What is Hair Transplantation and How Is It Done?
What is Hair Transplantation?
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure performed to restore hair to balding areas of people who experience hair loss or baldness. This procedure is usually performed by transplanting healthy hair follicles taken from the back or sides of the head to balding or sparse areas. Hair transplantation has become very popular in recent years as it provides natural and permanent results.
History of Hair Transplantation
Hair transplantation first emerged in Japan in the 1930s. Dr Okuda developed the basic principles of hair transplantation by transplanting hair follicles into balding areas. However, the development of modern hair transplantation techniques was initiated by Dr Norman Orentreich in the United States in the 1950s. Since then, the technology and methods have continuously improved and today more natural and effective results are achieved.
Hair Transplant Methods
The hair transplant procedure can be performed using different methods. The most commonly used hair transplant methods are as follows:
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
This method involves removing a strip of skin from the back of the head, separating individual hair follicles from the strip, and transplanting them into bald areas. Advantages: A larger number of grafts can be transplanted in a shorter time. Disadvantages: A scar may remain on the back of the head, and the recovery time may be longer.
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)
In this method, hair follicles are extracted individually from the back or sides of the head and transplanted into bald areas. Advantages: The risk of scarring is lower, and the recovery time is shorter. Disadvantages: The procedure may take longer and require more attention.
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)
In the DHI method, hair follicles are directly implanted into bald areas using a special pen (Choi implanter). Advantages: A denser and more natural appearance can be achieved. Disadvantages: It may be more expensive compared to other methods.
PRP-Supported Hair Transplant
In this method, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), obtained from the patient’s own blood, is applied before and after the hair transplant. PRP helps speed up the healing and growth of hair follicles. Advantages: It speeds up the healing process and may improve the results. Disadvantages: It may increase the cost as it is an additional procedure.
How is Hair Transplantation Performed?
The hair transplant procedure consists of several stages. Here are the details of the hair transplant process:
Consultation and Planning
Before starting the hair transplant procedure, a consultation session with the doctor is essential. At this stage, the patient’s hair loss condition is evaluated, expectations are discussed, and a hair transplant plan is created.
Determining the Hairline
To achieve a natural and aesthetic appearance, the hairline is determined in accordance with the patient’s facial features.
Preparing the Donor Area
The donor area from where the hair follicles will be extracted (usually the back of the head) is numbed with local anesthesia, and the extraction of hair follicles begins.
Harvesting Hair Follicles
Depending on the chosen method (FUT, FUE, or DHI), hair follicles are carefully harvested. The harvested follicles are stored in a special solution before transplantation.
Opening Channels
Channels are opened in the bald areas where the hair follicles will be transplanted. This step is crucial for ensuring the natural growth of hair.
Transplanting Hair Follicles
The harvested hair follicles are carefully placed into the opened channels. This procedure is done with care to ensure a natural and even distribution of hair.
Recovery Process
After the hair transplant procedure is completed, the patient’s recovery process begins. The first few days require rest and special care. Following the doctor’s instructions helps accelerate the healing process and achieve successful results.
Hair Transplant Prices: What is the Cost of Hair Transplantation in 2024?
Hair transplant prices vary depending on several factors. The main factors affecting the cost of hair transplants in 2024 are:
Method Used
Different methods, such as FUT, FUE, DHI, or PRP-supported hair transplantation, have a significant impact on the cost. DHI and PRP-supported hair transplants are generally more expensive.
Number of Grafts to be Transplanted
As the number of grafts increases, the cost also rises. Each graft represents a hair follicle, and more intensive hair transplantation requires more grafts.
Clinic and Doctor Selection
The experience of the clinic and doctor where the hair transplant is performed plays a crucial role in the price. More experienced and well-known doctors tend to charge higher fees.
Location
The city or country where the hair transplant procedure is performed has a significant effect on the cost. Turkey is a popular destination for hair transplants, offering quality services at affordable prices.
Additional Services
Additional services provided during or after the hair transplant (PRP treatment, special care products, accommodation, etc.) may increase the cost.
Estimated Hair Transplant Prices for 2024
Hair transplant prices for 2024 may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. In Turkey, hair transplant prices are generally calculated on a per-graft basis. Since an average hair transplant procedure involves thousands of grafts, the total cost can vary significantly based on the number of grafts to be transplanted and the method chosen.
However, prices may differ depending on the clinic, the doctor’s experience, and the method used. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals considering hair transplants obtain price quotes from different clinics and conduct detailed research.
Hair transplantation offers a permanent and effective solution for individuals experiencing hair loss. With different methods and pricing options available, there is a hair transplant method suitable for everyone’s needs and budget. Being informed about what to expect before and after the hair transplant procedure is crucial for achieving successful and natural results. Before undergoing hair transplantation, conducting thorough research and choosing the most suitable clinic and method is essential.
