A hair transplant procedure is surgical, yet it’s a simple, outpatient procedure. Unlike hair replacement systems like wigs, it’s a permanent solution for hair restoration. It replaces one’s hair loss on the head and hairline. Here’s a snapshot of the steps involved in a hair transplant.

Pre-Procedure

Photos are taken prior to the hair transplant surgery to identify the hair loss areas to be treated. The next step is preparation of the donor area and removal of the donor hair. A nurse then administers a local anesthesia to numb the donor area during removal of donor hair. The doctor removes a strip of tissue in the donor’s back and side of the head. The donor area is then sutured.

Preparation of Follicles

The clinical team will divide the donor strips into follicle groupings called units. Each unit is made up of one to four hair follicles. During this time, patients can feel free to relax, read magazines or pass the time as they choose. The preparation of the follicular units is the next stage of the procedure.

Creating the Recipient Sites

Once the follicle units are ready to be transplanted, another local anesthesia is given before the surgeon make small incisions on the scalp. This is where the follicular units will be placed. Attention is given to the depth and angle of each unit for a natural look. Hair restoration takes both artistic sensitivity and clinical expertise. Two units may be placed near the hairline, and three units may be placed behind the reconstructed hairline to maximize coverage of the balding areas.

Post-Procedure

Once all the follicular units have been placed, the doctor will inspect the grafts for proper placement. Patients are given written and oral post-operative instructions on how to take care of the transplant site and medications for discomfort. You may have to sleep with a pillow for the first few nights after having a hair transplant. Typically, it’s required that patients return the next day after the procedure to have their hair washed and donor and recipient sites evaluated. While some soreness and tightness might occur, most patients can return to their normal routine the day following a hair transplant procedure. Usually, any redness or swelling subsides after just one week following the hair restoration surgery.

It’s not uncommon for hair to thin due to age or genetics. Hair restoration is a great way to combat hair loss. Both men and women turn to hair restoration for a better and younger look. A hair transplant is an effective way to turn back the clock. Most people rave about the results.

We Are Your Hair Loss Prevention Experts

Struggling with hair loss is common and treatments are available to help. We encourage you to find out more about the variety of options available to treat hair loss in men and women. It’s important to consult with an experienced and trained restoration professional.

To learn more about which treatment option is right for you, schedule a Frank & Honest Hair Consultation or contact our team in New York City or Columbus, Ohio.

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