How Does a Hair Transplant Work?

Getting a hair transplant Palo Alto can seem like an excellent choice when it comes to restoring hair lost to baldness. These transplants have come a long way over the years, and the way they are done is much different now than it was in the past. Additionally, there are many people who would not have been good candidates for a transplant in the past, but now can have a procedure that will work for them. The highest quality transplants are robotic hair transplants, as these are performed much differently than the old "hair plugs" that used to make up the majority of hair transplant procedures. 

Newer hair transplants work by removing hair from the back of the head. That hair is then implanted into the thinning area, which is most often at the front of the scalp where the hairline begins to recede. That hair will last for a lifetime. The hair that is removed from the back of the head is not harvested in large patches like it was in the past. Instead, hairs are collected from the groupings in which they naturally grow. Then the hairs are individually transplanted. That individual transplantation will provide the look the patient wants, and hair that looks and feels natural.

It's also possible to get a fuller head of hair with the robotic hair transplant procedure. Patients who have this procedure are only given a local anesthetic, and they can go back to their normal activities in a couple of days. There's no pain, and the procedure is performed in the office. With no need to go to the hospital or be sedated, more people can choose to have a hair transplant even if they are fearful of hospitals or they shouldn't be sedated for medical reasons.

A hair transplant typically takes between four and eight hours. Taking breaks, watching a movie, listening to music, and other options for comfort are also common. Caring for newly transplanted hair requires specific instructions, but once healing is complete the hair is treated like any other hair. Hair growth from a transplant does take time, and patients should expect to wait about three months before they see any difference. 

The majority of the hair growth will take five to eight months to occur, and hair will continue to get thicker for a few months after that time.

4 Things to Expect After a Hair Transplant Surgery

Many people suffer from hair loss at some point in their lives, but the fact of the matter is that nobody should have to. With amazing advancements in the medical field, it is now easier than ever to stop hair loss and actually re-grow hair where it's already been lost. 

This can be done through a procedure known as a hair transplant Palo Alto surgeons are capable of performing this. For those considering a hair transplant, however, there are some things to be aware of when it comes to the recovery phases.

Initial Hair Shedding

One surprising aspect of recovering from a hair transplant is that most patients will actually experience further hair loss after the initial procedure. This might seem like the exact opposite of what should be happening following a hair transplant, but it's actually completely normal to shed hair before it will begin to grow back. In other words, this is nothing to be concerned about. The hair will grow back.

Full Results After One Year

Those considering a hair transplant should also be aware that it can take up to a full year for the full results of the procedure to show up. Many people go into a hair transplant with the misguided assumption that their hair will completely grow back and everything will be great within a few weeks. In reality, however, it takes some time for the scalp to adjust to the implants and for the hair to grow, so patience is key during this time.

Need for Hair Loss Supplements

To prevent future hair loss following a hair transplant, it's also common for some surgeons to prescribe or recommend a hair loss supplement to their patients after the surgery. This is usually an oral supplement that's taken between once and twice a day and will keep hair from falling out in the future.

A Second Procedure (Possibly)

In some cases, it may also be necessary to have a second hair transplant done. This is often avoidable, but this is not always the case. Those thinking about having a hair transplant done should find out ahead of time if their surgeon anticipates needing to do another procedure and, if so, whether or not that procedure is covered in the initial quote for the surgery. Otherwise, a second procedure can add a significant amount of cost.

Understanding Hair Transplant

Unfortunately, everyone doesn't have the genes for a head of thick, luscious hair. In either case, human beings have developed a certain aversion toward those who are balding or have gone bald. Worst of all, baldness doesn't discriminate based on status, gender, or age, and it is inevitable for millions of people. Instead of allowing baldness to destroy one's self esteem, a growing number of people are turning to hair transplant Palo Alto. Continue reading to learn more about hair transplantation.

Introduction to Hair Transplant

Hair transplantation is a surgical process when hair follicles from one part of the body are relocated to the areas affected by the hair loss. The transplant can be for a partial loss or a complete loss. In addition to treating baldness on the head, hair transplant can also be used for several other parts of the body, such as eye lashes, eye brows, for chest hair and facial hair. In any case, both the extraction and implantation of the hair are very important and call for surgical precision. Because it is a surgical procedure, hair transplants are often used as a last resort.

