Hair transplantation is the most natural and permanent solution for individuals facing hair loss. This method was first performed in Japan in the 1930s and has evolved over the years to incorporate modern techniques and advanced equipment. In hair transplantation, healthy hair follicles from the patient’s own body are implanted in areas requiring treatment (typically the scalp, eyebrows, or beard) to increase the likelihood of acceptance by the body. Hair transplantation is performed using various methods, and the doctor selects the most suitable option based on the patient’s desired outcome and budget.
As hair transplantation has gained significant popularity in Iran in recent years, many questions arise regarding its methods and conditions. Here are some frequently asked questions about hair transplantation:
1. Is hair transplantation only suitable for men?
Hair loss affects both men and women. Various hair transplant methods are used depending on the type of hair loss or baldness. For example, the FUE method is more popular among men but is also used for women experiencing male-pattern hair loss. The article *“How is hair transplantation performed for women?”* thoroughly covers this topic.
2.Where are donor follicles extracted from?
For a successful hair transplant, follicular units are extracted from areas of the patient’s scalp or body. Using follicles from another person would cause the body to recognize them as foreign and reject the transplant. Typically, hair follicles are taken from the back of the head and above the neck (nuchal area). In rare cases where there aren’t enough healthy hairs in this area, follicles may be harvested from other parts of the body, such as the arms or chest.
3.What are the different hair transplant methods?
The oldest method was FUT, which has become obsolete due to the removal of large strips from the donor area, leaving long-lasting scars and stitches. Improved methods like FIT and FUE, which involve individual graft extraction without surgery, became common, but implantation was still done through incisions. In recent years, the SUT method, using advanced equipment without damaging grafts, has gained popularity. Following that, the MicroFIT method, which allows the transplantation of the highest number of grafts without surgery, is used in advanced hair transplant centers.
4. Is hair transplantation painful?
During the procedure, local anesthesia is injected into the recipient area and donor site, numbing the scalp within minutes, so the patient feels no pain. After a few hours, as the anesthesia wears off, the patient may experience mild discomfort in the transplanted areas, for which painkillers or ointments are typically prescribed for the first one or two days.
5. How long does a hair transplant take?
The duration depends on the extent of hair loss and the area requiring transplantation. Larger bald areas may require multiple sessions. The method used also affects the duration, but modern techniques typically complete the procedure in a single 4- to 6-hour session.
6. What is the latest hair transplant method?
The latest methods include SUT and MicroFIT, both performed using automated micromotors, allowing high-density transplantation without damaging grafts. Since 2010, the use of an implanter pen in the MicroFIT method has enabled direct transplantation without incisions. Direct hair transplantation, like other methods, involves harvesting and implanting, but the harvested hairs are implanted quickly using the implanter pen, resulting in natural and successful outcomes.
7. What is the best hair transplant method?
Modern methods like SUT and MicroFIT, which use automated tools for graft harvesting, have eliminated many drawbacks of traditional methods, offering advantages such as no surgery, no scarring, and healthy follicles. In direct MicroFIT transplantation, there’s no need to shave the head, make incisions, or use stitches, leading to a very short recovery period. Another key advantage of MicroFIT is the ability to transplant 80–90 follicles per square centimeter, providing three to four times higher density than FUE.
8. How long is the recovery period after a hair transplant?
As hair transplantation is a non-invasive procedure performed without general anesthesia, the recovery period is short. However, the method used directly affects recovery time. With modern methods, only the first few days require rest, and special post-transplant care is needed for a few weeks.
9. How is the cost of a hair transplant calculated?
The cost depends on several factors, primarily the size of the area to be transplanted, which requires more follicles and longer procedure time for larger areas. Other factors include the transplant method, the clinic’s reputation and equipment, and the doctor’s expertise and experience.
10. Do transplanted hairs fall out?
After transplantation, weaker hairs in the treated area may shed due to the shock to the scalp but typically regrow later. Transplanted follicles may also experience temporary shedding after a few weeks, but this is superficial. After three to four months, the follicles resume growth with their original characteristics.
11. When will the final results of a hair transplant be visible?
As mentioned, you may notice hair shedding in the transplanted area a few weeks after the procedure. Don’t worry—transplanted hairs begin regrowing around the fourth month. Hair growth is a slow process, even for those without hair loss, and it takes about 12–15 months for strong, healthy follicles to grow and become fully visible.
12. Are hair transplant results permanent?
Since donor hairs are genetically identical to your other hairs, there’s no risk of rejection. Transplanted follicles are genetically resistant to baldness and continue to grow throughout your life. However, you may notice slight hair loss in other areas of the scalp, which can be addressed with complementary treatments as advised by your doctor.
13. Is there an age limit for hair transplantation?
The ideal age range for hair transplant candidates is typically 25–50 years. However, it’s not mandatory to be in this range. In younger individuals, hair loss patterns may be irregular and ongoing, while in older individuals, physical weakness or medical conditions may prevent transplantation.
14. What are the restrictions before a hair transplant?
The most important pre-transplant care includes avoiding smoking (cigarettes, hookah, e-cigarettes, etc.) and alcohol for one week before the procedure, as nicotine causes excessive bleeding and alcohol thins the blood. Consult your doctor about your diet and inform them if you’re taking medications, especially blood thinners like aspirin. It’s recommended to read the article *“Pre- and Post-Hair Transplant Care for MicroFIT”* for detailed guidance.
15. Do I need to shave my head before a hair transplant?
During the consultation, your hair should be at its natural length so the doctor can assess its density and growth direction. In the FUE method, the entire head must be shaved before the procedure for precision. However, modern methods like MicroFIT do not require shaving.
16. Is general anesthesia required for a hair transplant?
In older methods like FUT, which involved strip harvesting, general anesthesia was used. In modern methods, especially direct MicroFIT transplantation using micro-tools, pain is minimal and managed with local anesthesia injected into the scalp.
17. What is the best season for a hair transplant?
There’s no ideal season for a hair transplant, as it can be performed year-round. However, in summer, avoid direct sunlight, which can harm transplanted follicles. In winter, avoid tight or thick hats that could damage the grafts. The best time is when you can rest at home and protect your scalp and overall health.
18. Are there restrictions after a hair transplant?
For six months post-transplant, avoid using razors or clippers to cut your hair. To strengthen transplanted follicles, refrain from using hair care or styling products like gels, oils, dyes, or any chemically formulated products for six months. Even after seeing final results, avoid chemical products to prevent damage to follicles.
19. What should I eat after a hair transplant?
A balanced diet rich in protein, including fruits, vegetables, and meat, promotes better hair growth and enhances results. If you have deficiencies in vitamins or minerals like iron, vitamin D, or biotin, consult your doctor about using supplements or multivitamins.
20. Can a hair transplant fail?
A good candidate for a hair transplant requires physical health, appropriate age, a suitable donor area, and other factors. The doctor’s expertise and the chosen method also impact success. If a specialist determines you’re eligible for a transplant, following pre- and post-transplant care guidelines will help you achieve the desired results to a great extent.
