Hair Transplant

What is Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation is the process of transplanting healthy hair follicles taken from the nape of the neck, where there is no hair loss, to the hair loss or thinning areas of individuals experiencing hair loss. The purpose of hair transplantation is to regenerate hair in thinning or shed areas. Hair transplantation offers a natural and permanent solution.

Hair transplantation is an effective method for treating hair loss as well as thickening thinning areas. After the application, it is seen that the transplanted hair follicles grow healthily in the new area and provide a natural appearance.

Hair loss can also be defined as the hair's failure to renew itself. Normal hair loss is the loss of 80-100 hairs per day. Daily shedding exceeding this amount is not normal and needs to be treated. In cases where hair loss continues despite medical treatments, hair transplantation, which is a surgical method, can be performed.

Why is Hair Transplantation Performed?

Hair transplantation is generally performed to restore lost hair in a natural and permanent way for individuals experiencing hair loss or thinning. Hair loss can occur due to genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, stress, aging or various health problems and can negatively affect a person's self-confidence.

Hair transplantation aims to give the person a more youthful expression and a natural appearance by regrowing hair in areas where hair loss is intense or completely gone.

Reasons for hair transplantation can be listed as follows:

• Advanced hair loss
• Hair loss due to genetic factors
• Hair loss due to trauma or accident
• Hair loss caused by skin conditions such as alopecia areata
• Hair thinning due to hormonal changes
• The desire for a more youthful and fuller aesthetic appearance
• Loss of self-confidence due to baldness
• Negativities in social life due to hair loss
• Ineffectiveness of cosmetic products and the search for a permanent solution

Who is Suitable for Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation is suitable for people who are experiencing hair loss and have sufficient hair follicles in the donor area. It may be preferred in cases such as male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), hair loss due to burns or trauma, and ringworm.

Individuals who are in good general health, have chronic diseases under control, and have sufficient skin elasticity for hair transplantation can undergo this procedure. However, for those with advanced diabetes, blood clotting disorders, or active hair loss, a doctor's approval is required.

The criteria for a hair transplant are as follows:

• Adequate donor area: There must be a sufficient number of healthy hair follicles in the nape area or other parts of the body.
• Hair loss is complete or stabilized: Continuing hair loss may create an unbalanced appearance after transplantation.
• Good general health: People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease or blood clotting disorders should get a doctor's approval.
• No serious skin disease in the head area: Eczema, psoriasis or active infections may negatively affect the success of hair transplantation.
• Age factor: It is generally recommended for individuals aged 25 and over, because by this age the hair loss process is more clearly defined.
• Keeping smoking and alcohol consumption under control: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect the healing process.
• Appropriate hair type and quality. Thick and dense hair may yield better results after transplantation.

Hair transplantation is a suitable method for both men and women experiencing hair loss. While it is generally applied to men due to androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), it is preferred in women to thicken thinning hair or eliminate hair loss in certain areas. It can be applied to both genders in cases of burns, trauma, scars or ringworm.

However, the type of hair loss, hair density in the donor area and general health status are the determining factors in terms of suitability. Some hormonal diseases and chronic conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes, blood clotting disorder or active hair disease may pose an obstacle to hair transplantation.

How is a Hair Transplant Performed?

In practice, hair follicles taken from the donor area, usually the nape of the neck, are transplanted to the targeted area. These taken hair follicles are called grafts. In some cases, although rare, the healthy hair on the nape or temples may not be dense enough for the targeted area. In such cases, hair follicles can be taken from other areas of the person that contain hair, such as the arms, legs, or rib cage.

Hair transplantation consists of the following stages:

1. Assessment of the individual's hair loss status and donor area density,
2. Shaving the donor area and preparing it for the procedure with local anesthesia,
3. Extracting hair follicles (grafts) from the donor area with a special device,
4. Opening channels in the recipient area for the grafts,
5. Carefully placing the harvested hair follicles into the opened channels,
6. Applying a special bandage to the donor and transplanted areas at the end of the procedure,
7. The crust that forms in the first few days will fall off within approximately 10 days,
8. Hair growth begins within a few months, and the final results are seen within 6-12 months.

Hair transplantation takes place within a few hours, depending on the rate of hair loss and the amount of hair to be transplanted. In cases where the bald area is very large, more than one session may be required to complete the treatment.

Hair transplantation is usually performed under sedation and local anesthesia. After the procedure, the patient is applied a special bandage that protects the operation area and aims to promote healing. The patient is discharged after 1-2 hours of observation. Pain is a rare symptom during the hair transplantation process, but painkillers may be given in case of this.

