Hair Transplant Surgery: The Ultimate Guide to Restoring Your Hair

Introduction

Hair transplant surgery is a permanent solution for hair loss that moves healthy hair follicles from dense areas (usually the back or sides of the scalp) to thinning or bald regions. This minimally invasive procedure delivers natural-looking results, helping men and women regain confidence in their appearance.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates:

✔ Men or women with male/female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)
✔ Those with stable hair loss (not rapidly progressing)
✔ Individuals with enough donor hair (back/sides of scalp)
✔ Good overall health (no uncontrolled autoimmune diseases)

Not Recommended For:

❌ Diffuse, unstable hair loss (e.g., alopecia areata)
❌ Very low donor hair supply
❌ Unrealistic expectations (cannot create new hair, only redistribute existing follicles)

Types of Hair Transplant Techniques

1. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) – “Strip Method”

• A strip of scalp is removed from the donor area, dissected into grafts, and transplanted.
• Pros: Higher graft yield in one session
• Cons: Linear scar (hidden under hair), longer recovery

2. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) – “No-Scar Method”

• Individual follicles are extracted and transplanted.
• Pros: No linear scar, faster recovery
• Cons: More expensive, may require multiple sessions

3. Robotic Hair Transplant (ARTAS®)

• Uses AI-assisted robotics for precise FUE extraction.
• Pros: Highly accurate, minimally invasive
• Cons: Most expensive option

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before Surgery:

• Consultation with a hair restoration specialist
• Blood tests to rule out infections or clotting issues
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and blood thinners before surgery

During Surgery (4–8 hours):

1. Local anesthesia numbs the scalp.
2. Donor hair extraction (FUT or FUE method).
3. Graft preparation (trimming and sorting follicles).
4. Recipient site creation & implantation (mimicking natural hair growth).

After Surgery:

• First 3 days: Mild swelling, redness, and scabbing
• 1 week: Scabs fall off, light shedding of transplanted hair
• 3–4 months: New hair starts growing
• Full results: Visible after 9–12 months

Recovery & Aftercare

Do’s:

✔ Sleep with head elevated for 3 days
✔ Use prescribed antibiotics/anti-inflammatory meds
✔ Gently wash scalp after 48 hours
✔ Wear a loose hat (after 5–7 days)

Don’ts:

❌ Scratch or pick at scabs
❌ Exercise/swear heavily for 2 weeks
❌ Smoke or drink alcohol (slows healing)

Results & Longevity

• Natural-looking hair growth (permanent, as transplanted follicles are resistant to balding).
• Gradual improvement – Hair grows in phases over 12 months.
• Lifelong results – Maintained with proper care (minoxidil/finasteride can help).

Risks & Side Effects

• Temporary shock loss (shedding of existing hair)
• Minor swelling, itching, or numbness
• Rare infection or scarring (if post-op care is neglected)

Cost of Hair Transplant

Price varies by surgeon experience, location, and graft count.

Alternatives to Surgery

• Medications (Minoxidil, Finasteride) – Slows hair loss but doesn’t regrow thick hair.
• PRP Therapy – Boosts hair density (temporary results).
• Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) – Tattoo illusion of hair follicles.