contact your surgeon if you experience severe swelling, increasing pain, fever, drainage, or signs of infection. Prompt care helps prevent complications and supports healthy healing.