November 2, 2018
Follicular unit extraction (FUE) is the most advanced, minimally-invasive method for hair restoration on the market today, boasting a 92-98% success rate. FUE uses singular healthy hair follicles from a "donor site" of the patient's head to replace their hair to grow back where it was lost.
People considering hair transplants such as the FUE procedure are often concerned with the side-effects and safety of the procedure. The FUE method is generally safer and more successful than hair plugs and strip/linear harvesting techniques. However, it is important to note that the FUE method is indeed a surgical procedure and, as such, poses a few risks.
But don't worry; there are some things patients can do to decrease risks involved with FUE hair transplants. Patients often become less concerned when they know what to expect, so in this article, we will outline what to expect after your procedure and tell you three things you can do to decrease your risks.
What to expect after your FUE transplant
NeoGraft FUE hair transplants don't leave behind large scars and have faster recovery times than the strip method. After your surgery, it's normal for your scalp to be sensitive, though we've found most patients are able to resume their regular responsibilities with the aid of over-the-counter pain medications within 48 hours.
The most common side-effects from a hair transplant are postoperative inflammation and infections; which are quite rare. Other side-effects include:
- Bleeding
- Itching
- Swelling of the scalp
- Numbness of the treated area
- "Shock loss," a temporary loss of new hair
Typically, these side effects are minor and clear up quickly after the procedure. Your physician will prescribe antibiotics or compresses to minimize inflammation or postoperative discomfort.
How to ensure your hair transplant will be safe
You can decrease your risks by ensuring you meet all of the following criteria:
You need to be a good candidate for a hair transplant
Not everyone is a good match for NeoGraft FUE hair transplants. If you aren't a good candidate, the procedure will not work as it is supposed to.
Usually, a good candidate is a man with male pattern baldness or thinning hair who has a healthy donor site. There are nuances that determine who will make a good candidate and who will not, so it is best to schedule a consultation with your doctor before the procedure. Remember, a qualified, experienced doctor will not overlook this step, and most doctors already require a consultation before the procedure.
You need an experienced doctor
When you choose a doctor for your hair transplant, choose a doctor who has plenty of experience and a proven success record. An inexperienced doctor may not be able to determine if you are a good candidate for the transplant, leading to potential complications such as over-harvesting.
At the Hair Center at Helendale, our hair transplant technicians have over twenty years of collective experience, and there will be two technicians in the surgery room at all times to assist Dr. Arthur. The team will handle your follicles as little as possible to ensure procedure success while reducing the risk of complications.
Dr. Arthur brought Neograft technology to Rochester, NY several years ago and has extremely happy patients.
You need to care for your scalp properly after the transplant
After your hair transplant, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to reduce the risk of discomfort and side-effects such as infection. You will need to wear bandages over your scalp for a few days and you may need to take an anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, or pain medication, as prescribed by your doctor.
Want to know more?
It's imperative you talk to your physician before undergoing hair transplant surgery, especially if you're concerned about the risks involved. At the Hair Center at Helendale, our experienced doctor and staff are available to give you the information you need to make an informed decision of whether a hair transplant is right for you.
If you are interested in learning more about FUE hair transplants, or if you want to know if you are a candidate for this highly successful hair restoration technique, schedule a consultation.