What You Should Know Before Planning Hair Transplant Surgery, Dermatologist Weighs In

Hair loss is a common concern for many and it can have a significant effect on one’s confidence and self-esteem. While thinning and loss of hair are normal parts of ageing, they can also result from certain medical conditions. Some people who experience hair loss can opt for a hair transplant for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. Thanks to the current advances in technology, hair transplant surgery can give you a permanent solution to your hair loss with natural-looking results. Dr Monica Chahar, Chief Dermatologist and Director - Skin Decor, Dwarka, New Delhi, explains things that you should keep in mind before going for a hair transplant surgery.

What Is Hair Transplant Surgery

Hair transplant surgery aims to restore hair follicles in areas of the scalp with limited or no growth. However, like any surgical procedure, it has both benefits and certain side effects that should be considered.

Hair transplant surgery involves taking hair follicles from a donor area on the scalp and transplanting them into the bald areas of the scalp. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction are the two primary kinds of hair transplant procedures.

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In FUT, a strip of scalp is removed from the donor area and dissected into individual hair follicles, which are then transplanted into the recipient area. In FUE, individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area and transplanted directly into the recipient area.

Pros of Hair Transplantation

One of the main benefits of hair transplant surgery is that it provides a permanent solution to hair loss. Unlike other treatments such as hair growth medications or hairpieces, hair transplant surgery does not require ongoing maintenance or replacements. Once the transplanted hair follicles have been successfully integrated into the scalp, they will continue to grow naturally, just like the surrounding hair.

Another benefit is that it can provide a natural-looking result. Skilled surgeons can transplant hair follicles in a way that mimics the natural growth pattern of the hair on the scalp. This means that the transplanted hair will blend seamlessly with the existing hair and look natural.

Cons of Hair Transplantation

However, hair transplant surgery does have some potential side effects that individuals should be aware of. One common side effect is swelling and bruising of the scalp, which typically resolves within a few days. Another potential side effect is an infection, although this is rare when the surgery is performed in a sterile environment by a skilled surgeon. In some cases, individuals may experience shock loss, which is a temporary loss of hair in the recipient area. This can occur due to trauma to the scalp during surgery or due to the hair follicles being in a resting phase during the transplant process. However, this hair loss is typically temporary and will regrow over time.

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Hair transplant surgery is not suitable for everyone. Individuals who have a significant amount of hair loss may not have enough donor hair to achieve a satisfactory result. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions such as blood clotting disorders may not be able to undergo surgery safely.

Takeaway

Overall, hair transplant surgery can be an effective solution for individuals with hair loss. It provides a permanent and natural-looking result that can boost confidence and self-esteem. However, it is important to consider the potential side effects and to consult with a skilled surgeon to determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you. If you are considering hair transplant surgery, it is important to choose a reputable surgeon with experience to perform the procedure. Additionally, be prepared to discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking with your surgeon to ensure that the surgery is safe for you.

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