Women also experience hair and scalp problems, just like men. Hair issues can arise from various causes, including hormonal changes after childbirth or menopause, nutrient deficiencies like protein and vitamin B, stress, or the use of chemical hair products. Fortunately, there are treatments available, such as medication, hair treatments, or even female hair transplants. This article will explore these solutions and discuss how female hair transplants work and their associated costs.
What is a Female Hair Transplant?
A female hair transplant is a procedure aimed at treating hair loss, thinning hair, baldness, or covering scars on a woman’s scalp. It involves moving hair follicles from the back of the head (Donor Area) to the desired area.
What types of hair problems are suitable/unsuitable for female hair transplants?
For women with hair loss or thinning, suitability for a hair transplant depends on the specific issue:
1. Thinning Hair Across the Entire Scalp
Hair transplants may not be an option because women typically don’t have a permanent hair zone like men. In such cases, other treatments like the following are recommended:
• Medication
Common medications include Minoxidil and Finasteride, available in oral or topical forms. Consistent use is crucial, and results typically appear after 3–6 months. However, these medications can have serious side effects, especially during pregnancy, so it’s essential to consult a specialist before using them.
• PRP Treatments
This treatment involves drawing the patient’s blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting the plasma into the thinning areas. Monthly treatments are recommended for the first three months, followed by sessions every 3–6 months. Results are noticeable after six months.
2. Receding Hairline or High Forehead
Women with a receding hairline or high forehead can benefit from hair transplants. This procedure helps enhance confidence, soften facial features, and create a fuller, more natural hairline.
3. Thinning Hair at the Center Part
Thinning at the part line is often caused by genetics, hormonal imbalance, stress, or unsuitable hair care products. This condition can worsen after menopause as estrogen levels decline. Hair transplants in the center of the scalp can reduce the appearance of thinning.
Types of Female Hair Transplants
At Hairsmith Clinic, we offer two methods as recommended by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS):
• FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
This is an older method where a strip of scalp is surgically removed from the back of the head, and individual hair follicles are transplanted to the desired area. It leaves a long scar that requires longer hair to conceal.
• FUE (Follicular Unit Excision)
In this more modern technique, individual follicles are extracted using a small punch tool and then transplanted. FUE is less painful, and the recovery time is shorter compared to FUT.
Both methods at Hairsmith Clinic use the Implanter Pen to minimize damage to the hair follicles and increase the survival rate of the transplanted hair.
Preparation Before a Hair Transplant
Hair transplants are minor surgeries, so preparation is simple:
- Stop medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin and fish oil, two weeks before surgery.
- Get enough rest and eat breakfast on the day of the procedure.
- Wear a button-down shirt to avoid disturbing the transplant area.
Post-Transplant Care
First Two Weeks:
Avoid touching the transplant area, refrain from exercise that may cause contact with the scalp, and use gentle shampoo.
After Two Weeks:
Avoid swimming and saunas for one month, and regular activities can resume. Hair treatments like coloring should wait two months.
Does a Female Hair Transplant Hurt?
The only pain experienced is during the local anesthesia injection. After the anesthetic takes effect, the procedure is pain-free, and pain medication is provided for post-surgery discomfort.
Who is Suitable for Female Hair Transplants?
- Women with a receding hairline or high forehead.
- Those with genetic thinning at the part line but still have thick hair at the back of their head.
- Women seeking to cover scars or improve their facial proportions for confidence.
How Much Does a Female Hair Transplant Cost?
At Hairsmith Clinic, the cost is 75 baht per graft (2024 pricing), with a minimum of 1,000 grafts. If fewer grafts are required, the price is 90 baht per graft, with a minimum cost of 49,000 baht.
Female Hair Transplant Reviews
When looking at hair transplant reviews, it’s important to evaluate results after 6-12 months. This is the period when over 50% of the transplanted hair starts to grow. Immediate post-surgery photos won’t give a clear indication of how well the hair will grow over time.
FAQs about Female Hair Transplants
How is a female hair transplant different from a male hair transplant?
The design of a woman’s hairline requires just as much precision as a man’s, but with a softer, more feminine contour. When performing a female hair transplant, doctors usually create a curved hairline that complements the face, avoiding a harsh appearance. The front-most line often consists of single-hair grafts, known as “ONE-HAIR GRAFT,” to create a natural-looking hairline. The thickness is then gradually increased to ensure the transplanted hair looks as natural as possible. Patients can also bring in examples of the hairline they desire to discuss with the doctor and ensure the final result matches their preferences.
Are there any side effects of female hair transplants?
There are typically very mild side effects, and they are usually not concerning. Common ones include swelling, mild pain, redness, temporary hair loss (also known as shock loss), or changes in hair color. However, these side effects are temporary and generally resolve on their own over time.
Where is the best place to get a female hair transplant?
If you’re looking for a clinic that specializes in female hair transplants, Hairsmith Clinic is an excellent option. We have experienced specialists who have successfully performed over 3,000 procedures. Our expertise is internationally recognized by the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS) since 2014, which is the only globally recognized certification for hair transplant surgery. We use the Implanter Pen technique instead of traditional methods, minimizing the risk of damage to hair follicles. We also use the Hybrid punch system from the WAW FUE SYSTEM, designed by Dr. Jean Devroye, considered one of the best FUE punch systems in the world today. This, combined with our skill in designing natural hairlines, ensures top-notch results.
Summary
A female hair transplant involves moving hair from the back of the head to areas with thinning or baldness. It’s ideal for women with receding hairlines, high foreheads, or those needing to cover scars. Women’s hair transplants help enhance confidence by improving appearance.