Does Hair Implantation Require Sedation

The process of surgical hair implantation requires both pre operative and post operative precautions. The process involves very little or no sedation and typically uses harvesting of strip and/or extraction of follicular units. However, it is important to choose a physician who has the proper certifications and experience.

Factors Affecting Cost of Hair Transplant

Since the hair transplant procedure requires a surgical and delicate acumen, the price of a hair transplant can range based on factors. In most cases, the cost of the transplant is based on the of grafts made and the technique used by the physician. In addition, the cost is affected by:

• Extent of hair loss

• Availability of donor hair

• Texture features of the hair given by the donating region

• Individual circumstances.

Over time, the cost associated with hair transplant has decreased. Due to technological advancements, there are several more affordable options for consumers to choose from. In addition, many clinics offer a free consultation for the process.

What to do After a Hair Transplant

The days and weeks following a hair transplant are very important. One or more mistakes made by a Palo Alto resident who has just gotten a hair transplant can reduce the likelihood of healthy hair growing over a previously bald area. Following are some tips that can greatly increase the odds of the transplant being successful and remaining good-looking for the long term.

Take Time to Rest

A person who has just had a hair transplant Palo Alto will need help getting back home. Upon arriving home, rest will most likely be in order. It is important to sleep in a semi-upright position so as to avoid putting pressure on the area where hair was removed. It is also a good idea to take at least a few days off from work to recover from the procedure. Those who cannot sleep to the discomfort caused by the transplant may take an over the counter painkiller.

Washing the Hair

Some surgeons note that the hair should be shampooed the first day after tent surgery while others say that hair should not be washed for the first two or three days after the surgery. It is important for one to ask his or her doctor for detailed washing instructions and then follow these explicitly. In any case, it is important not to be too rough on the scalp when washing hair. A balanced shampoo should be used and one may want to consider washing the hair gently in the sink or bathtub at first as opposed to washing it in the shower.

One should not be surprised when the newly grafted hair falls off after being washed. This is a normal reaction and does not mean that the transplant was a failure, as the newly transplanted stem cells remain in the scalp and new hair will grow in short order.

Hair Protection

It is important not to scratch the scabs. If these itch, then use painkiller. When going out into the sun, wear a loose hat to protect the near hair follicles from sunburn. One will also want to avoid playing active sports for the first ten days after the transplant.

Because getting a hair transplant is not cheap, it is important for a person to do everything possible to ensure that the transplant is a success. While choosing the right doctor is imperative, it is also vital for one to take proper care of the hair after the transplant so that healthy new hair will grow without problems or issues.

Tips for Choosing the Best Hair Transplant Facility

When it comes to selecting a hair transplant facility, it is of the utmost importance that a person conduct thorough research. Without the proper credentials, a person should not be performing any type of hair transplant, and a person considering the procedure shouldn't want to go to someone that might mess up. Here's a closer look at four tips to keep in mind when it comes to choosing a clinic that specializes in hair transplant Palo Alto.

Research, Research, and Research

In regards to researching, this doesn't simply mean to locate the different facilities. It means to check out their references, the length of time that they have each specialized in hair transplants, and the way they go about remedying any problems that arise from the situation. After all, there's nothing worse than having a cosmetic procedure performed only to go home and realize that no aftercare support is provided. 

When researching, it's recommended to do the research both online and offline. This means a person will want to perform part of his research looking at various clinics' reviews, pricing, and financing options. Offline, a person will want to actually call the clinics and ask to speak with the physician performing the procedures.

Talk to Other People

One of the best ways to find the best clinic for hair transplants is by speaking with other people who have already undergone the procedure. Not only can these people tell a person which physicians are the best, but they can also pinpoint the ones that a person should steer clear of.

Experience, Experience, Experience

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is that the physician a person chooses have much experience in performing hair transplant procedures. If the person has limited experience, the procedure should in the least be performed under a supervising physician who has performed the procedure successful at least 500 times.

Always Attend a Consultation

Never should a person go into have a hair transplant procedure performed without first meeting the physician through a thorough consultation. The physician will need to ask many questions to ensure the procedure is a good idea, and it's at the consultation that a person can ask about any concerns he or she may have.

When Should Men Consider Getting a Hair Transplant?

A person’s hair is an important factor to their overall look. People can change their hair to match their mood and enhance their appearance. With that being said, a person’s hair greatly affects how one views themselves. Men who are losing their hair lack the ability to change their look. In fact, they may or may not have shaved their head at all prior to losing their hair, yet they have no other options now that they are experiencing hair loss. Or, so they think.

Advances in technology have made it possible to get hair transplants in Palo Alto. No longer do men have to try over-the-counter treatments in hopes of regrowing their hair.

They can simply get hair transplants and have a healthy head of hair in a few months. Men may want to consider hair transplants in the following scenarios.

They Can See Their Complete Pattern of Hair Loss

The pattern of hair loss is an important consideration when men are losing their hair. If the hair loss has recently started and a person cannot determine their pattern, it’s not a wise decision to get hair implants. If they do so, their hair loss may continue, which would make lead to bald spots in other places after their hair transplant is over.

They Have Hair to Transplant

There are many different forms of male pattern baldness. Some men who experience hair loss don’t have enough hair to transplant. They experience complete baldness or their hair is so thin and fine, doctors would not be able to properly get hair graphs. Individuals facing this scenario should speak with their doctor to determine the next best option for them.

Their Scalp Is in Good Condition

To have a successful hair transplant a person’s scalp must be in good condition. Men considering hair implants must have loose scalps. The degree of their scalp laxity will help doctors determine whether they are a good candidate for hair transplants. Generally, doctors determine this by assessing their scalps. If the doctor determines their patient has a tight scalp, they may recommend scalp exercises to loosen up their scalp.

Doctors consider a lot of factors before making hair transplants. For men who are contemplating getting hair transplant Palo Alto, they should take into consideration how doctors examine people for hair transplants to determine if they are a good candidate for the surgery.

Digital and Robotic Technology Lead to Successful Hair Transplants

Contrary to what many believe, men care just as much about their appearance as women, and one of the main points of contention is the fact that many start losing their hair as they get older. Over 50 million men in the United States experience some sort of hair loss, and it can start at any time after puberty. As many as 20% start losing hair in their 20s, and 30% in their 30s. At the relatively young age of 35, two-thirds of men notice that their hair has thinned, by the time 50 rolls around 85% have lost a good amount of hair. With medical technology continuing to evolve, many men look for proven methods of hair transplant in Palo Alto.

Why Men Lose Hair The cause of thinning hair comes from a mixture of factors. Hormonal changes can trigger smaller hair follicles. Heredity plays a role too. The traditional belief is that the hair loss gene comes from the mother's side, but a good head of hair on your maternal grandfather can lead to a false sense of security. The other side plays a role as well. Behavior and environmental factors come into play as well. High stress levels, some medications, smoking, nutrition, and sleeping habits can make men lose hair faster, making them feel compelled to research methods of hair transplant in Palo Alto.

Hair Transplant Options Thinning hair seems like a mere cosmetic problem that is simply a side effect of getting older. Some men are able to take it in stride, but others take it to heart and lose confidence. It can affect their relationships, their success in their careers, and can even lead them to neglect their self care in other ways, such as eating poorly, drinking, or failing to get regular exercise and sleep. Men fight hair loss in a variety of ways. They may take nutritional supplements or undergo low level laser therapy. In most cases, hair transplants are the only thing that provides a long term solution. Hair transplants have been available in the United States since the 50s, and some have taken advantage of early methods of hair transplant in Palo Alto. Men have struggled with keeping these looking natural and holding up as they take part in the various activities of their lives.

New Technology The newest methods use digital imaging and robotics in order to complete hair transplants. It is an FDA approved methods of harvesting actual follicular units by using robotics. The procedure is minimally invasive, provides consistent results, and stands up to an active lifestyle. Unlike previous procedures, this type of hair transplant does not require any type of incision. Through digital imaging, healthy hair follicles can be identified and be artistically transplanted into areas where hair loss is a problem. Men have notices some results by using this method within days, and within 9-12 months the follicles become strong enough in their new position to be considered permanent.

Debunking 3 Common Myths About Hair Transplants

For those who are tired of looking in the mirror to see a receding hairline, there are plenty of options out there that promise to restore one's hair growth. There are store-bought remedies and even surgical remedies, such as hair transplants. However, many people find themselves skeptical of getting a hair transplant Palo Alto area because they have been fed some or all of the following myths. 

 
They Need to Be Done at a Young Age

Many people believe they cannot have a hair transplant done because of their age. These people believe that, if a transplant isn't done as soon as hair loss begins, there won't be results. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, there's really no age limit when it comes to receiving a hair transplant. As long as a patient is in overall good health and has balding, there's a good chance that he or she is going to be a viable candidate to have the procedure done.

Still, the only way to know for sure if somebody is a viable candidate for a hair transplant is to consult with a professional. 

 
Hair Transplants Are Painful

Another myth floating around out there about hair transplants that keeps a lot of people from considering them as an option is that they're painful and keep people from partaking in their everyday activities. In reality, most people who have a hair transplant done report that they aren't very painful at all, and that they're able to return to their everyday activities quickly—often within about a day. Of course, everybody's results will differ, but being afraid of pain should not be a reason to overlook a hair transplant. 

 
Hair Transplants Are Way Too Expensive

Compared to other methods of hair restoration, it's true that hair transplants are on the higher end of the cost spectrum. However, they're also on the higher end of the spectrum when it comes to the overall procedure success rate. Furthermore, many people considering hair transplants report that they're pleasantly surprised to learn that having the procedure done is actually less expensive than they had originally anticipated.

Many hair transplant facilities also offer financing options to make the procedure as affordable as possible for all patients. In this sense, just about anybody can afford to have a hair transplant done that will change their lives.

Determining Candidacy for a Hair Transplant

A hair transplant procedure involves the relocating of hair from one area of the head to a balding or thinning area of the head. Contrary to what some people believe, a hair transplant doesn't involve growing any new hair; it simply means relocating hairs that are already on one's head.

Unfortunately, not everybody is a viable candidate for a hair transplant Palo Alto or any other area. There are some specific criteria a doctor must look for when determining whether or not a person would make a viable candidate for such a procedure.

The Person's Age

The potential patient's age must be taken into consideration when it comes to determining candidacy. That's because, the older the patient is, the more noticeable the transplant pattern generally appears to be. Of course, age alone is not usually enough to disqualify a person from getting a hair transplant, but it's still something that must be taken into consideration along with other factors.

Baldness Pattern

The type of baldness the person is currently suffering from must also be taken into consideration during an initial assessment, as some patterns of baldness are easier to work with than others. Furthermore, the person's likelihood of further balding in the future must also be considered, as future balding will need to be planned for.

In some cases, when future balding is expected, it may be necessary for the patient to schedule follow-up procedures in order to keep the hair looking natural. However, this will need to be discussed with a doctor.

Hair Quality and Quantity

The prospective patient's hair quality and quantity is also important in determining whether a person is a viable candidate for a hair transplant or not. Generally, those with thicker hair have more successful transplants than those with fine, brittle hair. Furthermore, those who have more hair also have more to work with during the transplant procedure, which is why having the transplant done as soon as balding starts to become a problem is so important. The texture of the hair can also come into play.

Certainly, doctors must take many different factors into consideration when determining whether a hair transplant is right for them. In many cases, it is, but it's still important to meet with a doctor to find out for sure. From there, a well informed decision can be made.

Questions and Answers About the New Robotic Hair Transplant System

Hair transplants have been around for years, but now, a new system has arrived on the scene. This method eliminates the need for hand-harvested and hand-placed grafts by using a robot to do the steps. The end result is hair grafts that look far more realistic and take less time to heal. Needless to say, it offers many benefits to patients.

Those just looking into hair transplants likely have some basic questions about the procedure that go beyond the whether a human or a machine will do the placements. Here are some of the ones that are most likely to be asked:

Where Does the Hair for Transplants Come From?

A hair transplant Palo Alto uses hair from the patient's own body. Typically, it is taken from the back of the scalp, which is one of the last areas to lose hair, and placed into the spots where the hair is thinning or is already gone. Thanks to the new robotic method, however, hair can now also be taken from the back and chest. In many men, these areas have plenty of hair, though it must be placed carefully in order to hide any texture differences.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

With the new method, recovery typically takes just one to three days. During that time, the patient will experience some minor swelling and discomfort in the scalp and any areas hair was taken from. Once this goes down, normal activity can be resumed.

How Long Does it Take for the New Hair to Grow?

The new hair will typically show some growth within three months, but it won't start growing strongly until 6-8 months have passed. This is how long it takes for the plugs to become fully integrated with the scalp and receive the full blood supply needed to support good hair growth.

Do All Hair Transplant Clinics Use the New Method?

Not yet, but because it offers so many benefits to patients, it is sure to be adopted by more and more hair transplant providers as time goes on.

Just What Makes the Robotic Method Superior?

The amount of precision that can be attained is the main reason this method is so much better. Hair clusters as small as three follicles can be harvested and placed. This eliminates the patchy look that hand-done transplants often have. The robot is also better at transplanting hair at the exact angles needed for realistic future growth. For these reasons and more, the robot is the best tool for this job.

What to Expect When Getting a Hair Transplant

People lose hair for many reasons. Hair loss is typical in men and women who are over the age of 60, but it can happen to almost anyone. A lot of hair loss has to do with hereditary traits. Everyone wants to feel young and part of that includes having a full head of hair. If a person struggles with their look because of the loss of hair, a hair transplant procedure may be their best option. If someone is looking for a hair transplant palo alto offers a great facility that will handle it. 

Hair transplant procedures have been around since the 1950's. Typically, the procedure is done right in the doctor's office. In most cases, the doctor will take a strip of hair from the back of the scalp and transplant it to an area that is thinning or contains no hair. Part of the scalp is removed with the opening sewn back up and covered with the leftover hair. The piece that has just been removed is separated into tiny hair particles. Tiny holes are made with the scalpel where the hair will eventually be placed into. During this procedure, the patient will be placed under local anesthesia. 

Once the transplant has been performed, the patient will then be given some pain medication as it is likely their scalp will be sore for a few days. They may need the pain meds for a few days until the scalp starts to feel better. They will also be given some antibiotics to help avoid any infections that can occur in the openings. Usually a surgical dressing is placed over the scalp for a couple of days while the area heals. If the person has been out of work for the procedure, it is likely they will be able to return a few days later if everything seems to be healing properly. 

The hair that was transplanted into the open areas will likely start to fall out about 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure. A few months later, the patient will then start to see new hair growth take place. The patient may also be given a product called Rogaine to help increase hair growth. 

How to Know if Hair Transplant Surgery is the Best Option

Hair transplant surgery is an effective albeit drastic option for those who want to get rid of a large, noticeable bald spot. However, it is important to note that this option is not best for everyone. Following are some points to take into account before making an appointment to see a Palo Alto hair transplant surgeon.

Age

Men who have lost a significant amount of hair at the onset of adulthood or shortly thereafter are particularly self-conscious about their hair loss and often opt for immediate hair transplant surgery to correct the problem. Unfortunately, those who get surgery at a very young age often need two or even three corrective procedures to make the hairline look truly natural.

The main problem with having a hair transplant at a young age is that the hairline has not finished receding. While the transplant may cover the existing, affected area, a new area will appear unless the balding has been addressed and stopped before the surgical procedure. A good doctor will recommend waiting a few years to ensure the hairline has receded as far back as it will go before performing surgery.

Current Hair Supply

There are various ways in which a hair transplant can be performed. However, all cases involve transplanting hair from one area of the patient's scalp (generally the back and/or sides) to another area (usually the front and/or top of the head). In order for a hair transplant to look fully natural, a patient must have plenty of hair in the back and on the sides of his or her head. This is particularly important for those who are having traditional hair transplant surgery rather than Artas robotic hair surgery.

Recovery Time

It takes time to recover from hair transplant surgery. Those who have a very busy schedule and would not be able to take a few days or even a week or two off of work may want to put off hair transplant palo alto surgery for the time being.

While hair transplant surgery can be an effective way to treat baldness, it is not the only option. What is more, it is not always the best option for every single person. When in doubt, consult an experienced Palo Alto hair transplant surgeon and ask not only about the hair transplant procedure but also alternative forms of treatment.