During a hair transplant procedure, hair follicles are typically taken from a donor area, which is usually located on the back or sides of the scalp, where hair is genetically resistant to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that causes hair loss. These donor follicles are then transplanted into the recipient area, which is where the patient is experiencing hair loss or thinning.
What happens to the original hair in the recipient area depends on the specific technique used in the hair transplant:
- FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) – A strip of scalp containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area. The remaining scalp is then stitched or stapled back together. The original hair in the recipient area is not removed; instead, the transplanted follicles are inserted among the existing hair. The original hair in the recipient area may shed temporarily after the procedure due to the shock of the transplant, but it should start regrowing within a few months.
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) – Individual hair follicles are extracted one by one from the donor area using tiny punches or instruments. The original hair in the recipient area remains intact, and the transplanted follicles are inserted into the spaces between the existing hair. Like with FUT, the original hair in the recipient area may experience temporary shock loss but should eventually regrow.
In both FUT and FUE procedures, the goal is to enhance the density of hair in the recipient area by adding new, healthy hair follicles. The original hair in the recipient area should continue to grow and blend in with the transplanted hair, creating a more natural and fuller appearance over time.
Follow post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of any complications. Hair transplant results vary from person to person, and it may take several months to a year or more for the full outcome to become apparent as the transplanted hair gradually grows and matures.
