Hair Transplant – What to Know Before the Surgery
The evolution of hair transplant techniques continues to provide improvements when it comes to the quality of the results patients can enjoy. Even with the high-quality results provided by modern hair restoration surgery, there are still some items you need to know before the procedure in order to be properly informed and educated about having a hair transplant.
Hair Transplant Surgery – What to Know in Advance
While there are multiple hair transplant options available to patients, the hair restoration option that provides the most natural and long-lasting results is FUE hair transplant surgery. FUE, also known as Follicular Unit Extraction, is when a surgeon moves the hair grafts from the donor area of the body to the balding section of the scalp on an individual basis. The donor area of the scalp is usually located on the back and sides of the scalp as the hair in this area of the scalp is resistant to balding. Since the hair follicles are harvested on an individual basis, there is no need for a linear scalp scar to be created/left behind by the surgeon.
Before you have the actual procedure, you need to schedule a consultation appointment with the surgeon of choice to make sure you are an ideal candidate for the surgery. For one thing, the hair loss might not be the result of genetics or heredity. The hair loss on the scalp could be the result of an autoimmune condition or a psychological condition that needs to be addressed before moving on to treating the balding section of the scalp with a hair transplant. In addition, the surgeon will need to perform a thorough examination of your health to make sure you are healthy enough to have the surgical procedure. Plus, there are times when there might not be enough high-quality donor hair on the body to provide the results you desire when it comes to the appearance of the hairline. Keep in mind that each patient has unique needs which means you might be experiencing hair loss in an early stage so a medication such as minoxidil might be a viable option at the moment to stimulate the growth of hair (for as long as the medication is used on a regular basis).
One of the most important steps in the hair transplant process takes place before you even meet with a surgeon to discuss your hair loss. You will need to research the credentials and results provided by the doctor you have in mind to ensure the physician is properly trained and experienced in performing a hair transplant. It is easier than you think to make sure the doctor is board-certified by a recognized medical organization. For example, you can check the website of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery and search for the surgeon you have in mind to perform your procedure. The website lists the doctors who are certified by the organization as well as the year they were first certified and the year they earned their 10-year recertification (if applicable). If you do not find the specific doctor you are searching for on the website, it is a good indication that the doctor is likely not the ideal choice to perform a procedure such as a hair transplant that requires both surgical skill and an artistic eye.
Hair Transplant – How is the Cost Determined?
The cost of a hair transplant varies per patient and there are a number of factors that go into determining the final cost. The cost depends on the type of procedure that is performed, the number of hair grafts that are needed, the medical office/doctor that you visit (as more experienced doctors and those with industry-leading medical techniques and equipment will likely charge a higher price), the area of the country where it is performed, anesthesia fees, the extent of the work that will need to be done, and any additional fees charged by the surgeon or the medical facility where the hair transplant is performed.
Hair Transplant – Final Results Information
The final results will not be visible immediately after the surgery is completed. In general, it can take anywhere from twelve to eighteen months for the final results to be visible. In order to make sure you enjoy a successful recovery period; it is important to follow the instructions the doctor will provide you with after the surgery. In addition to common conditions such as swelling, bruising, and some pain that can occur at the start of the recovery period, the surgeon will also make sure you know how to properly wash your hair after the surgery and how to tend to your newly transplanted hair grafts so they will not be damaged or dislodged once they are placed in the targeted area of the scalp.
In addition to the items listed above, the procedure can also help you gain a greater amount of sell-confidence and an improved self-image. Keep the items discussed above in mind when you are navigating the hair transplant process to help you make the best decision for your individual hair restoration needs.
