The Hair Transplant Procedure

At the Hair Doctor Sydney clinic, we use the most up-to-date hair transplantation methods and technologies to create a more even distribution of hair follicles across the scalp. With a hair transplant, patients achieve a lasting, noticeable increase in volume in the balding area and gain more confidence in their appearance.

Therefore, if you are experiencing hair loss in certain areas, whether due to genetics, hormones, medical conditions, or the natural ageing process, Dr Mirabelle and her team can help you reach your hair restoration goals. Book your consultation to find out more about what hair transplants can do for you.

What is a hair transplant?

A hair transplant is an elective cosmetic procedure in which hair follicles are taken from one area of the scalp and transplanted to a bald or balding area. The area from which the follicles are taken is known as the “donor site” and the balding area is the “recipient site.” Each hair follicle unit contains between one and three hairs, and some may even contain four or five. They are often removed from the back or sides of the scalp, since these areas usually contain more abundant hair growth. These grafts are then transplanted into the balding sites to create the appearance of greater hair volume.

There are multiple steps to a hair transplant:

Harvesting

Harvesting, also called extraction, is when the hairs are extracted from the donor site and prepared for re-implantation. There are two most common follicle harvesting methods: the FUT method and the FUE method. We can discuss which method will be best for you during your consultation. The number of grafts to be harvested depends on the size and location of both the donor and recipient sites, as well as the extent of the hair loss.

Implantation

Once the grafts have been harvested, they will then be implanted into the recipient sites. This is done strategically, using the most advanced techniques to create a natural look. The follicles will continue their growth cycles as normal, and as a result, patients can enjoy greater hair growth in the balding areas.

Benefits

A hair transplant can yield excellent results for many people. It is often an ideal option for men with androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. However, it can also greatly benefit women concerned about hair loss. A hair transplant offers the following benefits:

• Natural-looking results that are difficult to distinguish from your own natural hair
• Long-term, permanent solution to hair loss in certain areas
• Can be used for both men and women to treat many hair loss conditions
• Minimally invasive procedure which does not require long recovery times
• Can be used in conjunction with other hair restoration treatments, such as medication
• A more youthful appearance and improved self-confidence

It is important to note that hair transplants are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it is important to have realistic expectations. You should discuss any concerns you may have with a professional before undergoing the procedure.

Ideal candidates

Ideal candidates for a hair transplant are generally individuals who have:

• Stable hair loss, meaning their rate of hair loss is unlikely to change in the future
• Adequate donor hair, usually at the back or sides of the scalp
• Realistic expectations of the end result
• Good overall health, to minimise the risk of complications

Hair transplants may not be suitable for people with medical conditions. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to consult with a specialist such as Dr Mirabelle who can evaluate your individual case and provide personalised advice.

What to expect

Once you have spoken to Dr Mirabelle about the details of your procedure, and have a personalised treatment plan, we can proceed with your hair transplant. The exact details will be different for every patient, based on their needs, preferences, goals, and the techniques required.

The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area of the scalp where the hair follicles will be removed. This means you should not feel any pain or discomfort. If the FUE method is used, Dr Mirabelle will begin removing the hair follicles one by one using a specialised hair transplantation device. The device makes minute incisions around each hair follicle, allowing for easy extraction and minimal recovery time afterwards.

Each harvested follicle will then be implanted into the balding site. This is done with careful precision to ensure a natural-looking result. Afterwards, you will need to follow instructions on how to care for your scalp to minimise risks and encourage an optimal outcome, such as using irritant-free hair products and avoiding direct sun exposure. As the scalp heals, the hairs will begin their new growth, giving you more volume and fullness.