A thorough examination and obtaning a detailed history of the patient is essential. In the patient history chronic diseases, regularly used medicine, allergy, and family history are important features. Family history may give hint to the future hair loss intensity and configuration. This shall be considered during the hair transplantation planning. During physical examination the patient’s scalp is inspected to determine the transplantation region( the bald-hairless-thin haired area) and the donor region( the active healthy hair region which the hair follicules will be extracted). The region to which the transplantation will be performed should be determined in a fashion so that the shape and borders of the chosen area is proportional, compatible with the shape of the face and the head to give a natural look. The procedure must be performed in a sterile hospital environment by an experienced physician and team to maximize the outcome and minimize the possiblities of any complications.
FUE ( Folliculer Unit Extraction)
The most preffered , well-known and used method for hair transplantation worldwide is FUE. It is a method being used since 1980’ies which as a result has been experinced and been perfected . Folliculer unit extraction is a technique that individual hair follicules are extracted one by one from the donor area and then all follicules are planted one by one to the transplatation area. This provides minimum harm to both the donor area and the transplation area.
During follicule extraction period maximum care and attention must be paid in order to have the follicules undamaged and the donor area conserved. This is a crucial time period for the success of the total procedure.
Post-hair transplant period
This period is as crucial as the procedure itself. Information and instructions are provided by the specialist doctor to the patient. During the healing process, medications such as vitamins, minerals, etc. prescribed by the doctor must be used regularly by the patient.
The scalp should not be washed after the operation for 2 days. When washing the scalp for the first time, a special lotion should be applied to the transplant area. Nails should not be used nor circular rubbing movements should be applied to the area as these movements may cause the grafts (hair follicles) to move. The lotion should be applied to the transplant area with vertical and delicate movements. The lotion should be applied to the grafted area for approximately 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, the lotion should be washed off gently with lukewarm water without pressure.
The lotion should also be applied to the donor area in the same manner to improve healing and prevent scabbing. After 5 minutes, the lotion should be removed with gentle movements using lukewarm water without pressure.
Drying should be done gently with light touches. Regular towels should not be used to dry newly transplanted follicles, as this may remove the follicles from their insertion areas. The use of tissues is rather recommended.
With the advice and guidance of the hair transplant specialist; hair should be washed at least once a day for 15 days. After 2-3 weeks, washing should be done at least 2-3 times a week. The order of hair washing during the first 15 days after the procedure is extremely important for the healing process.
