Hair Transplantation:

This technique yields very natural results to the extent that no one will notice that you have done anything. Hair transplantation is often considered after trying several medications and other routines. During the procedure, a strip containing hair follicles is removed from an area where hair is denser and transplanted to the treatment area. The success rate of the procedure is very high, and there are no long-term side effects.
The results of hair transplantation largely depend on the surgeon you choose, especially concerning the natural appearance desired by patients. Understanding the problem of hair loss is crucial, and then the doctor will inform you if you are a candidate for hair transplantation.

Who is a candidate for hair transplantation

Anyone, whether male or female, can undergo hair transplantation. It is preferred that the patient has:

1. Sufficient good hair on their scalp to transplant to areas in need of hair (especially on the sides and back of the head as donor areas, considering hair color, thickness, and texture).
2. The ability for hair growth in the thinning area of your scalp.

Your dermatologist will provide you with this information after examining your scalp thoroughly. Some blood tests or scalp biopsies may be required to determine the cause of hair loss.

During the hair transplantation procedure:

The procedure takes about 4-8 hours. If you are having a large amount of hair transplanted, you may need to return for a few hours the next day. Local anesthesia is administered only to the scalp, so patients remain awake during the procedure.
Hair is removed from healthy areas either by cutting a strip of skin with healthy hair from the scalp or by removing individual hairs. Technicians prepare the removed hair, and the surgeon prepares your scalp. One or more surgeons (depending on the amount of hair to be transplanted) then transplant the hair. Once completed, the scalp is bandaged.

Results of hair transplantation:

The results of the surgery start to appear 6-9 months after the procedure and may take up to 12 months to fully show. The transplanted hair may fall out after a few weeks, but new hair growth will begin. Doctors may prescribe medications to treat hair loss for optimal results. Multiple procedures may be needed for desired coverage, with healing between surgeries taking several months.

What should you do before undergoing hair transplantation?

1. Avoid smoking two weeks before surgery.
2. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure (often performed on an outpatient basis).
3. Follow simple post-operative instructions provided by your doctor, including caring for bandages on your scalp, taking pain relievers (as your scalp may become more sensitive), and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Risks:

Rare occurrences include infection, bleeding, scarring, and the growth of new unnatural hair strands.
Proper planning is crucial for the procedure, and you should be in good health before undergoing it to achieve the desired results. Discuss with a dermatologist about the available options for you before proceeding with this procedure.