Hair loss is a common phenomenon in men as well as women. Be it genetics, health conditions, stress, or alopecia. Several factors can lead to premature hair loss, thinning of hair, or a receding hairline. While over-the-counter medications and topical treatments are available, most people opt for hair transplants for lasting results.
So this brings us to the most obvious question: “How long does hair transplant last?” Before getting into a detailed answer to this question, let’s learn about hair transplants to make an informed decision about getting one.
What is a hair transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that has been popular since 1950. In recent decades, the popularity has exploded even more. The surgery involves extracting hair follicles from the donor site, either individually (FUE) or as a strip of skin from an area of the head that has healthy hair growth (FUT). These follicles are then transplanted into the bald patches on the scalp. As the incisions on the scalp heal, the follicles start promoting the growth of new hair.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
In this method of hair transplant, the surgeon will extract individual follicles from the donor area using a microneedle. This process does not involve any skin graft, thus no stitches are required. The surgeon makes tiny incisions from where the follicle units are extracted. These incisions will heal and soon be concealed by existing hair. The individual follicular units are then transplanted into incisions made on the bald patches. FUE is more common as compared to FUT and involves less scarring.
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Unlike FUE, where individual follicular units are extracted, in FUT the surgeon grafts an entire strip of the scalp from the donor area. This strip is usually extracted from the back of the head. The strip is further split in to as many as 500 to 2,000 minuscule follicular grafts, with each graft comprising either an individual strand of hair or a few hairs. The surgeon then punches tiny incisions into the recipient area, where the follicular grafts are transplanted.
How long does hair transplant last?
While considering a hair transplant, it is normal to wonder how long a hair transplant will last. If you want your hair transplant to last a lifetime, it is important that you get it done from an experienced and reputed hair restoration specialist.
Once the hair transplant procedure is complete, you will notice the new outline of your enhanced hairline. However, many patients might notice that the newly transplanted hair falls out within two to six weeks. This can be frustrating to encounter, but take note that this is normal and you will start to see new hair growth in a few months in a permanent capacity. It takes around six months before you can see significant changes in hair growth. The complete results of the transplant will be visible after a year.
In most cases, a hair transplant will last a lifetime because healthy hair follicles are transplanted into thinning or bald areas. However, a hair transplant’s lifespan can be affected by factors like the patient’s hair type, lifestyle, age, and the extent of hair loss. In such cases, the patient might require multiple procedures to get the desired results.
Modern-day hair transplants are permanent, safe, and natural-looking. Regardless of your gender, age, and extent of hair loss, consult your doctor today, and discuss your hair transplant options. With a high success rate, these surgeries can get your lost self-confidence back!
