Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from a donor area (usually the back or sides of the head) to areas with thinning or no hair. The two most common methods are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation). The procedure provides natural-looking results by implanting individual hair follicles into the scalp, allowing them to grow naturally over time.
Hair transplants are usually performed under local anesthesia, so the procedure itself is relatively painless. You may feel some discomfort during the injection of the anesthetic, but most patients report minimal pain during the surgery. Post-surgery, mild soreness or tightness can occur, but it is typically managed with prescribed pain relief medication.
Yes, hair transplant results are generally permanent. The transplanted hair follicles are taken from areas that are genetically resistant to hair loss (the donor area), so they continue to grow naturally in their new location. However, it’s important to note that hair loss in non-treated areas of the scalp may continue over time.
Good candidates for hair transplantation are typically those with stable hair loss patterns and enough healthy hair in the donor area. Both men and women can undergo the procedure, but it works best for those in the early to moderate stages of hair loss. A consultation with a specialist is necessary to determine individual suitability.
Initial hair growth can start within 3-4 months, but the most noticeable results typically appear between 6-12 months after the procedure. It’s important to remember that hair growth is gradual. The transplanted hair will shed in the first few weeks, but new growth will occur afterward, with final results visible after about a year.
Recovery time varies depending on the technique used and the individual’s healing process. Most people can return to their regular activities within 2-5 days after the procedure. However, strenuous activities, swimming, and sun exposure should be avoided for at least two weeks. Full recovery of the scalp may take 7-10 days, and the newly transplanted hair requires a few months to grow.