Hair transplants have existed since the mid-20th century and have gained prominence in the 21st century as more and more people turn to them to solve their hair loss problems. One of the best things about hair transplants is that they’re minimally invasive; the top hair transplant surgeon UK will move hair from one part of your body, like your back or chest, and move it to the scalp where it’s needed.
Important things to know before getting a hair transplant:
1) What are the costs?
Hair transplants are not cheap. This price can increase depending on the number of grafts needed, the type of surgery performed, and other factors. The success rate of London hair transplant is quite high. In general, around 95% of patients are satisfied with the results of their surgery.
2) How does it work?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that removes hair follicles from one part of the body known as the “donor site,” and places them on a bald, or balding, part of the body known as the “recipient site.” This technique is used in male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness.
3) What to Expect Following Surgery
After your hair transplant surgery, you will likely experience some swelling and bruising around the donor and recipient sites. This swelling and brushing are normal and you can recover from it in a few days.
You may also experience some itching and discomfort as your scalp adjusts to its new follicles. Again, this is normal and can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication.
It is important to keep your head elevated for the first few days after surgery and to avoid strenuous activity. You will return to your work and daily routine in a week.
4) What about prescription drugs?
You should avoid blood thinners, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, for at least two weeks before and after your surgery. Because these things act as blood thinners and can increase the risk of bleeding. You should also avoid alcohol for at least a week before and after your surgery. Alcohol can also thin your blood and increase the risk of bleeding.
5) Who qualifies for surgery?
To be eligible for a hair transplant, you must have healthy hair follicles that can be transplanted from one area of the scalp to another. You must also have enough donor hair available.
The ideal candidate for a hair transplant is someone who is experiencing male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness. Those with scarring alopecia or alopecia areata may also be good candidates.
6) If you choose FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), will you lose all your hair?
A common misconception is that you will lose all your hair if you opt for FUE. This is not the case. You may experience some shedding in the days following the procedure, but this is temporary and should not last more than a week or two. The transplanted follicles will begin to grow new hair within a few months, and you should see significant results within 6-12 months.
7) Is there a need for multiple surgeries?
Depending on the amount of hair loss, you may need more than one surgery. If you have extensive hair loss, you may need two or three surgeries spaced about six months apart. In some cases, a fourth surgery may be needed.
8) How long until you see results?
Depending on the extent of your surgery, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the transplanted hair to begin growing. However, it can take up to a year to see the full results of your surgery.
In the meantime, you may experience some shedding, which is normal. Be patient and trust that your new hair will eventually come in!
9) Can you swim, shower, and exercise right after surgery?
You’ll want to avoid submerging your head in water for the first week after surgery. After that, you can gently wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
At least a week without any vigorous exercise or contact sports. And, it’s important to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights following surgery.