4702+ Best Doctors for Hair Transplant

Hair transplant is a dermatological procedure aimed at addressing bald areas on the scalp by adding hair. It's a cosmetic procedure intended to improve one's appearance and increase confidence. The primary reason behind opting for a hair transplant is a condition known as pattern baldness, which accounts for the majority of hair loss cases. Pattern baldness can be attributed to various factors, including genetic predisposition, dietary influences, medication-related hair loss, stress, illness, and hormonal imbalances. Hair follicles from the donor area, which is often found at the back or sides of the head and is typically where the majority of hair growth occurs, are carefully removed during a hair transplant. After being transplanted into the recipient or balding areas, these follicles promote the development of new hair. The procedure requires precision and expertise to ensure natural-looking results.

Hair transplants can be categorized into two significant types, each with its own approach and benefits. These procedures entail removing hair follicles from the donor area, which is typically an area with more hair, and transplanting them to the recipient area where hair restoration is required. There are two main categories into which hair transplants fall;

• Follicular Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS) or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Hair Transplant:In FUSS or FUT, the surgeon makes an incision and uses stitches to close it after surgically removing a strip of skin from the donor area, which is typically on the sides or back of the head. The surgeon then painstakingly separates the donor skin into tiny follicular units or small portions under a microscope, and implants them into the recipient area to produce a natural-looking result.
• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Hair Transplant: FUE is a recognized and incredibly effective method of hair transplantation. This technique enables the transplantation of hundreds, and in some cases, even thousands of hair follicles in a single session. The surgeon creates small holes in the recipient area with the aid of a needle or blade and carefully places the hair follicles into these openings with precision. The patient is instructed to cover their head for a few days with a bandage or piece of gauze after the treatment.

Diagnostic tests are done to ensure the procedure's suitability and safety. The following diagnostic procedures are commonly conducted;

• Blood Test: A blood test is performed to evaluate various parameters, such as complete blood count, liver and kidney function, and overall health markers. This test provides valuable information about the patient's general health and helps identify any underlying medical conditions that may impact their eligibility for the hair transplant surgery.
• Blood Sugar Test: Checking blood sugar levels is an essential test to assess the patient's blood glucose levels. It helps determine if the individual has diabetes or any other conditions that may affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications during and after the hair transplant.
• Scalp Biopsy: A scalp biopsy involves the removal of a small tissue sample from the scalp for microscopic examination. This procedure helps diagnose scalp conditions, assess the hair follicles' health and density, and determine the most appropriate treatment approach for the hair transplant.
• Allergy Testing: To detect any potential adverse reactions to the anesthetic, medicines, or other chemicals used during the hair transplant process, allergy testing may be carried out. This test ensures that proper precautions are taken to minimize the risk of allergic complications.

Hair transplantation is a meticulous procedure that involves several stages and post-operative care to ensure successful results. The entire process spans over a year, covering both pre and post-transplantation phases. Here is the step-by-step description of how a hair transplant is done;

• Consultation and Preparation: Before initiating the hair transplantation procedure, an in-depth consultation takes place between the patient and the surgeon. This crucial session allows for individual assessment, determining the optimal number of grafts required and their placement. Pre-operative tests and preparations are carried out during this phase to ensure the patient's suitability for the procedure.
• Donor Graft Extraction: The donor area of the patient, which is normally found in the back and sides of the scalp, is extracted by the surgeon using specialized tools. However, alternative donor areas may be considered in some cases. Advanced FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) procedures involve the extraction of grafts individually, avoiding the creation of elongated scars on the donor area.
• Graft Preservation: During graft extraction, a dedicated team takes immediate measures to preserve the extracted grafts for successful implantation. To increase the viability of each transplant, it is meticulously cleansed, sorted according to how many hairs it has, and immersed in an active plasma solution. The grafts are then refrigerated in petri dishes until the implantation process.
• Implantation: Once an adequate number of grafts have been extracted, the surgeon proceeds with the implantation phase using the Implanter Pen DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) method. Individual grafts are loaded into the Implanter Pens by a team of nurses and passed to the surgeon. This technique enables precise control over the angle of implantation and allows for high-density placement of grafts, even among existing hair.
• Post-Operative Care: To guarantee the best healing and growth of the transplanted hair, proper aftercare is crucial. This involves gentle washing of the donor and implantation areas, protection of the transplanted grafts from external elements, avoiding excessive rubbing or impact, and minimizing direct sunlight exposure. A follow-up appointment is scheduled with the surgeon the day after the hair transplant to monitor the progress of recovery.
• Throughout the hair transplant process, patients may experience temporary phenomena such as reddening and crusting of the scalp, which are normal occurrences. In addition, once the transplanted hair adjusts and new hair fiber growth starts, a shedding process known as shock shedding may occur one to three months after the treatment. It typically takes about a year for all transplanted hair to grow and for the full success of the treatment to become noticeable.

