What is Hair Transplantation?
Rearrangement and Redistribution of existing Live Hair Roots from Donor Area to RecipientArea is called Hair Transplantation. It is a simple, superficial Procedure. FUT is the method in which hair from the Donor Area is excised, slivered, dissected andimplanted on to the Recipient Area under strict aseptic conditions. FUE is the method where we directly extract individual grafts randomly from donor area and implant them in the Recipient area.
Are there any side effects with HT? Is it painful?
Absolutely no major side effects are recorded in centre where, qualifies doctors under strict aseptic conditions perform the procedure. Temporary minor side effects like facial puffiness, black eyes are observed, who didn’t follow the precautions properly
Is Hair Transplantation painful
This procedure is done under local anaesthesia, for thatwe use tiny needles like insulin syringes for anaesthetic drug installation. The pain will be subsided within 1-2min after the injections. We also apply cold compresses and vibration technique to even reduce that minimal pain. We also use local anaesthetic ointment [Prilox] 1hr before the procedure to eliminate the sensation of discomfort
Does it really work?
YES, the transplanted hair will regrow from 3rd month onwards, with an initial transient fall phase after the procedure. Total growth period extends from 8-18 months
How long it will take for surgery?
Usually the procedure takes approximately 4-6hrs. The duration depends on certain factors like number of grafts and techniques involvedlike FUT, FUE, or Combined
What are the precautions to be taken before surgery?
Even though it is a simple and superficial procedure, there are certain precautions which need to be taken for achieving better outcome. These precautions will be explained by the doctor and the counselling staff well before your date of surgery
When can we expect growth of the hair?
Thin filamentous hair growth can be seen by 4-6 months. But you have to wait for at least 8-18 months to see an appreciable growth. At the same time, it varies from patient to patient
Can we cut or shave the hair after growth?
The transplanted hair grows continuously for the rest of the life, along with spontaneous cyclical fall and regrowth phases, it can be cut, trim and even tonsure it. You can even dye grey transplanted hair
What are FUT & FUE Methods?
FUT: Follicular Unit Transplantation, also known as Strip method, performed under local anaesthesia, a thin linear strip is excised from donor area and suturing is done to close it, Slivering, Dissection are done to get Ultra Refined Follicular Unit Grafts, after healing donor area is left with a thin linear scar through which hair grows with trichophytic closure technique.
FUE: Follicular Unit Excision, also known as No suture method or No touch methodor Direct hair implantation(DHI), Performed under local anaesthesia, only motorised punches are used to extract individual grafts directly, with micro punches of sizes 0.75- 1.0 mm and random extraction of the grafts is done from throughout the donor area.
In both the techniques the Ultra Refined grafts are implanted into bald area by making micro holes with sapphire tip blades
Which Techniques do you follow for implantation?
We perform Lateral Slit Technique by making micro incisions in the Bald area using micro needles with sizes ranging from 0.8 to 1.0 mm depending on the size of the graft. We also do Stick and Place method
What are the equipments you are using?
Various state-of-art equipments are used in our clinics in harvesting and implanting the Ultra Refined Follicular units or grafts.
(i)Mantis microscope (UK)- For slivering the strip
(ii)Stereo microscope – For dissecting
(iii) Video microscope – for slivering and dissection
(iv) Magnifying loops – for implantation
(v) Safe scribe(USA) – for extraction of graft in FUE technique
What are the benefits of latest technology?
The field of hair transplantation like any other fields has witnessed revolutionary advancements. The primary aim of a competent hair transplant surgeon is to achieve optimum result with natural looking and undetectable transplants with artistic hairline.
What is TRYCHOPHYTIC CLOSURE?
It is a specialized technique, while performing FUT method to close the donor wound edges. In this we deepithelise either upper or lower edge of the wound and close it, in such a way that the hair grows through the scar and camouflage it
How long we have to continue the medicine after the surgery?
Simple antibiotics and analgesics need to be used for 7-10 days after surgery
Do we require any medicine for the existing hair?
YES, the people with Male pattern baldness or Androgenetic alopecia need the medical support to prevent the progression of baldness as it is dynamic phenomenon particularly in young age
What causes MPHL (Male Pattern Hair Loss)?
] MPHL is also called Androgenetic alopecia, the name itself indicate it occurs due to interaction of hormones and genes of either maternal, paternal or both. The dihydrotestosterone(DHT) hormoneis the main culprit for establishment of baldness in sensitized people. It causes miniaturization of hair follicle which takes months-years to establish in baldness.
Testosterone- 5alpha reductase-II enzyme – > DHT->Hair roots->androgen receptors->baldness
What causes Female Pattern Hair Loss?
