What to Expect During a Hair Transplant Procedure

By Dr. Parth Shah, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon at Casa Dentique, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai

Hair loss can be a distressing experience, affecting not only your appearance but also your self-confidence. If you are considering a hair transplant to restore your hair and regain your confidence, it is essential to understand what the procedure involves. As an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon at Casa Dentique in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, I have assisted many patients through their hair transplant journey. Here’s a detailed guide on what to expect during a hair transplant procedure.

1. Initial Consultation

The first step in the hair transplant process is an initial consultation with your surgeon. During this appointment, we will discuss your medical history, hair loss pattern, and treatment goals. A thorough examination of your scalp will be conducted to assess the quality and quantity of donor hair. This consultation is crucial for determining the most suitable hair transplant technique for you, such as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT).

2. Pre-Procedure Preparation

Once you decide to proceed with the hair transplant, you will receive pre-procedure instructions. These may include:

• Avoiding blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications, and certain supplements for a few weeks before the procedure.
• Refraining from smoking and alcohol consumption to promote better healing.
• Washing your hair thoroughly on the day of the procedure, as instructed by your surgeon.

3. Day of the Procedure

On the day of your hair transplant, you can expect the following steps:

1. Administration of Anesthesia

The procedure begins with the administration of local anesthesia to numb the donor and recipient areas of your scalp. This ensures that you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. In some cases, mild sedation may also be provided to help you relax.

1. Harvesting Donor Hair

• FUE Method: Individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area (typically the back or sides of the scalp) using a specialized tool. This method leaves tiny, dot-like scars that are barely noticeable once healed.
• FUT Method: A strip of skin containing hair follicles is surgically removed from the donor area. The strip is then divided into individual follicular units under a microscope. This method may leave a linear scar, but it is usually well-concealed by surrounding hair.

1. Preparing the Recipient Area

Once the donor hair is harvested, the recipient area (where the hair will be transplanted) is prepared. Tiny incisions or slits are made in the recipient area to create sites for the new hair follicles. The placement and angle of these incisions are carefully planned to ensure a natural-looking result.

1. Implanting the Hair Follicles

The harvested hair follicles are meticulously implanted into the recipient area. This step requires precision and artistry to ensure that the transplanted hair grows in the correct direction and mimics natural hair growth patterns. The procedure can take several hours, depending on the number of grafts being transplanted.

4. Post-Procedure Care

After the procedure, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results. These may include:

• Keeping the scalp clean and avoiding touching or scratching the transplanted area.
• Using prescribed medications to manage pain, swelling, and prevent infection.
• Sleeping with your head elevated for a few days to minimize swelling.
• Avoiding strenuous activities, direct sunlight, and swimming for a specified period.
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

5. Recovery and Results

The initial recovery period for a hair transplant typically lasts about 7 to 10 days. During this time, you may experience some swelling, redness, and scabbing in the treated areas. These symptoms are normal and should subside within a week or two.

Hair growth from the transplanted follicles will begin within a few months. It is common for the transplanted hair to shed within the first few weeks after the procedure, but this is temporary. New hair growth will start to become noticeable around 3 to 4 months, with full results visible after 9 to 12 months. The new hair will continue to grow naturally and can be cut, styled, and treated just like your existing hair.

Conclusion

A hair transplant procedure can be a life-changing experience, restoring not only your hair but also your confidence and self-esteem. Understanding what to expect during the procedure can help alleviate any anxieties and ensure you are well-prepared for each step of the journey. At Casa Dentique in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you are considering a hair transplant, I encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore your options and embark on the path to a fuller, more confident you.

Dr. Parth Shah
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Casa Dentique, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai