Hair transplantation is the process that offers a definitive solution to the problem of extensive hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia. Unlike old methods, modern hair transplant techniques can achieve exceptional results. A necessary condition for the success of the operation is to be performed by α specialized Plastic Surgeon, who is appropriate experienced in the field.
Hair follicles
To fully understand the process of hair transplantation, it is important to explain the structure of hair as well as the genetic factors that lead to hair loss.
There are about 50,000 – 60,000 follicles on the scalp, which are called follicular units and yield 100,000 – 150,000 hairs. Depending on the location, each follicle, produces a different number of hairs. Thus the pockets located on the front line, yield 1 hair, while those distributed on the rest of the head yield 2 to 4 hairs.
Hair follicles are complete biological formations consisting of nerve fibers, sebum, sebaceous glands, collagen and the small orthotic muscle. Each hair follicle follows predetermined genetic rules. Thus in cases of androgenetic alopecia, the follicles located in the forehead and top of the skull are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a derivative of testosterone. The follicles at the back of the head and above the ears retain their genetic resistance to androgens and therefore to hair loss.
Causes of hair loss
Apart from the genetic factors of androgenetic alopecia, other causes of hair loss are:
- Psychological factors (distress or stress)
- Bad habits and poor nutrition
- Hormonal factors
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Skin diseases
- Iron deficiency anemia
How is the problem of hair loss treated?
There are several conservative methods that can stop hair loss. Special shampoos, powders, creams, lotions and vitamin pills can prevent or stop hair loss. The problem is, that those treatments provide a short – term solution. In addition, they cannot restore the lost hairs.
Hair transplantation provides a definitive solution to the problem of androgenetic alopecia and correction of the problem of thinning hair. Nowadays a lot of progress has been made in terms of available techniques and therefore we can have steadily natural results.
What are the available hair transplant methods?
There are two well-known and widely used methods of hair transplantation: FUE method (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT method (Follicular Unit Transplantation).
- FUE method
It is the most advanced method of hair transplantation. During the transplant, the follicular units are taken from the donor area, which is usually the back of the scalp. The pockets are taken using the appropriate tools, so as not to cause any injury in the area. After that the obtained pockets are placed, using special blades and subcutaneous needles, in the receiving area. No incisions or sutures are made during the operation, so there are no scars.
The result of the operation is visible within 3 to 12 months, while new hairs can continue to grow until the 18th month after the transplant. Transplanted hair grows normally and does not fall out again.
In addition to the scalp, the method is applied to other areas, such as eyebrows or face for beard growth.
- FUT method
FUT method is older than FUE method. A few years ago it was the most successful method of hair transplantation, but now it has almost been replaced by FUE. The most common argument for the prevalence of FUE over FUT is that the former provide more natural results, due to the fact that the hair follicles are taken one by one and not by whole series, as in the FUT method.
The truth behind this is that both methods are remarkable and extremely effective when applied by the proper medical team. The FUT method allows more hair follicles to be taken exclusively from the secure zone of the scalp (back zone), while the subtle scar that is created is covered by the remaining hair. The lines with the hair follicles are placed in the recipient area in a way that accurately replicates the normal growth pattern, in order to achieve an excellent natural result.
At Surgishape Clinic of Dr. Themistoklis Galanakis, the most modern techniques are applied by experienced and specialized surgical teams. The General Surgeon Dr. Galanakis CEO & Founder of the Clinic, the Plastic Surgeon & Scientific Director of the Department of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kyriakos Efthymoglou, as well as the other scientific collaborators of Surgishape, are at your disposal to solve any question regarding the modern methods of general and plastic, reconstructive & cosmetic surgery.