After a short rest at home, the individual can continue his/her daily life by using a bandage to protect the transplanted area. The bandages are changed in the following days.

Hair transplantation is usually performed under local anesthesia. In some cases, sedation may also be used. Local anesthesia numbs the area being treated so that the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.

Sedation helps the patient relax and reduce anxiety levels. These anesthesia methods are generally safe and effective, but some patients may experience side effects such as mild dizziness, nausea, or temporary drowsiness.

What are the Hair Transplant Methods?

The most common hair transplantation methods are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation). In the FUE method, hair follicles are transplanted by taking them one by one, while in the FUT method, the follicles are transferred within a strip of tissue taken from the nape area.

In addition, the DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) method enables direct transplantation of hair follicles using special pens. Advanced techniques such as robotic hair transplantation and PRP-assisted hair transplantation can also increase the success of the transplantation process.

The methods used in hair transplantation are as follows:

• Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
• Direct Hair Transplantation (DHI)

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

In this method, scalp is taken from a healthy, unshed area on the back of the head and divided into clusters of 1, 2, 3, or 4, each containing hair and its follicles, under a microscope, without disturbing their natural structure. The transplanted hair is transplanted to the thinning or completely bald area.

The area on the nape where the hair is taken is stitched in accordance with plastic and reconstructive surgery methods. In this way, the stitch scar on the back is minimized and will only be visible when the hair is completely shaved off. The stitches are removed 12–15 days following the surgery.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

The follicular unit extraction (FUE) method involves extracting individual hair follicles from the nape of the neck or from specific areas of the body using special, fine-tipped needles and transplanting them to areas where hair is thinning or completely falling out. Since there are no stitches on the nape of the neck, there are no stitch marks.

There is no difference between FUT and FUE methods in terms of their results. If the hairline is prepared and directed correctly, the results of both methods look natural.

What are the differences between FUE and FUT methods?

There are some fundamental differences between FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) hair transplantation methods. In the FUE method, hair follicles are taken one by one from the donor area and transplanted to the target area. This method does not require stitches and therefore leaves no scars.

In the FUT method, a strip of scalp is taken from the donor area, this strip is divided into small grafts under a microscope and transplanted to the target area. In the FUT method, a thin line of stitches may remain in the donor area. In both methods, natural and satisfactory results can be achieved with proper planning and application.

Before and After Hair Transplantation

Before a hair transplant, the individual's hair loss pattern and donor area density are evaluated in detail. The patient's general health status is reviewed and a plan is created that meets their expectations. If necessary, additional tests are requested and the operation date is determined after chronic conditions are brought under control.

After hair transplantation, it is normal for a few days to experience mild edema (swelling) and tenderness, especially around the forehead or in the transplanted area. This is a natural part of the postoperative tissue response and usually resolves spontaneously within a short period of time. During this period, avoiding heavy physical activities and regularly using bandages and medications recommended by the doctor will have a positive effect on the healing process.

In addition, minimizing smoking and alcohol consumption, paying attention to a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids contributes to the healthy development of hair follicles. The crust that forms in the first weeks in the hair transplant area falls off over time, and the transplanted hair usually begins to grow again within 3-4 months.

After an average of 6-12 months, the results of hair transplantation become more visible. During this period, the patient is advised not to skip his/her check-ups or to inform his/her doctor.

Pre-Hair Transplant Planning

Before hair transplantation, general health status, hair loss pattern and donor area density are evaluated. During consultations with the doctor, the patient's expectations, hairline design, and transplantation technique are clarified. When deemed necessary, additional tests are requested to ensure a safer and more effective application.

Post-Hair Transplant Recovery and Lifestyle

Mild swelling and tenderness may occur after the procedure, but most patients return to their daily routine within a few days. Avoiding strenuous physical activity during the first week and changing bandages regularly will speed up healing. Additionally, a balanced diet and plenty of fluid consumption also contribute to the healthy growth of hair follicles.

It is recommended to avoid heavy exercise and protect the operation area from impacts for the first few weeks after the operation. Minimizing smoking and alcohol consumption and regularly using the care products recommended by the doctor will support the healing process. A balanced diet, consuming plenty of water and avoiding stress also encourages the healthy development of hair follicles.

Supportive Methods

Additional treatments such as PRP and mesotherapy can increase the success of hair transplant results. These methods accelerate healing by improving blood circulation in the scalp and nutrition of the roots. These treatments, which can be applied before or after the operation, help the transplanted hair to be stronger and more permanent.