FPHL is multifactorial in origin, typical male pattern baldness is seen in approximately 20% of female, others are mostly hormonal changes, life style changes and psychological stress. The pattern of loss in females differs from men in that the frontal hairline is retained well with diffuse thinning of frontal and mid to post vertex regions
Who are eligible candidates to undergo hair transplantation?
A person must have realistic expectations (acquire knowledge about HT through websites and personal consultations) regarding their outcome and they must know that genetic baldness is dynamic phenomenon which progresses in later life also. They must have sufficient donor area and must be medically fit to undergo the procedure. The final decision depends on doctor
When can I go back to work?
As it is a day care procedure, no hospitalization is required. Evenimmediately you can attend any indoor office work normally. Usually, from 2nd day on wards you can go back to your office
Are there any medical contraindications for HT?
Even diabetics and hypertensives can safely undergo this procedure provided the conditions are under control.
Those who have abnormal bleeding tendencies, with prosthetic heart valves (post cardiac surgeries) are not suggested for HT.People suffering with debilitating condition like kidney or liver failure or malignancy are not suitable for HT
In which cases FUE better than FUT method?
Anybody can choose FUE over FUT as it depends purely on their individual preference and doctor’s advice.{i} Forbody hair transplantation like beard and chest wall we do only FUE technique to extract grafts from those areas.
Apart from that FUE is preferred for following conditions
{ii} who have tight donor area(no laxity)
{iii}those who do not want semicircular scar on the back
{iv}those who want to maintain their hair very short
{v}those who want to resume their work early (athlete)
{vi}Previous FUT done cases
NOTE: To cover advanced grades of baldness(grades IV-VII) we need morenumber of grafts so we do combined method that is FUE and FUT
Our Centres
Well equipped with all the latest medical and surgical equipment and backed by highly qualified team of hair transplant assistants. We carry out extremely successful hair transplantations. We take immense pride in our ability to ensure high quality clinical care at all levels of treatment. Our team of doctors are internationally highly certified and qualified in the field of hair restoration. They are competent and well versed with all types of medical treatments which are scientifically approved with FDA. They are highly skilled in performing all the latest techniques of hair restoration.
What is the difference between Hair & Follicular Unit / graft?
The hair is a non-living external growth arising out of the skin surface from a live root in the dermis of scalp. This is also called as shaft. Each hair contains one live root only.
A Follicular unit or graft contains group (1-5) of such hairs. They arise as a single unit from the scalp. In a hair transplant procedure, these follicular units are extracted individually and intact and implanted on to the bald area, so that the survival and density will be good
What should be the minimum time gap between individual sittings?
It depends upon the type of procedure you choose.
- In FUT [Strip method], if the patient requires a second session, he / she needs to wait for at least 4-5 months after the first session.
- In FUE method, no fixed time interval is required. It may vary from few days to few weeks. You can go for regular smaller sessions of 500-1000 grafts [lunch hour session] or a single large session of 2000-3000 grafts in a day”
What is the life of transplanted Hair?
For transplantation we extract grafts from the permanent zone of donor area which is supposed to stay for long time, so life of transplanted hair depends on the genetic life of the grafts. Transplanted hair undergoes cyclical fall and regrow phases just like by birth hair as it is not artificial
Will transplanted hair ever fall out?
The transplanted hair also follows the normal growthcycle. Normally for every 2-6 years our hair falls with temporary regression phase followed by resting phase. spontaneous regrowth occurs 4-6monthsafter the resting phase.
And generally after transplantation between 4-8 weeks one can experience a temporary loss oftransplanted hair shafts,which regrow from 3rd month onward, and follow the normal growth cycle
Will my new hair look natural?
YES, As the transplanted hair is extracted from your own scalp.
Due to the latest techniques in the field of transplantation like URFUG, Mega sessions and Dense packing we can create good camouflage over bald area.We create Mature Hairlines whichgives a natural Undetectable look after growth
What is the maximum number of hair grafts that you can transplant in a single session?
We can transplant up to 6000 grafts in a single session with combined FUT and FUE techniques. Even we can club body hair also. But it depends on certain factors like
{i} Density of donor area
{ii} Laxity of donor area
{iii} Width of permanent zone
{iv} Quality of the grafts.
Why does the new hair have to fall out?
It is common for the newly implanted hairs to fall out during the healing process.Because they are in different stages of growth cycle.
But this fall is transient and up to 30 % to 80 % of transplanted hair may get effected.
