What is a Hair Transplant Surgery?

A hair transplant is a cosmetic surgery designed to implant hair over the scalp, typically taken from the back of the head. This procedure is often sought after by individuals experiencing hair loss or thinning, aiming to restore a fuller head of hair.

How is a Hair Transplant Done?

The hair transplant procedure involves several steps:

1. Harvesting Hair: The surgeon removes hair from the back of the head using small cuts. This area, known as the donor site, typically has more hair and is less prone to balding.

2. Preservation: The harvested hair follicles are preserved in Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP), prepared from the patient's own blood. PPP is believed to enhance the growth and health of the transplanted hair.

3. Implantation: The preserved hair follicles are then implanted into the front of the scalp or other desired areas within 30 minutes. 4.15m lab activated PRP is injected on the carpet area.

Types of Hair Transplant Surgeries

There are two major types of hair transplant surgeries: Follicular Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Both procedures are performed in the operation theatre under local anesthesia.

1. Follicular Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS)

• The surgeon removes a 25cmx10m strip of skin from the back of the head. The scalp is then sewn closed.
• The strip of removed scalp is divided into 2,000 to 2500 tiny grafts, each containing one or a few hairs.
• These grafts are then implanted into the bald or thinning areas.

2. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

• The surgeon shaves a section of the back of the scalp.
• Hair follicles are removed one by one from this area.
• The area heals with small dots, covered by existing hair.
• The extracted follicles are then implanted into the desired areas.

• Usually healthy 2s and 3s grafts are harvested.

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  Hair Transplant Procedure Details

  Once the hair is harvested, both FUSS and FUE procedures follow similar steps:

• The surgeon cleans and numbs the area where the hair will be implanted. We mumb the front of the head with only 2 injections which are painless.
• Holes or slits are created with a scalpel or needle.

• Each graft is delicately placed into one of the holes. 

  We do around 2500 follicle implants in a day. The process takes about 4-8 hours, depending on the size of the transplant. Additional procedures may be required if hair loss continues or if a thicker head of hair is desired. Schedule an appointment with Amrita Hospital for an advanced hair transplant in Kerala.

  Duration of Effects

• The effects of a hair transplant are mostly permanent.

• About 20% of transplanted hair may fall out within the first-month post-surgery, but this will regrow after three to four months.

  Post-Hair Transplant Surgery Recovery and Expectations

• Natural Look: The transplanted hair will look natural and grow in the same direction as the existing hair. Hairline is wavy and single.
• Scars and Other Areas: Hair transplants can be done over scars and in regions like the eyebrows, mustache, or beard.
• Recovery Time: This is a daycare procedure with minimal downtime.
• Potential Complications: Post-surgery complications can include bleeding, infection, and swelling.
• Pain Management: The entire procedure is performed under local or regional anesthesia, minimizing pain during the surgery.

• Surgery Duration: The duration depends on the number of hairs needed to cover the area. 

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  A hair transplant is a viable option for those looking to restore their hair and boost their confidence. With procedures like FUSS and FUE, patients can achieve natural-looking results with minimal recovery time. As with any medical procedure, it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeon to understand the risks and benefits and determine the best approach for individual needs.