Understanding hair transplant surgery

If you are like the millions of other people in the United States who are experiencing hair loss and want to do something about it, you may have considered a hair transplant procedure. But what exactly are you getting yourself into? In this article, you will find out nearly everything you need to know about the surgery and what comes after. 

What is a hair transplant? 
Simply put, hair transplant surgery is the process of removing hair from another part of your scalp or body and implanting it onto the bald sections of your head. It is a permanent solution to hair loss and baldness that uses the hair already available on your head and body. 

What will the procedure entail? 
Before you go in for surgery, you must meet with your doctor to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. In the surgery, your doctor will numb your scalp. He or she will then pinpoint suitable "donor sites" – places on your body that could provide adequate hair. Donor hair is typically taken from the hair follicles on the back and sides of the scalp. Once the hair has been extracted from the donor site, the doctor will make small incisions in your scalp. The donor hair will be transplanted into those slits, also called grafts. WebMD reported that this part of the process can take between four to eight hours. 

A hair transplant looks natural because it is your own hair that will grow in.

What is the recovery time? 
As with any surgical procedure, recovery times vary from patient to patient. However, most people can expect to wear bandages and take pain medication for two days or more. There may be a need for anti-inflammatory medication, as well. However, most people are back to their normal routine before a week is up. 

What can I expect after the surgery? 
There may be a little soreness at first, but it will all be worth it. Once the healing begins, patients will notice the start of their new hair growth. It is normal for the hair used for transplanting to fall out in the first month. This is a sign that new hair is growing underneath. Over half of the new growth will be visible at least six months in the future. 

Hair transplant surgery can give you a new lease on life. It can change the way you interact socially and boost your confidence. Additionally, most procedures are relatively pain-free and leave little or no scars.

Now that you understand the procedure more fully, you can better determine if it is the right treatment for you. To learn about other hair loss solutions or to schedule a consultation, visit Marotta Hair Restoration's website today.