Hair loss can be a difficult experience for both men and women and can lead to a decrease in self-confidence. Fortunately, various hair transplant techniques are available today that can provide natural-looking results with minimal downtime. From the traditional strip method to the latest advancements in FUE and robotic-assisted technology, the five best hair transplant techniques have been carefully selected to provide the most optimal results. Each method offers its own unique benefits, such as minimal scarring, less downtime, and shorter recovery time. Whether you’re looking for a permanent solution to hair loss or just a temporary fix, these five best hair transplant techniques can help you achieve the look you desire.
- Strip Method
The strip method is one of the oldest and best hair transplant technique used to transplant hair. Traditionally, an incision is made along the hairline. The strip method involves taking a section of hair from the patient’s scalp and placing it wherever they wish to have the hairline extended. Doctors have been performing this procedure since the 1940s, but it has only gained popularity in the last few years. This best hair transplant technique is ideal for those with enough hair to create a strip, but not enough to harvest a full donor area. The strip method can be completed in as little as an hour and requires no anesthesia. Because it is a simple approach, it is a good option for those who do not want permanent changes to their appearance.
- Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
If the strip method is a simple but limited way to transplant hair, follicular unit extraction (FUE) represents the future of hair transplantation. In this technique, hair follicles from the patient’s scalp are removed (either manually or with a device), then the follicles are “enucleated” (removed from the nucleus). Next, the follicles are “piggybacked” on top of one another, creating a “follicular unit”. With FUE, doctors can harvest as many as 400 grafts in a single session, which means the patient can be back home that evening with a new appearance, minimal scarring, and minimal downtime. The only drawback of FUE is the price tag: It can cost up to $10,000 per session, compared to approximately $2,000 for strip surgery.
- Robotic-assisted Hair Transplant
Robotic-assisted hair transplantation has quickly become the go-to method for those seeking long-term solutions to hair loss. In this procedure, a patient receives a series of injections that prompt the body to produce new hair. Depending on the patient’s goals and the severity of the hair loss, the doctors may place anywhere from 100 to 300 grafts during the transplant. The new hair produced by the procedure does not fall out, so patients can enjoy the look of new hair for several weeks before the new hair begins to fall out, resulting in a gradual transition from strip to follicular transplantation. Though the cost of robotic-assisted hair transplantation is significantly higher than strip or follicular transplantation, it can last up to five years, making it a great long-term solution.
- Scalp Micro-pigmentation
Scalp micro-pigmentation is an increasingly popular way to cover a hair transplant scar. This method entails using a micro-pigment on the scarred area to help camouflage the scars resulting from a hair transplant procedure. Various colors and designs are available, and these pigments can create a virtually seamless transition from tattoo to transplantation. As with a traditional tattoo, the pigment does not fade over time, so there is no need to worry about removing the scar from the transplant. This procedure is quick and simple, requiring no downtime and virtually no recovery time.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one of the best options for those interested in the latest in hair transplantation technology. In this procedure, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient, then centrifuged to separate the platelets from the blood plasma. The platelets are then combined with cytokines, growth factors, and other key ingredients to create a “growth factor cocktail”. Though the exact composition of each cocktail remains a closely guarded secret, doctors have repeatedly demonstrated that this cocktail makes all the difference. This procedure is similar to FUE, but with PRP, the doctor can place anywhere from 100 to 400 grafts in a single session, making it the best hair transplant technique available.
Conclusion
Hair transplants are a popular cosmetic procedure that involves taking hair from another part of the body and transplanting it onto the scalp to cover the hairless areas. Although the procedure may seem simple, it can be quite challenging to pull off as you need to be meticulous about the hair’s shape, color, and texture. If performed wrong, the results can be disappointing and even dangerous. However, hair transplants can be the perfect solution to hair loss if done well.
