Surgical Hair Loss Solutions

Modem techniques in hair grafting (the most frequently performed method of transplanting hair) are performed by taking small pieces of hair bearing scalp from the back and sides of the head and moving them into holes and slits on the top of the head. This technique is commonly called hair grafting, punch grafting, plug grafting or hair transplantation. This surgical hair loss solution is performed by many physicians and in many clinics throughout the world. No new hair is added – hair and skin are relocated.

Grafting techniques include the following types of grafts:

  • Micrograft: 1 to 2 hair grafts into needle holes.
  • Small slit grafts: 3 to 4 hairs into a slit recipient site.
  • Large slit grafts: S to7 hairs into a slit recipient site.
  • Small minigraft: 3 to 4 hairs into a small recipient site.
  • Large minigraft: 5 to 8 hairs into a small round recipient site.
  • Standard round or square grafting: Approximately 9 to 18 hairs in a 3-45 mm size graft placed into a slightly smaller round recipient site.

Marketing terms used by different physicians and businesses may be confusing. In hair transplants all grafting procedures will be one of the above or a combination.

How Many Grafts Does It Take To Get Adequate Coverage?

A square of paper 3.3 inches long will give you a realistic idea of the area that would require approximately 500-600 standard grafts. This will indicate the importance of strategic planning and precise placement of grafts to give the illusion of more hair.

The Future

 

Instead of basing your decision on the immediate results, keep in mind androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss) is progressive. Outstanding results may be obtained today that may not be there in the future. Plan your hairline and density conservatively as though you were already in the future.

Flaps

 

Although flaps transfer the greatest amount of hair in the shortest amount of time, the surgery is more extensive and specific skill and experience is required by the doctor.

A much larger portion of hair bearing skin (a flap) is transferred from sides and back to the balding area. The flap remains attached at one end through which it maintains nourishment. Therefore the hair in the flap can grow continuously unlike grafted hair which falls out before regrowing.

Scalp Reduction

 

The surgical removal of bald areas of the top of the scalp. Usually multiple scalp reductions are done, with success dependent on the laxity of the scalp and the limited degree of hair loss as well as the age of the patient. Almost all scalp reductions are done with a combination of either flaps or grafts.

Scalp Expansion & Scalp Extension

 

These are done to accommodate scalp reductions when the laxity of the scalp is too tight. Expansion is also used to prepare individuals for flap surgeries.

Surgical Hair Transplants

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SPECIALIST NEAR YOU

Although the American Hair Loss Council does not endorse or recommend any individual firm, we can supply you with a list of AHLC specialists in or near your specific area.

All AHLC members sign a statement that they will honor our Code of Ethics which is centered around the protection of you, the consumer. Request the American Hair Loss Council Source Book.