- Hair graft survival rate:
- Not all transplanted hair grafts may survive.
- The surgeon will factor in the expected survival rate to ensure enough viable grafts to achieve the desired coverage.
- Different graft types, such as single-hair follicular units, multiple-hair follicular units, or micrografts, may be used based on the patient’s specific needs and the treatment area.
- Hair characteristics(thickness, texture):
- The thickness and texture of the patient’s hair can influence the appearance of density.
- The flexibility or laxity of the scalp affects the ease of graft insertion and the overall success of the procedure.
- Limited scalp laxity may affect the number of grafts that can be transplanted in a single session.
- The patient’s expectations and goals for the hair transplant are crucial in the planning process.
- Realistic expectations are essential for a satisfying outcome.
- Previous hair transplant:
- If the patient has undergone previous hair transplant procedures, the surgeon must consider the available donor supply and the condition of the existing transplanted hair.
A qualified hair transplant surgeon will create a personalized treatment plan based on each individual’s unique case, ensuring a thorough evaluation is essential for accurately calculating the number of grafts needed for a successful hair transplant.
What is a hair graft?
A hair graft is a small unit of hair-bearing tissue surgically transplanted from one area of the body (the donor area) to another (the recipient area), typically in a hair transplant procedure. The primary goal of a hair graft is to restore hair growth in areas affected by hair loss. The tissue containing hair follicles is extracted from the donor area and transplanted to the desired area (the recipient area). The goal is to transplant functioning hair follicles to areas affected by hair loss, resulting in natural-looking and long-lasting results.
- Follicular unit transplantation(FUT) grafts:
- In FUT, a strip of tissue containing hair follicles is surgically removed from the donor area, and the individual follicular units (groups of 1-4 hairs) are dissected under a microscope.
- These follicular units, or grafts, are then transplanted into the recipient area.
- Follicular unit extraction(FUE) grafts:
- Individual follicular units:
- In FUE, individual follicular units are extracted directly from the donor area using a small, punch-like instrument.
- Each graft is then transplanted to the recipient area.
- FUE does not involve a linear incision like FUT.
- Micrografts or mini grafts:
- Micro grafts typically contain 1-2 hairs, while mini grafts may contain 3-4 hairs.
- These smaller grafts are often used to create a natural-looking hairline.
- Single-hair follicular units:
- Fine hairs for natural results:
- Single-hair grafts are strategically placed in the hairline and frontal area for a soft and natural appearance.
The choice of graft type in a hair transplant depends on the patient’s needs, the surgeon’s technique, and donor hair characteristics. The goal is optimal coverage, density, and a natural-looking result. A successful hair transplant necessitates skilled surgeon expertise and donor hair quality, necessitating consultation with a qualified surgeon to determine the appropriate type and number of grafts.