Due to surgical advances with better results, interest in hair replacement surgery has increased significantly in the last decade. Fortunately, the old “plug” look of the past has been replaced by more refined techniques and perfectly natural results, even after careful inspection.
In the past, the only method for hair replacement surgery required removing a strip of scalp from the back of the head, known as a Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT). In this procedure, the strip is divided into several hundred to several thousand smaller grafts. These grafts are inserted into small slits in the scalp and must be placed in the proper direction to mimic natural hair growth. While some of the grafts may contain up to three or four hairs, it is necessary to use a number of grafts containing only one or two hairs to create a natural look, for example along the hairline. If the incision is well closed, the scar from this surgery is almost imperceptible.
Today, another method is also offered, known as FUE, which stands for Follicular Unit Excision. FUE involves removing individual hair follicles from the back of the head, rather than using a strip method. You can choose to apply a dressing for a day or two to the donor area.
In the first ten days you will be guided on how to clean the scalp. The head and scalp may experience mild discomfort, but this can be controlled with medication. Swelling in the treated area is likely, but should not last longer than a few days to a week at most. Cold compresses may be recommended. Redness in the transplanted area is also very common and may be visible during the first week after surgery. Newly transplanted hair usually falls out within six weeks of the procedure. This, however, is absolutely normal. New hair growth will take about four to six months to start showing, but it will require 18 to 24 months for the full remaining growth to take place.
There are pros and cons to both methods, which your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation. It is crucial that you follow the instructions for post-operative visits and the care he provides. By changing the way you look, cosmetic surgery can help improve the way you feel.
