Hair Transplantation

Hair transplantation is an increasingly popular solution for treating hair loss and baldness. Today, there are two main methods used for permanent hair restoration, each with its own advantages and limitations. This article will guide you through the various hair transplant techniques, the step-by-step procedure, preparation before undergoing treatment, and the overall costs associated with the procedure. Let’s dive in.

What is Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation, also known as permanent hair restoration or hair transplant surgery, involves moving hair follicles from the back and sides of the scalp (known as the donor area) to areas where hair is thinning or bald, such as the front hairline or the crown. Within 6-12 months, the transplanted hair will grow naturally and will not fall out again.

The reason why hair from the donor area is used is that this hair is permanent and resistant to DHT, the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness and thinning hair.

Causes of Hair Loss, Thinning Hair, and Baldness

The main causes of hair loss and thinning hair include:

• Genetics: A major factor that makes some people more prone to hair loss than others.
• Hormones: Hormonal changes in the body, such as fluctuations in testosterone or estrogen, can contribute to hair shedding.
• Stress: Chronic stress negatively affects overall health, including the health of your hair.
• Diseases: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, liver diseases, and some skin conditions, can also lead to hair loss.

Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for a Hair Transplant

• Hair Loss: A condition where more hair falls out than normal, typically over 100 strands per day, or more than 200 strands on days you don’t wash your hair.
• Thinning Hair: Hair becomes noticeably less dense, making the scalp clearly visible.
• Baldness: Severe and progressive hair loss that leads to distinct bald patches on the scalp.

Types of Hair Transplantation

According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), there are two main techniques for hair transplantation, differentiated by how the hair is harvested from the donor area:

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)

FUT involves removing a strip of scalp with hair, which is then separated into individual grafts before being transplanted into the target area. The advantage of this method is that a large number of grafts can be transplanted in one session. However, it may leave a noticeable scar in the area where the scalp was removed.

FUE (Follicular Unit Excision)

FUE, on the other hand, does not require removing a strip of scalp. Instead, individual hair follicles are extracted and then transplanted into the desired area. This method results in minimal scarring and quicker recovery, but it can take longer and may yield fewer grafts in a single session.

Learn more: What is FUE Hair Transplant?

Additionally, at Hairsmith Clinic, we offer a non-shaven FUE method, which does not require shaving the donor area, making it ideal for those concerned about maintaining their hairstyle after the procedure.

Preparing for a Hair Transplant

Since hair transplantation is a minor surgical procedure, the preparation is fairly simple:

• Inform your doctor of any ongoing medical conditions or regular medications.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications or supplements for at least two weeks before surgery, such as aspirin, minoxidil, fish oil, or vitamin E.
• Get adequate rest.
• No need to fast before the procedure.
• It’s recommended to wear a dark, button-up shirt for easy dressing post-procedure.

Post-Hair Transplant Care

• Avoid washing your hair within the first 24 hours.
• On the second day, return to the clinic to have your hair washed and wounds checked.
• Avoid picking at scabs; they will naturally fall off after 15 days.
• Refrain from strenuous activities for two weeks, though light exercise like walking is allowed. Full exercise can resume after two weeks, except for swimming and saunas, which require a 30-day wait.
• Hair treatments like dyeing or straightening can be done after two months.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure for three months, and wear a hat if outside for more than 10 minutes.

You can wash your hair daily according to clinic instructions, and after two weeks, resume your normal hair care routine.

Recovery After Hair Transplant

Recovery Time

Recovery from a hair transplant is relatively short. For FUE, the small wounds (less than 1mm) will heal within three days, and most patients can return to work the next day. For FUT, stitches are removed after 10 days.

Potential Side Effects

Hair transplantation generally has minor side effects, such as swelling, slight pain, redness, or temporary hair loss (shock loss). These are typically temporary and will resolve over time. Choosing a reputable clinic minimizes the risk of complications, whereas an inexperienced provider could lead to serious issues, such as severe infections.

How Long Until Results Are Visible?

• After 2 weeks: Scabs will have fallen off, and the follicles are securely in place.
• After 3 months: Thin, fine hair begins to grow, about 10-15% of the final result.
• After 6 months: Hair becomes thicker, and you can see about 40-50% of the final result.
• After 12-18 months: The full result is visible, with a natural, thick hairline.

The hair transplant results at Hairsmith Clinic are top-tier in terms of naturalness. The hairline is designed by expert doctors to closely match the natural hairline, providing the most realistic and natural-looking outcome.

Cost of Hair Transplantation

Costs vary depending on the technique used and the number of grafts. At Hairsmith Clinic, prices start at 59,000 THB, with FUT and FUE procedures costing 80 THB per graft. The non-shaven FUE procedure costs 120 THB per graft. These prices are final with no additional fees.

Example: Hair Transplant Cost Table

Number of Grafts	Hair Transplant Cost (THB)
1,000	80,000
1,500	120,000
2,000	160,000
2,500	200,000
3,000	240,000
4,000	320,000

How to Choose the Right Hair Transplant Clinic?

When choosing a hair transplant clinic, it’s important to select one that meets high standards, where surgeries are performed by experienced doctors and offers consistent follow-up care. If you opt for a clinic without proper standards or skilled surgeons, there is a risk that the transplant may fail, and there may be serious complications, such as infections.

Hairsmith Clinic – A Specialized Hair Transplant Surgery Clinic

Hairsmith Clinic is dedicated exclusively to hair transplantation, staffed with experienced doctors and equipped with advanced technology. The clinic is also recognized for its outstanding service, having won the WhatClinic Patient Service Awards from the UK for four consecutive years.

Hair transplant with a real expert

She graduated with a Master’s degree in Dermatology from Cardiff University of the United Kingdom and is a member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) with experience in hair transplant surgery over 10 years as well as continuously attending ISHRS workshops and conferences in Malaysia, United States, Czech Republic, South Korea, and Spain.

With over 3,000 cases of successful hair transplant patients, you can be sure that Hairsmith Clinic is definitely one of the top hair transplants in the country.

Hair Transplant Reviews at Hairsmith Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hair Transplant

Conclusion

Hair transplantation is an effective solution for hair loss and baldness, but it requires proper preparation and expert care. By selecting the right method and an experienced surgeon, you can achieve natural-looking and satisfying results.