While losing a few strands of hair daily is common, some cases are more severe. Others experience it as an autoimmune disease called alopecia areata, which affects almost 2% of the global population.
Hair loss affects both genders. It is prominent in men, but a third of women also experience it. It could be tough, affecting how you look and feel about yourself. To women, the condition may be more impactful, as society has always encouraged women to have long, thick hair.
But you’re in luck—there are effective options to restore your mane, like a replacement procedure. A hair replacement procedure uses grafted sections of your body with healthy hair.
Thinking about a hair transplant? You’re not alone. Many people are also considering it to regain the glory of a full head of hair. This guide will walk you through the preparatory steps and expectations from the procedure.
Understanding hair transplants
Before advanced hair replacement techniques, wigs were among the most accessible options for addressing hair loss across genders. Later on, other noninvasive types of hair replacement for women and men started gaining traction. Specialists can help restore your luscious locks and give you the freedom to rock various styles.
Today, however, hair transplantation is the most straightforward but powerful approach. With the aid of a hair specialist, you can decide between two primary techniques: follicular unit extraction and follicular unit transplantation.
Hair transplant works by moving healthy hair follicles from one part of your scalp to another. Follicles are taken from the donor site and placed in the recipient site. Once these parts are in their new home, they’ll keep growing, giving your hair a natural look.
Pre-procedure preparation
Just as with any medical procedure, there are several steps you should take to prepare for hair replacement. Here’s what you should do before treating your hair loss through this procedure:
- Consultation
When you consult with a qualified hair transplant surgeon, they’ll take a close look at your hair loss pattern and medical history. Your surgeon will also want to know what you’re hoping to achieve. Here, you can ask any questions and discuss your desired results. Be open and honest about your expectations so your surgeon can give you the best advice.
- Medical clearance
Before the procedure, you may need to undergo blood tests or evaluations as directed by your surgeon. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions and get any necessary medical clearance. This will help ensure a smooth and safe procedure.
- Medications
If you’re taking any medications, especially blood thinners or aspirin, your surgeon may advise you to stop them before surgery. These medications can increase your risk of bleeding during the procedure. Also, inform your surgeon about any supplements or herbal remedies you’re taking. They can help you determine which ones are safe to continue and which ones you should stop.
- Lifestyle adjustments
To give your body the best chance to heal after your hair replacement procedure, your surgeon may recommend making some lifestyle changes. If you smoke, they may advise you to quit, and if you drink alcohol, they may suggest limiting your intake leading up to surgery. Eating a healthy diet packed with nutrients can also help your body heal optimally.
The procedure day
You might change into a surgical gown and receive local anesthesia right before the procedure. Here are the main steps your surgeon may follow:
- First, hair follicles are harvested from the donor area.
- Next, the surgeon makes small incisions in the recipient site, where the grafts will go.
- Lastly, the harvested follicles are carefully placed into the recipient sites.
The whole thing may take a while—usually several hours—based on your level of hair loss and the number of grafts you need. But don’t worry—your surgeon will take great care of you and keep you comfortable.
Post-operative care
After your hair replacement procedure, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and scabbing. Your surgeon will provide pain management instructions and wound care guidelines. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and continue any prescribed hair health care methods.
You may need to limit certain activities, such as exercise and heavy lifting, during the initial recovery period. Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Potential risks and side effects
Common side effects after a hair replacement procedure include swelling, redness, and temporary numbness. A study also reports that life-threatening issues are non-existent, but about 0.10% of minor complications may still occur. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon minimizes these risks.
If you experience any unusual symptoms or prolonged discomfort, contact your surgeon promptly. They’ll provide guidance and address any complications that may arise.
Realistic expectations
Keep your expectations in check before your hair replacement procedure. Don’t expect to recover right away—healing usually takes 6–12 months. You might even need more than one session to get the results you want. It’s also typical for transplanted hair to fall out within the first three months.
Always have an open, honest conversation with your surgeon about your expectations. They’ll give you a realistic idea of what to expect regarding hair growth timeline and results. Hair transplants could be a long-term solution, but keep in mind that you may need continuous maintenance.
Conclusion
Gearing up for your hair replacement procedure means covering all your bases, from consultations to medical clearance to lifestyle changes. Everyone’s experience is a little different. So you must talk to a qualified hair specialist who can offer you personalized advice. They’ll guide you throughout the process.