This process is completely normal and you should not worry as the dermal papilla of the hair root is firmly implanted in your scalp and will re-grow again
Is there any age limit for HT?
Usually we prefer age limit of>20 years, provide other factors are satisfactory[some consider 25 years].No limit for upper age. But the patient should be fit to undergo the procedure.
For younger age people proper counselling is necessary regarding the natural progression of baldness. They always must have realistic expectations
Can Diabetics and Hypertensives undergo the HT procedure?
Diabetics can undergo Hair Transplantation provided the diabetes is under control.
Hypertensives can also undergo HT who are in good control but these may people need physician advice for fitness to proceed
What are the advanced techniques in H.T.?
The Advanced techniques in the Hair Transplantation are
- -Ultra refined follicular unit grafting
-Dense packing (35 to 45% of filling per sq.cm.)[normal density is app. 80-100 grafts/sq.cm.]
-Super mega sessions / Giga sessions (> than 4000 grafts in 5-6 hours)
-Trichophytic Closure to camouflage the scar of FUT
– Body hair transplantation from beard and chest wall to scalp.
-Facial hair Transplantations. - -Reconstruction of congenitally absent Eyebrow, Moustache, Beard and repair of same if they get damaged.
- -Scalp micro pigmentation -Burn scar transplantation -Scarring alopecia transplants
- -Skin grafting area transplantation
What are the latest methods in Hair Transplantation?
“Latest method of graft extraction in Hair Transplantation is F U E (FOLLICULAR UNIT EXTRACTION), or D H T (DIRECT HAIR TRANSPLANTATION),Body hair transplantation g) Facial hair Transplantation ( Eye Brow, mustache, beard Hair transplantation ).
Combined FUT and FUE techniques in 1 session is our centre unique speciality.”
Does transplanted hair grow in burn scar?
Transplanted hair grows in burn scar. But the relative density (35 to 40%) is achieved in two sessions due to fibrosis of scar tissue.
What is PRP?
It is Platelet rich plasma.It is prepared fromones own blood[Autologous],which contains platelets growth factors and cytokines, which stop the current hair fall , promotes the quality of existing hair and regrow the dormancy roots of the scalp.
What is GFC?
GFC is growth factor concentrate, more potent preparation than PRP. Preparation procedure is same but the materials used to prepare GFC varies from PRP. It needs 3-4 months regular sessions, later needs booster injections to sustain the benefit. Both GFC and PRP can be used in combination with other hair loss treatments like Minoxidil or Finasteride to get maximum best results.
Both GFC and PRP can be given after the hair transplant to promote the growth of the transplanted roots.
What is SMP?
Scalp Micro Pigmentation is a simple superficial procedure done under local anaesthesia to give a buzz cut look in the bald area without real hair.
It is a medical tattoo to camouflage the FUT scar on the donor area.
It is also used to increase the apparent density in bald area with sparse hair.
It can be done to total bald area if the donor area in not sufficient and in scarring alopecias also
with proper maintenance it can stay for 2-5 years
What is the role of P R P ?
Autologus Platelet Rich Plasma has the ability to promote wound healing and increase hair density after Hair Transplantation [ Few Studies support this].
What are the Precautions for PRP or GFC ?
- Avoid combing or touching for 24hrs.
- Take gentle headwash after 24hrs with Ph balanced shampoos.
- Avoid heavy exercise, swimming,sonaand steam for 3 days.
- Can do normal indoor office work from day 1 itself.
PRE-OPERATIVE FAQs
What medications do I need to avoid before surgery?
“Avoid Aspirin and other anti inflammatory drugs 7-14 days before the procedure. Many prescription and non-prescription medications, over the counter products [Ayurvedic and homeopathy] should be avoided.
Always inform using any medication and health status to the doctor.
Avoid Anti depressants [tricycle anti depressants],blood thinners[heparin, coumarins etc]Beta blockers and MAO inhibitors 10-14 days before the procedure. Always inform regarding any medication to the doctor.”
Do I need to mention my medical condition?
Yes, It’s a must to inform each and every detailed to regarding any medical suggestion to doctor. Like Hypertension, Heart compliant, Diabetes, Epilepsy, Asthma, Allergy, Hepatitis, and other liver problems always inform well before the procedure.
What is the care to be taken before coming to the surgery?
“1day before the procedure and on the same day before coming to transplant a through head wash with anti dandruff shampoo must [Beta dine-AD and or candid TV shampoo ] must be done.
Do not put any gels or styling agents over the scalp and at the same time avoid wearing hairpiece and wigs on that day before the procedure.
Always bring your medical reports, wear open shirt and T-shirt must be avoided and have a regular simple breakfast.”