Hair transplant in India offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing choice for individuals seeking to address hair loss. Here are the various advantages of hair transplant in detail;

• Permanent Remedies: A permanent solution to hair loss is hair transplantation. The hair follicles that were transplanted are resistant to the hormone that causes hair loss, guaranteeing long-lasting results and obviating the need for ongoing treatments.
• Enhanced Appearance: One of the significant benefits of a hair transplant is the improvement in overall appearance. The procedure allows for the restoration of a natural-looking hairline and fills in areas of thinning or baldness, resulting in a fuller and more youthful appearance.
• Low Maintenance: Once the transplanted hair has grown, it requires no special maintenance. You may wash, style, and even have haircuts on it exactly like your natural hair. There is no need for additional products or extensive care routines.
• Cost-Effective Than Other Options: Hair transplant procedures in India offer cost-effective solutions compared to other hair restoration options available globally. The affordable pricing, coupled with the quality facilities and expertise offered by Indian clinics, make it a desirable choice for individuals seeking hair restoration treatments.

Hair transplant, like any surgical intervention, has potential side effects. Here are the most common side effects associated with hair transplant;

• Hair Shedding: After the transplant, it is common for the transplanted hair to go through a shedding phase. This is a transient condition that is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. New hair growth typically follows this shedding phase.
• Infections: Although rare, there is a slight risk of infection at the surgical sites.Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage of pus.
• Crust or Pus Drainage: During the healing process, it is normal to experience crust formation around the surgical sites. This typically resolves within a week or two.
• Scalp Pain, Itching, and Swelling: Some degree of discomfort, itching, and swelling in the scalp is common after a hair transplant. It is possible to control this as a typical side effect of prescribed drugs or topical treatments.
• Inflammation of Hair Follicles: In rare cases, inflammation of hair follicles, known as folliculitis, may occur. This can cause redness, pustules, and tenderness around the transplanted hair follicles.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding during or immediately after the procedure is normal and can be controlled with pressure or dressings.
• Loss of Sensation: Temporary numbness or loss of sensation around the surgical sites may occur due to nerve irritation during the procedure. Sensation typically returns gradually over time as the nerves regenerate, but it may take several months.
• Mismatched or Thinner Hair: Hair transplant results may not always perfectly match the surrounding hair or achieve the desired density. Some areas may have thinner hair or a different texture, especially if there is limited donor hair available.
• Numbness: Temporary numbness or lack of sensation in the donor or recipient area may occur due to nerve irritation during the procedure. Sensation usually returns gradually over time as the nerves heal.
• Scarring: Hair transplant techniques have evolved to minimize scarring. However, in some cases, small scars may be visible in the donor area. Skilled surgeons strive to make these scars as discreet as possible.
• Hiccups: In rare cases, patients may experience hiccups after the procedure. This is a transient side effect that normally goes away on its own.

Recovering after a hair transplant procedure is a gradual process, and it's important to understand the timeline and expectations. It is typical for the transplanted hair to fall out 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. However, after a few months, you can expect to see new growth. Here are the recommended steps for a smooth recovery;

• Immediate Post-Surgery Care: On the first day, avoid touching or washing the surgical area. If going out, wear a hat to protect the scalp. Elevate your head with many pillows as you sleep to maintain the right angle and guard against graft damage.
• Days 2 to 4: During this period, refrain from touching, scratching, or rubbing the transplanted area. Prolonged sun exposure should also be avoided to prevent sunburn and potential damage to the transplanted hair.
• Days 5 to 7: Gradually increase the duration of shampooing to help soften the scabs on the surgical area. You can resume normal physical activities and sports at this stage.
• Weeks 2 to 4: Hair follicles enter the resting phase during this period, resulting in temporary shedding of hair shafts. Don't worry, as this is a normal part of the process. You can carry on washing and styling your hair as usual, and if you like, you can colour it.
• Months 2 to 3: Follow your doctor's recommendations and consider using medications like finasteride or minoxidil to minimize shock loss and promote hair growth.
• Months 4 to 6: Apply a strong SPF 30 sunblock when exposing your head to the sun. This helps protect the scalp and transplanted hair from sun damage.
• Months 6 to 12: You can style the transplanted hair as you choose as it keeps getting thicker and longer. Enjoy the transformation and embrace your new hair.