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Hair loss can be a headache to deal with and a migraine to understand. Are you balding, thinning, or just losing your mind? You’re certainly not alone. According to a 2017 study published in the National Institutes of Health, about 60% of men and 50% of women globally are familiar with the challenges of hair loss.
Some people try to remedy the problem with topical treatments and medications but seldom do they see any major results. Hair transplants are an increasingly popular solution that has become more advanced in recent years. If you’re looking to get one done, the following questions and answers can help you get a better idea of what to expect.
Is a Hair Transplant Effective?
As the name suggests, a hair transplant involves taking hair from one area and moving it to another. This means that it’s less suitable for people with widespread baldness, thick scars, and hair loss due to medications. However, a specialist might be able to identify a solution depending on your circumstances.
A 2016 study estimated that within three to four months, up to 80% of the transplanted hair will grow back. Another study focusing on plasma therapy found that over 75% of transplanted hairs fully return. To sum it up, hair transplants aren’t a guaranteed fix for everyone, but they’re easily the most effective solution available.
How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost?
Hair transplant can cost anywhere from £3,000 to £15,000 depending on different factors. This includes the complexity and extent of the procedure, as well as the chosen technique. The availability of nearby surgeons and their experience can also influence the cost. Most clinics provide financing options to lower the upfront cost.
How do Hair Transplants Work?
In most cases, the transplanted hair will be taken from the back of your head, but it can come from other parts of your body. Before the procedure begins, the surgeon sterilises and numbs the areas that they’ll be working on. Patients can also request sedation to sleep through the procedure.
There are two transplant methods: FUT and FUE. The former is known as a follicular unit transplantation, which involves removing a piece of your scalp before stitching it back together. The piece is then cut into tiny fragments called grafts. Puncture holes are made in the area that gets treated and said grafts are inserted.
Follicular unit extraction (FUE) involves shaving your hair off before removing individual follicles. Then the procedure continues in a similar fashion to a FUT, whereby the surgeon makes small holes and inserts the new follicles. Hair transplant procedures can take a few hours or a few days to fully complete.
What Happens After the Hair Transplant is Complete?
You’ll likely feel some mild soreness. Pain medications are typically prescribed, as well as an antibiotic. Within three days, you can return to work and normal activities as usual, although it’s recommended you avoid exercise for a week.
If you’re looking to give your hair a new lease of life, getting a transplant is worth consideration. Be sure to find a reputable clinic with qualified surgeons for the procedure.