Whether you are in the beginning or late stages of hair loss, both can greatly impact one’s self esteem. Men and women commonly suffer from hair loss and in some cases the hair loss can be resolved early if it’s due to things like hormones, poor nutrition, or a medical condition. However, in most cases hair loss is caused by genetics and in this case it will only progress if not treated.
Am I a candidate for Hair Transplant Surgery?
During a hair restoration consultation, the patient’s health and hair loss history are first reviewed. This is important because hair loss can be caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. The length of time hair loss has been happening as well as the age of the patient is considered. Hair transplant surgery is not recommended for those under the age of 30 as the pattern of hair loss is still undetermined. After several years of hair loss, the individual typically has a clear “hair loss pattern”.
With male pattern baldness, men typically begin with hair loss to the temples, a receding hairline and/or thinning to the crown. Women suffering from female pattern baldness, typically begin to notice their part thinning and gradually becoming wider.
Hair Transplant Options
At UFP we offer two different hair transplant options, FUT (follicular unit transplant) and FUE (follicular unit extraction). Both are safe and effective methods that are great hair restoration options for both men and women. When deciding which surgery is right for the person, several factors are discussed between the patient and surgeon to determine the best method.
Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT)
The FUT method is more commonly known as the “strip method” because it involves removing a strip of hair from the patient’s scalp. Once this strip of the scalp is obtained, the scalp is carefully closed resulting in minimum scarring. The grafts (hair follicles) are prepared and cleaned before they are precisely placed into their newly transplanted area. This process is repeated with each individual graft until the area(s) discussed is completed. The number of grafts varies per individual and depending on the severity of hair loss, another transplant may be suggested.
Advantages of FUT:
- Healthy tissue to maximize follicular unit growth
- Completely natural results
- Sometimes more cost effective than FUE
- Safe and effective
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
Our surgeons use NeoGraft, an FDA-approved follicular unit harvesting and implantation system. NeoGraft delivers automation of the FUE technique, which means it can extract and implant the follicles. Unlike the strip method, there is no cutting involved with this procedure which makes it so popular. Instead of a linear scar, this technique does leave patients with tiny 1 millimeter punch marks on the back of the scalp where the grafts are obtained. These tiny marks are usually only visible when the head is completely shaved.
Advantages of FUE
- No linear scar
- No Sutures
- Quick recovery
- Minimal downtime
- Ideal for those with short hair or who have had a previous transplant
How Soon Will I See Results from Hair Transplant Surgery?
Following hair transplant surgery, it is likely for patients to notice the newly transplanted grafts falling out, this is normal. We call this the shedding process. After approximately three to four months following the shedding process, new hair growth can be expected. Full results following hair transplant surgery can be expected to be apparent around the 10-12 month mark.
To learn more about hair restoration with our expert hair restoration surgeons, please contact our Draper or Layton, Utah office at (801)776-222 or contact us HERE.