Any particular type of food to be avoided before the procedure?
Avoid spicy diet and coffee and tea for the day. You can have your simple breakfast for the morning session and can have light lunch for the afternoon session.
Can I smoke?
Avoid smoking as early as one week before the procedure and 3-4 weeks after the procedure. Nicotine is not good for hair also. (Causes vasoconstriction)
For how long I have to avoid alcohol?
Avoid consuming alcohol at least one week before and 3-4 weeks after the procedure.
Can I use my regular Vitamin tablets or Herbal products?
No, stop all vitamin tablets and herbal products minimum of 1 week before the procedure.
Can I shave my head before the surgery?
“No, you can keep it long as it will help cover the donor area after the Strip removal.
For FUE also in limited graft extraction case it will help to camouflage the donor area.”
Can I drive on that day?
No, you may feel drowsy for sometime on that day due to Anesthesia, so always bring someone for help on the day of procedure.
What are the things to be taken care before coming to the hospital?
“Bring your consultation sheet (prescription) along with blood test reports which we have advised you to be done before the procedure.
Take your medication like anti hypertensive and oral hypoglycemic before the surgery as per doctor’s advice. (If you are hypertensive or diabetic)
Avoid wearing T-shirt on that day wear open button shirt.
Please do not bring any valuables to the office on that day.
Always bring an attendent with you on day of procedure.”
When should I arrive and leave?
“If you are out of station always try to reach 1 day prior to the procedure.
If you are local reach the clinic at least 1hr before the scheduled time so that everything will go on time.
Every patient must come for one post operative head wash in our clinic within 24 hrs of the procedure.”
POST-OPERATIVE FAQs
When should I come for next visit?
Within 24 hrs you must come to the clinic for first head wash. Next visit depends on donor area suture line closure. (If non-absorbable stitches are there, they have to be removed after one week.)
Can I take regular head wash at home?
“Yes, you must take regular head wash with Johnson’s baby shampoo and sterile water. The shampoo must be mixed with water [dilution]. Sterile water can be prepared at home by boiling of the water for half an hour. Later allow it to come to normal temperature for usage.
First gently tap the transplanted area with the diluted shampoo water later use the boiled cold water for cleaning with tapping only. Always tap with palm of your hand while cleaning. Do not do through and fro movement over the transplanted area as it cause loss of grafts.
(If boiling and cooling of water is not possible in your circumstances you can use mineral water also)”
Can I do my regular GYM?
No, avoid Gym for 3-4 wks ,as the exercises cause vasodilatation which is not desirable at this time. If they are particular then go for slight walk from 3rd week onwards.
Can I wear my helmet while going to office?
“Yes ,you can wear it but as it is not sterile always cover the transplanted area with washed cotton hand kerchief which you can change everyday.
You can also put a loose baseball cap over the hand kerchief while going outside till 1 month. We have to avoid exposure to rain water, dust and sunlight to transplanted area till 1 month.”
Should I follow any special diet restrictions?
No need. You can have whatever food you from 2nd day on wards .It must include good protein.
How long I should avoid work?
No need. You can have whatever food you want from the 2nd day onwards. It must include good protein
Usually I go out of station for job can it be manageable?
Yes, you can travel from next day onwards. Only take care regarding head wash [use mineral water ] and cover the transplanted area properly during the transit time.
After how many days of the procedure it is safe to use my wig?
Wait for minimum of 2 weeks after the procedure to wear wig or hair piece.
While healing what are the changes I can expect in transplanted area?
“Initially mild redness and erythema for 2-3 days will be seen. Later scabbing will be seen by 7 days ,after 3-4 weeks they slowly fall away. Do not attempt to remove them with force as it may cause loss of graft.
After 1 week sometimes mild itching will occur it may be due to healing process and dryness of the area. Nothing to worry put coconut oil over the transplanted area at night time.
3-4 weeks after the procedure the transplanted hair will fall temporarily ,later the growth will be started from the roots only.”
When can I start my hair loss medication? (Finapecia tablets and Minoxidil lotion)
You can start the medication from 7th to 10th day after the procedure
Regarding transplanted area how long I has to take medication?
Regarding transplantation you can take the medication for 7-10 days only which we will provide you.
After how long I can expect growth?
“It will take 6-8 months for optimum growth. Total growth period will extend up to 18 months.
This is the hardest point regarding transplantation ,but once growth occur you can maintain the hair normally as it does not need any special medication or oils or shampoo’s. It will automatically grow even if you cut it, tonsure it or trim it.
Regarding any further clarification always consult your doctors.”