Temporary Hair Loss After Hair Transplantation

It is an expected and natural process for some of the transplanted hair to fall out a few weeks after the hair transplant procedure. At this stage, the roots release their excess weight as they try to adapt to their new location and begin to grow again within an average of 3-4 months. While the healthy nourished follicles maintain their permanence in the subsequent period, a new transplant plan may be required in the future, depending on the ongoing rate of shedding of the original hair.

Hair Transplantation for Women

Although hair transplantation methods for women are similar to those for men, the planning process is more meticulous because the hair loss pattern is more scattered. During the selection of the donor area and the determination of the transplantation areas, care is taken to preserve the natural hairline and hair density. Thus, a more aesthetic appearance and satisfactory results can be achieved.

What are the risks of hair transplantation?

Although hair transplantation is a surgical procedure, it is generally considered safe; However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and side effects that may occur. These risks may vary depending on the hygiene conditions of the clinic where the procedure is performed, the experience of the doctor, the health status of the patient, and whether post-hair transplant care is followed carefully.

Below are common risks that may be encountered during or after hair transplantation:

• Infection: Bacterial problems may occur as a result of not paying enough attention to the hygiene of the operation area or neglecting the necessary care.
• Bleeding and edema (swelling): Mild bleeding may occur in the transplanted or donor area; Edema usually occurs around the forehead and disappears on its own within a few days.
• Scar: While the likelihood of a noticeable scar is low in the FUE method, a thin scar may remain in the nape area in the FUT technique. However, experienced surgeons make a significant contribution to minimizing scars.
• Unnatural hairline: An artificial appearance may occur as a result of inadequate transplantation planning or the roots being planted in an improper direction.
• Insensitivity or numbness: Temporary numbness may be experienced due to the nerve endings being affected, especially in the transplanted or donor area.
• Ongoing hair loss (Shock Loss): Weak roots in and around the transplantation area may fall out temporarily; This usually resolves with new hair growth.
• Rare complications: Problems such as allergic reactions, severe pain, or recovery that takes longer than expected are rare but possible.

Many of these risks can be significantly reduced with the procedure performed by an experienced physician, appropriate operating room conditions, and meticulous postoperative care.

Hair Transplant Prices

To determine hair transplant prices, your skin type, hair type, the technique to be used, and the size of the transplant area must be evaluated. When choosing a hair transplant center, the experience of the doctor who will perform the procedure and the equipment of the center are very important to get the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Transplantation

How is a hair transplant performed?

Hair transplantation is a natural and permanent type of surgical procedure in which hair taken from existing hair follicles is transplanted to fill an area where there is sparse or no hair. Although it is a surgical procedure, the person who has had the transplant can return to his/her normal life in a short time.

How long does the hair transplantation procedure take?

The procedure takes approximately 4-6 hours, depending on the size of the area to be transplanted, the skin and hair structure, and the technique to be applied.

Will I feel any pain during hair transplantation?

Hair transplantation is a procedure that is performed under local anesthesia and does not cause any pain or discomfort.

Will the transplanted hairs grow?

Yes, they will. The preparation of the grafts (hair clusters), the conditions in which they are stored, and the application of the correct technique are all factors that directly affect the outcome, and if they are followed, the result is 100% successful.

When can I go out after hair transplantation?

There is nothing that would prevent you from going out after the operation. Tiny pink dots will be visible for the first 2-3 days, and they will gradually fade, returning to normal within a week and not posing a problem that will prevent you from going out.

When will the transplanted hair grow?

Three months after the operation, the hair begins to appear small and reaches its normal length within approximately six months.

Will the transplanted hair fall out in the future?

No, they will not. Because the transplanted hair is taken from the area that is coded not to fall out, and it continues this feature in the newly transplanted area.

Will it be obvious that I had a hair transplant?

Hair transplanted naturally with the appropriate technique will never be noticeable. Therefore, it's crucial for the team performing the procedure to be experienced. Because the type of transplantation to be applied varies depending on the person's skin and hair structure and the area to be transplanted, each should be evaluated individually.

Who performs the hair transplant?

Hair transplantation is performed by experts with many years of experience under the management of plastic surgeons.

How much does hair growth procedure cost?

The price of hair growth varies depending on the method used, the number of sessions, the technology used and the clinic where the procedure is performed.

How are hair transplant prices determined?

Hair transplant prices vary depending on the number of grafts and the method. Prices vary greatly, especially in metropolitan cities, as there are many options, but it is recommended to choose the most experienced and well-equipped centers.