Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness (MPB), accounts for over 95% of hair loss in men. By age 35, approximately two-thirds of Caucasian men will notice some degree of hair loss, and by age 50, 85% will experience significant thinning. Around 25% of men with this condition begin losing hair before the age of 21.
Hair Transplant
For many men affected by male pattern baldness, the condition negatively impacts self-esteem, confidence, and quality of life. It can influence self-perception and relationships. For those struggling with this issue, regaining a full head of hair can significantly improve personal satisfaction and social interactions. If you’re considering how hair transplant surgery can help, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
Hair Transplantation: The Procedure
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves transferring healthy hair follicles from a donor area (typically the back or sides of the scalp) to areas affected by balding. The follicles are genetically resistant to balding, meaning they will continue to produce hair in their new location.
There are two primary techniques for hair transplantation:
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): This older method involves removing a strip of tissue from the donor area, which is then divided into individual follicular units and transplanted into tiny incisions in the balding area. The procedure leaves a linear scar in the donor area.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): FUE, the method we use, involves extracting individual follicular units from the donor area using a specialised tool. These units are then transplanted into the balding areas. Unlike FUT, FUE does not leave a linear scar and typically results in faster recovery.
Advantages of FUE Over FUT
No Linear Scar
FUE avoids the visible linear scar associated with FUT, making it ideal for patients who prefer shorter hairstyles.
Faster Recovery
Recovery from FUE is generally quicker compared to FUT.
Reduced Pain
Many patients report less postoperative pain following FUE compared to FUT.
Flexibility
FUE allows hair follicles to be harvested from areas beyond the scalp, such as the beard or chest, which is not possible with FUT.
Risks and Side Effects of FUE
While FUE is a safe procedure when performed by a skilled surgeon, it carries some risks. Overharvesting the donor area or extracting follicles outside of the Safe Donor Area (SDA) can impact the results. Minor side effects include:
- Scalp Cysts: Small, harmless cysts may develop in the donor area.
- Mild Infections: Although rare, infections can occur but are typically treatable.
- Temporary Hair Shedding: Patients may experience telogen effluvium (temporary hair shedding), which usually resolves in a few months.
Choosing an experienced, qualified doctor-led hair transplant team can minimize these risks and ensure a successful outcome.
Ideal Candidates for FUE
The best candidates for FUE are those whose hair loss has stabilized, typically with the use of treatments like finasteride or minoxidil. Younger patients, especially those in their 20s, may not be ideal candidates due to the risk of ongoing hair loss in the future. Other factors that contribute to successful results include having a strong donor area and realistic expectations for the procedure’s outcome.
Certain hair characteristics, such as thick, wavy hair or low contrast between hair and scalp color, tend to produce denser, more natural-looking results.
Steps in the FUE Procedure
While the exact steps of FUE may vary slightly depending on the surgeon, the general procedure includes:
| Step 1 | Consultation and Planning: The surgeon discusses the patient’s goals and outlines the donor and recipient areas. |
| Step 2 | Anesthesia: The scalp is numbed using local anesthesia, and sedation may be offered for added comfort. |
| Step 3 | Harvesting Grafts: Follicular units are carefully extracted from the donor area. |
| Step 4 | Recipient Site Preparation: Small incisions are made in the recipient area to receive the transplanted follicles. |
| Step 5 | Graft Placement: The harvested follicles are placed in the prepared recipient sites, ensuring natural direction and angle for the hair growth. |
FUE Recovery
Recovery from FUE is typically quicker and less uncomfortable than FUT. Small scabs form at the donor and recipient sites, typically healing within one to two weeks. Afterward, the transplanted hair may shed, but the roots remain intact, and new hair growth begins within a few months. Full results can take up to a year or more to fully appear.
Postoperative care varies by surgeon, but following instructions is crucial for optimal recovery. This may include using specific bandages, avoiding strenuous activities, and limiting water exposure.
FUE Costs
The cost of FUE varies depending on the estimated number of grafts needed. A consultation with a hair transplant doctor will provide a more accurate estimate of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is FUE hair transplant permanent?
Yes, FUE transplants are permanent. As long as the follicles are harvested from areas that are genetically resistant to balding, they should continue to grow for many years.
What is the failure rate of FUE?
With an experienced doctor-led hair transplant team and proper technique, the failure rate is very low. However, using unlicensed providers can significantly increase the risk of failure.
Does FUE look natural?
When performed by an experienced doctor-led hair transplant team, FUE provides natural-looking results. The natural appearance depends on proper hairline design, careful placement of grafts, and alignment with the patient’s natural hair growth pattern.
Do I have to shave my head for FUE?
In most cases, yes. A shaved donor area is standard, but some doctors may offer non-shaved FUE, though this requires more time and labor.
Is FUT cheaper than FUE?
Typically, FUT is less expensive than FUE due to the reduced labor involved. However, patients should be cautious of low-cost options that may involve unlicensed or inexperienced practitioners.
Does the donor area for FUE grow back?
Once hair follicles are removed during FUE, they do not grow back. This is why careful planning of the donor area is crucial to ensure enough hair remains for future procedures if needed.
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