
How Long Does a Hair Transplant Take? (Complete Process)
How long does a hair transplant take? (Complete Process) varies depending on many factors but generally consists of several steps. The process begins with an analysis of the cause of hair loss. A specialist doctor evaluates the patient’s hair structure and level of hair loss to determine the most suitable method. After this, the hair transplant procedure requires selecting a donor area. The donor area is typically the nape of the neck, as hair in this region is more resistant to shedding.
How long does a hair transplant take? (Complete Process) starts with the planning phase. During this stage, the number of grafts to be transplanted and hair density are determined. On the day of the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to ensure a painless operation. Then, hair follicles are carefully extracted from the donor area and implanted into the prepared channels in the target region.
The duration of hair transplantation depends on the patient’s needs and the chosen method. Generally, the procedure lasts between 4 to 8 hours. However, if more grafts are required, this duration may be longer. The post-procedure healing process is another important stage. In the first week, scabs form in the transplanted area, which usually fall off within 10 days. The full growth of new hair takes between 6 months to 1 year.
Complete Hair Transplant Process Steps:
- Analyzing the cause of hair loss.
- Selecting the donor area.
- Planning the number of grafts to be transplanted.
- Administering local anesthesia.
- Extracting hair follicles from the donor area.
- Implanting the hair follicles into the target areas.
- Healing process and achieving a natural hair appearance.
How Many Grafts Are Transplanted in One Session?
One hair transplant session involves transplanting a different number of grafts depending on the patient’s needs. On average, between 2,000 and 4,000 grafts can be transplanted in a single session. This number varies based on the patient’s hair density and the size of the area being treated. A graft consists of multiple hair follicles, meaning each graft can contain more than one hair strand.
The hair transplant session duration also depends on the method used. In FUE procedures, hair follicles are extracted one by one, making the process longer but yielding a more natural result. In DHI, hair follicles are implanted immediately after extraction, allowing for a faster process.
A hair transplant session typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours. If a larger number of grafts need to be transplanted, the process may be divided into multiple sessions. After a hair transplant session, patients must follow specific post-care instructions. For example, the first 10 days require careful handling of the transplanted hair to ensure that the grafts properly adhere to their new location.
What Are the Hair Transplant Methods?
Hair transplant methods have diversified with technological advancements, and each method has its unique advantages. The most commonly preferred hair transplant techniques today are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation).
FUE method involves extracting hair follicles one by one from the donor area using a micro-motor device. The extracted follicles are stored in a special solution before being implanted in the target area. This method is known for leaving minimal scars and producing natural results.
DHI method is a more advanced technique. In this method, hair follicles are directly implanted into the recipient area using a special implanter pen immediately after extraction. The DHI method speeds up the hair transplant process and allows for a denser, more natural-looking result.
Hair transplant methods also include the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) technique. However, since this is an older method, it is not commonly preferred today. In the FUT technique, a strip of skin containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area, and individual grafts are extracted from this strip before being implanted.
Hair Transplant Methods:
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)
- DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)
- FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
How Many Sessions Does a Hair Transplant Take?
Hair transplantation is usually completed in one or multiple sessions, depending on the patient’s needs. On average, 2,000 to 4,000 grafts are transplanted in a single session. If a large area requires treatment, hair transplantation may be divided into multiple sessions.
One hair transplant session lasts between 4 to 8 hours. If a patient needs a higher number of grafts, the process may extend over multiple days. For example, a hair transplant requiring 6,000 grafts may require two sessions.
The time between hair transplant sessions is usually planned based on the patient’s healing process. Donor area recovery typically requires a few months before another session can be performed. This waiting period ensures that new hair follicles are transplanted healthily.
Is Hair Transplant Surgery Difficult?
Hair transplant surgery is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure and is perceived as an easy process by most patients. Local anesthesia ensures that the operation is pain-free. However, some patients may experience mild swelling and sensitivity after the procedure, which can be uncomfortable.
The most critical factor in a hair transplant operation is that it is performed by an expert team. The devices and methods used during the procedure directly impact its success. After a hair transplant operation, following the provided care instructions is essential to prevent damage to the newly implanted hair follicles.
During the post-operative healing process, patients must protect their scalp from impacts and follow the prescribed care routine. For the first few days, proper sleeping positions and avoiding heavy physical activity are crucial. At Ge Hair Clinic, we ensure you go through this process comfortably by eliminating any potential difficulties.