Once upon a time, hair transplants were one of Hollywood’s best-kept secrets. A-listers can have receding hairlines one moment and a full head of hair the next. Thankfully, celebrities such as John Travolta, Wayne Rooney, and Elon Musk have been candid about their hair transplant journeys, a reminder that they, too, are humans. And just like botox and cell phones, hair transplants are no longer exclusive.
As accessible as they are, not all hair transplant methods are created equal. At Trichogenics, we perform follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplants, the preferred method for patients and specialists. Our doctors are highly trained and experienced, so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. This article discusses FUE as the best hair transplant method this year and into 2023.
What is Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)?
This is how hair follicles are extracted from the back of your scalp and implanted at the front and sides of your head. The hair in the new area will appear thicker as a result.
The "classic" follicular unit transplantation (FUT) technique was to be replaced by FUE. This procedure involved taking an entire piece of skin or scalp, including the follicles, and transplanting the skin to the target area.
FUE has gained popularity over FUT because it is less likely to result in serious medical complications and doesn't result in a large linear scar on the back.
How Does the FUE Hair Transplant Work?
The three-phase cycle of hair growth and regrowth shortens as you age until follicles no longer regrow hairs. This process is unique to each individual. Some people begin to go bald in their twenties, while others become bald years later.
FUE hair transplants restore hair by replacing old follicles with new follicles capable of producing hair. It is performed as an outpatient procedure. Here’s how it works:
Your surgeon will shave the hair where the follicles will be removed and the area around the transplant.
They will remove follicles from your skin with a micro punch tool.
Your surgeon will insert the extracted follicles through a series of tiny incisions made with a needle or other small, sharp tool like a sapphire blade or Choi pen.
The follicles will be inserted into the incisions.
For recovery, your surgeon cleans and bandages the affected area.
After the transplant, the blood vessels will feed the follicles, and hair will start to grow where there is thin hair or balding.
What are the Side Effects or Risks?
Aside from tiny white dots where follicles were removed, there will be very few visible scars from an FUE hair transplant. These might also fade with time.
Consult your doctor if you experience any of the following unusual side effects:
An infection
Drainage or crust where surgery was performed
Pain or swelling near the surgical site
Hair follicle swelling (folliculitis)
Bruising at the surgical site
Tingling or numbness near the surgical site
Hair transplanted that does not match the hair around it
Even after the transplant, the balding or thinning continues
What Should You Expect After Your FUE Hair Transplant?
The recovery period is short; you may experience swelling or discomfort for three days.
As you heal, you may need to follow these aftercare instructions:
For the first 2 days, refrain from wetting your scalp when in the shower.
Once you begin washing your hair, use gentle, unscented shampoos for a few weeks.
Take a couple of days off work to help the healing process.
Wait to comb or brush your new hair for at least three weeks.
Unless your doctor tells you to, you shouldn't wear hats, beanies, or other head coverings.
For at least 2 weeks, refrain from any strenuous physical activity.
During the healing process, some hairs may fall out. This is typical. After 3 to 4 months, you should notice the hair starting to come through.
Depending on the health of your transplanted hair, your general health, and outside factors like smoking, your hair may not grow back as thick as you had hoped.
Your doctor will address all these issues with you during your initial consultation.
How to Prepare for an FUE Hair Transplant?
Before getting an FUE hair transplant, you should consider the following:
For at least a day before your surgery, refrain from smoking.
Do not consume alcohol for at least three days before your surgery.
Take no aspirin or blood thinners for at least two weeks before your surgery.
Take no vitamins or dietary supplements for at least two weeks before your surgery.
Before the surgery, avoid having your hair cut.
Avoid PRP or micro-needling at least 2 weeks before surgery
For a few weeks, massage your scalp for 10 to 30 minutes every day to increase blood flow to your scalp.
Take any medications prescribed by your surgeon, such as minoxidil (Rogaine).
Stop Minoxidil (Rogaine) 2 weeks before surgery.
Before you begin, have an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests performed. (This is usually also done at the clinic
FUE Hair Transplant in Istanbul, Turkey
Are you considering a hair transplant? Talk to the specialists at Trichogenics! Our hair transplant surgeons have all the tools they need to help you get a full head of hair that looks natural. Schedule a consultation today!