How Is Hair Transplant Done? An In-depth Look (2024)

Key Takeaways: How is Hair Transplant Done?

Key Takeaways	Details
Types of Techniques	FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), with FUE being more popular in India due to its minimal invasiveness.
Step-by-Step Process	Includes consultation, preparation, follicle extraction, graft preservation, recipient area preparation, implantation, post-operative care, and recovery.
Follicle Extraction	Performed using a micro surgical tool to extract individual follicles, ensuring minimal scarring and quicker recovery.
Implantation Technique	Follicles are implanted in tiny incisions made in the recipient area to mimic natural hair growth patterns.
Recovery and Results	Initial healing takes 2-3 weeks; new hair growth starts within a few months, with full results visible within a year.
Cost Factors	Costs vary based on the number of grafts and clinic location, ranging from INR 25 to INR 125 per graft.
Choosing the Right Clinic	Important factors include the surgeon’s experience, technology used, before and after pictures, and patient reviews.

Introduction

Hair transplant surgery is a popular procedure for restoring hair on balding or thinning areas of the scalp. In India, the procedure is widely available and utilizes advanced techniques to achieve natural-looking results. Here, we will explore the steps involved in a hair transplant procedure, focusing on the most common method used in India: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).

Understanding Hair Transplant

A hair transplant is a surgical technique that moves hair follicles from a part of the body, known as the ‘donor site,’ to a bald or balding part of the body known as the ‘recipient site.’ It is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness. The procedure is minimally invasive and can also be used to restore eyelashes, eyebrows, beard hair, chest hair, and to fill in scars caused by accidents or surgery.

Types of Hair Transplant Techniques

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT):
- A strip of scalp is removed from the back of the head and is dissected into individual grafts.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE):
- Individual hair follicles are extracted directly from the scalp.

In India, FUE is more commonly performed due to its advantages of leaving no linear scars and having a shorter recovery time.

Step-by-Step Process of FUE Hair Transplant

Step 1: Consultation and Planning

Initial Consultation: The surgeon evaluates the patient’s scalp, discusses their preferences and expectations, and advises on the feasibility and the expected results of the transplant.
Planning: The surgeon outlines the area where the hairs will be transplanted.

Step 2: Preparation

The donor area (usually the back of the head) is trimmed to facilitate the extraction of follicles.
Local anesthesia is applied to the donor area to minimize discomfort.

Step 3: Follicle Extraction

Using a specialized micro surgical extraction instrument, individual follicles are removed from the donor area. This part is crucial and requires skilled hands to ensure the viability of the follicles.

Step 4: Graft Preservation

Extracted follicles are kept in a solution at a specific temperature to maintain their viability before transplantation.

Step 5: Recipient Area Preparation

The recipient area is then prepared for the transplant. This area does not need to be shaved; local anesthesia is applied.
Tiny incisions are made in the recipient area in a specific density and pattern to mimic natural hair growth.

Step 6: Implantation of Follicles

The extracted follicles are carefully implanted in the incisions in the recipient area.
The placement of follicles involves artistry and precision to achieve a natural appearance.

Step 7: Post-operative Care

After the procedure, the patient is given instructions on how to care for the transplanted hair.
Antibiotics and painkillers may be prescribed to prevent infection and manage any discomfort.

Step 8: Recovery and Hair Growth

Initial healing takes about 2 to 3 weeks, during which the transplanted hair will fall out—a normal part of the process.
New growth will start within a few months, and the full results are typically visible within a year.

Cost of Hair Transplant in India

The cost of a hair transplant in India varies widely depending on the extent of the procedure and the clinic’s location. On average, the cost per graft can range from INR 25 to INR 125. Here is a general breakdown:

Number of Grafts	Average Cost (INR)
500 – 1000	40,000 – 45,000
1500	42,000 – 75,000
2500	62,500 – 312,500
3000 – 3500	75,000 – 437,500

Choosing the Right Clinic

When choosing a clinic for a hair transplant in India, consider the following:

Experience and Qualification of the Surgeon: Look for a clinic with a reputable and experienced surgeon.
Technology and Technique: Ensure that the clinic uses the latest technology and follows the latest techniques.
Before and After Pictures: Ask for before and after pictures of previous patients to assess the quality of the results.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients.

Conclusion

Hair transplant surgery can significantly improve one’s appearance and self-confidence. The FUE method, widely used in India, offers a less invasive option with natural-looking results and a quick recovery time. By understanding the process and carefully selecting a qualified surgeon, individuals can achieve the best possible outcomes from their hair transplant surgery.

FAQs: How is Hair Transplant Done?

FAQ	Answer
1. How does hair transplant surgery work?	Hair transplant involves moving hair follicles from a donor area (usually the back of the scalp) to balding or thinning areas. The transplanted hair is genetically resistant to baldness, ensuring permanent results1 4 11.
2. Will the results of a hair transplant look natural?	Yes, when performed by skilled surgeons, hair transplant results can look very natural. The technique and artistry involved in placing the grafts play a crucial role in achieving a natural appearance1.
3. Is hair transplant surgery painful?	Patients are given local anesthesia in the donor and recipient areas, making the procedure virtually painless. Some mild discomfort and numbness may occur post-surgery but subside quickly1 10.
4. How long does the surgery take?	The duration depends on the number of grafts being transplanted, typically requiring a full day of surgery on an outpatient basis1 10.
5. What is the cost of hair transplant surgery?	The cost varies based on the number of grafts and the complexity of the procedure. It often includes check-ups and prescribed medicines1.
6. How many grafts will I need?	The number of grafts required is determined by the level of hair loss and the desired density. A consultation with a surgeon is necessary to estimate the exact number1.
7. What is the recovery time after surgery?	Recovery is rapid due to minimally invasive techniques. Patients typically feel fine within a couple of days, with some swelling and numbness possibly lasting a week1.
8. Can people tell I’ve had a hair transplant?	Initially, the recipient area may look a bit pink with scabs forming, but these heal within 8 to 10 days. Once the transplanted hair starts growing, the results look completely natural1.
9. When will the newly transplanted hair start growing?	New hair growth usually begins 2 to 3 months after surgery, with the hair gradually becoming thicker and fuller. Full results are visible after a year1.
10. Are the results of a hair transplant permanent?	Yes, the transplanted hair follicles are genetically resistant to baldness, ensuring that they will continue to grow hair permanently1.

How is Hair Transplant Done? An In-depth look (2024)