Debunking Hair Transplant Myths. See What Experts Say

Hair transplant procedures have gained popularity as an effective solution for restoring hair and regaining confidence. In this article, there are myths addressed by experts related to hair transplant.

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New Delhi: Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide and can have a significant impact on self-esteem and overall well-being. Hair transplant procedures have gained popularity as an effective solution for restoring hair and regaining confidence. However, along with the growing interest in hair transplants, several myths and misconceptions have emerged. But, before that, let us know what is hair transplant all about.

What Is Hair Transplant?

It is a type of surgery that transfers existing hair to fill in areas with thin or no hair. Doctors have been performing these transplants in the United States since the 1950s, although procedures have evolved significantly in recent years.

First, the surgeon cleans your scalp and injects medication into the back of your skull to numb it. Your doctor will select either follicular unit strip surgery (FUSS) or follicular unit extraction (FUE) for the transplant.

The surgeon uses FUSS to remove a 6- to 10-inch strip of skin from the back of your skull. They put it away and sew the scalp shut. This place is quickly concealed by the hair that surrounds it.

The surgeon's team then splits the severed scalp strip into 500 to 2,000 microscopic grafts, each containing an individual hair or just a few hairs. The amount and type of grafts you receive are determined by your hair type, quality, colour, and the size of the area where the transplant is being performed.

On the other hand, for the FUE surgery, the surgeon's staff will shave the back of your scalp and then the doctor will remove hair follicles one by one from there. The region heals with little spots, which your existing hair will hide. After that, both methods are the same.

In this regard, ABP Live sought the opinions of experts in this field who debunked certain myths prevailing to hair transplant.

MYTH 1: HAIR TRANSPLANTS ARE ONLY FOR MEN:

Although hair loss is often associated with men, women can also experience thinning hair or baldness. Hair transplants are a viable option for both men and women.

Dr. Monica Kapoor, Celebrity cosmetologist and Director of Flawless Cosmetic Clinic & ILACAD Institute said, "The techniques used in hair transplant procedures can be adapted to suit the specific needs and patterns of hair loss in both genders. Women with hair loss concerns can consult with a qualified hair restoration specialist to determine the best course of action."

Exlaining the reasons due to which women too can experience hair thinning and patterned baldness, Dr. Nivedita Dadu who is a Dermatologist and the Founder and Chairman of Dadu Medical Centre told that this can be due to hormonal imbalances, genetics, or other factors. While the underlying causes may differ, the surgical techniques used in hair transplantation can effectively address these issues in women as well.

MYTH 2: HAIR TRANSPLANTS LOOK UNNATURAL:

Hair after transplant gives natural-looking and permanent results in today's cosmetology industry, thanks to advancements in the procedure of hair transplantation and the application of cutting-edge technology. Simply moving the grafts from the donor area to the recipient area will not result in a successful hair transplant. A successful hair transplant is one in which no one notices that you have had one.

"The notion that hair transplants result in an unnatural appearance is outdated. With advancements in technology and surgical techniques, modern hair transplants produce natural-looking results. Skilled plastic surgeons use methods like follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit transplantation (FUT) to ensure the transplanted hair blends seamlessly with the existing hair. The direction, angle, and density of transplanted follicles are meticulously planned to create a natural hairline," said Dr Ridima Sachdeva, Consultant Plastic, Cosmetic, Reconstructive Hand & Brachial Plexus Surgeon, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai

MYTH 3: HAIR TRANSPLANT IS A PAINFUL AND RISKY PROCEDURE

Hair transplant surgery in and of itself is low risk, relatively safe, and has a low frequency of problems. However, it is widely acknowledged that no medical science technique is without the possibility of problems. Because the surgery is typically conducted under local anaesthesia, most people do not feel anything during the process. However, if the anaesthesia begins to wear off in the middle of the surgery, it can be extremely uncomfortable. Local anaesthesia is administered by injecting an anaesthetic solution into the scalp to numb it. This can involve quite a few injections and can be a bit painful.

In this regard, Dr. Nivedita Dadu said, "While some patients may experience mild soreness and tenderness in the recipient and donor areas after the procedure, any post-operative discomfort can be effectively managed with prescribed medications. Most individuals report that the mild discomfort is easily manageable and subsides within a few days."

MYTH 4: HAIR TRANSPLANTS REQUIRE LENGTHY RECOVERY PERIODS

Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but most people can resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.

Talking about this, Dr. Ridhima said, "While it is true that hair transplant recovery takes time, the notion of lengthy recovery periods is exaggerated. Most patients can resume their regular activities within a few days following the procedure. It is essential to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon, which may include avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the scalp from direct sun exposure. The transplanted hair will gradually grow and blend with the existing hairline, achieving the final result over several months."

MYTH 5: HAIR TRANSPLANTS ARE NOT PERMANENT:

In this regard, Dr Monica said, "Hair transplants utilize the patient's own hair follicles, which are genetically resistant to balding, from the donor area to the recipient area. These transplanted hairs retain their original characteristics, including resistance to hair loss. Therefore, the transplanted hair is permanent and continues to grow naturally throughout the patient's lifetime. It is worth noting that existing hair surrounding the transplant area may still be subject to further hair loss, and additional procedures may be required to address future hair loss patterns."

Thus, hair transplants can help with a variety of hair loss phases. A trained plastic surgeon can analyse your situation and offer the best treatment option, whether you have minor hair thinning or extensive hair loss. Early intervention with hair transplant operations, on the other hand, can prevent additional hair loss and produce a more natural-looking result.