Hair Restoration and Replacement

Periodically I like to go back through my communications and answer some hair transplant information questions that seem to be most popular. The hair transplant procedure is not very difficult to understand theoretically but there are a lot of little questions that pop up. Today we will discuss some of these questions and hopefully give you a better idea of what the hair transplantation method is and how it can give you back the hair you desire.

Where can I get hair transplants?

In the US you will go to a doctor who has been certified in cosmetic surgery and then has done further work with hair restoration procedures. These physicians are board certified. Their diplomas should be displayed on the wall and they should be willing to show you what training they have received. Usually, these doctors are very proud of their accomplishments.

How long before the hair transplants start to grow?

When the hair grafts are inserted into the scalp there is usually a transition period before the hair follicles actually show growth. It is usually around six months. During this time the hair shaft from the grafts may likely fall out to be replaced with new hair.

How long do hair transplants last?

Hair transplants are a long term solution to hair loss. The transplanted hair follicles will continue to produce hair shaft material for years to come. Interestingly enough, the transplanted follicles from the back of the head are not susceptible to Male Pattern Baldness like the original hair that fell out was.

Where does the hair come from?

Due to problems with rejection, hair transplants from other individuals are not generally tried. Instead, the hair grafts are removed from the back of the patient’s head where there is usually very good hair growth even if the top of the head is completely bald.

Does the hair transplant procedure hurt?

The actual surgical techniques are done with a local anesthetic applied to the scalp. After wards there is some irritation but it is not great. The implant area sometimes feels like it has a sunburn for a few days.

Do hair transplants leave scars?

There is no scarring at the insertion area of the scalp. New techniques allow the cosmetic surgeon to actually insert the follicles into very tiny holes like pin pricks. This irritation goes away after a few days. At the donation area there will be slight scars that can be alleviated with scar softening medication. Also, these scars are usually covered with hair that has remained at the back of the head.

What is a micro hair transplant?

Micro-hair transplants are the best ones available because they look so natural. The surgeon will implant the follicles in groups of from one to three which is how the hair grows naturally. The hair grafts you don’t want are strip grafts and plug grafts. Both of these are comprised of actual pieces of scalp which are very noticeable when implanted.

Can I get an eyebrow transplant?

Yes. In fact eyebrow and other facial hair transplants were actually how the hair transplantation method was originally developed. In Japan, before World War II, a lot of research was done on these methods but most of the information was loss during the war.

I hope this question and answer post has helped to clear up some of the questions you may have had about this hair restoration procedure. If you have any other concerns about hair transplant information them drop me a line and I will answer them here or directly. Remember, information is power keep learning more about your hair loss situation in order to make the best decision for your situation.