Hair Transplantation Procedure, also known as Hair Restoration, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at addressing hair loss and restoring natural-looking hair growth in areas of thinning or balding. It involves the transplantation of hair follicles from donor areas, typically the back or sides of the scalp, to the recipient areas, where hair loss has occurred.
How is the Procedure performed?
The Procedure starts from a consultation with a qualified hair restoration specialist or plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon evaluates the extent and pattern of hair loss, discusses the patient's goals and expectations, and determines the most suitable approach for hair restoration.
Prior to the Procedure, patients may be advised to discontinue certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the procedure or affect healing. The surgeon may also recommend hair care practices to optimize the condition of the scalp and donor hair follicles.
Hair Transplantation is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia numbs the scalp and donor areas, while sedation helps the patient relax and remain calm during the surgery.
The surgeon begins the procedure by harvesting donor hair follicles from the back or sides of the scalp, where hair growth is typically more robust and resistant to the effects of hair loss. Donor hair follicles are carefully extracted using either follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit transplantation (FUT) techniques.
FUE: Individual hair follicles are extracted using a small, specialized tool called a micro-punch. This minimally invasive technique leaves tiny, dot-like scars that are easily concealed by surrounding hair. FUT: A strip of scalp containing hair follicles is surgically removed from the donor area and dissected into individual grafts. This technique results in a linear scar along the donor area, which can be hidden by surrounding hair. |
Once the donor hair follicles are harvested, the surgeon prepares the recipient sites in the areas of thinning or balding. Microscopic incisions are made in the scalp, where the hair follicles will be implanted, following the natural hairline and pattern to achieve a natural-looking result.
The harvested donor hair follicles are meticulously transplanted into the recipient sites using specialized instruments. The surgeon strategically places the follicles to create a dense and aesthetically pleasing hairline and restore hair density in areas of thinning or baldness.
Then the surgeon closes any incisions in the donor area and applies dressings or bandages to protect the surgical sites and promote optimal healing. Patients are provided with postoperative care instructions to ensure proper wound care and minimize the risk of complications.
Hair Transplantation with Stem Cells - what is it?
Hair Transplantation using Stem Cells is an innovative approach to Hair Restoration that harnesses the regenerative properties of stem cells to promote hair growth and improve the results of traditional hair transplantation procedures.
Main features of Hair Transplantation using Stem Cells are as follows:
▶ Understanding Stem Cells: Stem Cells are undifferentiated cells with the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, including hair follicle cells. They play a crucial role in tissue regeneration and repair throughout the body, making them promising candidates for hair restoration therapies.
▶ Stem Cell Harvesting: Hair transplantation with Stem Cells typically involves harvesting stem cells from the patient's own body, often from adipose (fat) tissue or bone marrow. These stem cells are extracted using minimally invasive techniques, such as liposuction or bone marrow aspiration, under local anesthesia.
▶ Processing and Activation: Once harvested, the Stem Cells are processed and activated in the laboratory to enhance their regenerative potential. This may involve isolating and concentrating the stem cells, as well as stimulating their growth and proliferation using specialized growth factors or cytokines.
▶ Stem Cell Transplantation: Activated Stem Cells are carefully transplanted into the recipient sites using specialized instruments. The Stem Cells are strategically placed to stimulate hair follicle regeneration, improve hair density, and enhance the results of traditional hair transplantation procedures.
Hair transplantation using Stem Cells is often performed in combination with traditional hair transplantation techniques, such as follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit transplantation (FUT). This allows for a comprehensive approach to hair restoration, addressing both hair follicle regeneration and transplantation.
It's essential for patients considering Hair Transplant procedure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in these procedures to discuss their options, expectations, and any potential risks or complications. Patients can expect to see noticeable improvements in hair density and coverage over the following months, with final results becoming apparent within 6 to 12 months post-surgery.