The possibilities in the hair transplant industry are enormous because there are clinics in every city and even every village. There are those who, in one way or another, struggle with hair issues. There is a vast scope now that everyone is aware of the solution.
The more recent methods of hair transplant surgery and the anticipated global potential for the future have been covered in this article.
Two Most Popular Techniques Of Hair Transplant Surgery
The “strip method,” also known as FUT hair transplant, includes stereo-microscopic dissection to remove a thin layer of hair shafts from the donor region.
After that, the wound is sutured to stop further damage. Divided into individual pieces, the transplanted grafts from the removed follicles are then inserted into the recipient location.
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplantation is a popular technique for hair repair. In this procedure, a single follicular unit is randomly removed from the donor area, usually the sides or back of the scalp, using tiny circular incisions.
Hair transplantation might be less invasive, more profitable, and safer with this technology.
Current Popular Methods Of Hair Transplant Surgery
NeoGraft, Robotic FUE, and Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) are three popular methods of hair transplantation. Each technique has its own advantages and considerations, making it essential for individuals to consult with a skilled surgeon to determine the most suitable method for their specific needs.
NeoGraft
NeoGraft is a popular method of hair transplantation known for its effectiveness and advanced techniques. It is a semi-automated version of Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and is considered more advanced than other FUE techniques.
The procedure begins with the application of a local anesthetic to the scalp. Hair follicles are then extracted using a wand that utilizes suction. Unlike traditional methods, NeoGraft does not require the surgeon to make incisions for new hair follicles. Instead, a modern tool makes the incisions and implants the grafts simultaneously using pneumonic pressure.
Dressings are applied to the donor and implantation sites to manage bleeding. The healing process typically takes about a week, and most individuals can resume their regular routines within two weeks.
NeoGraft’s automation helps reduce the chances of surgical complications and minimize damage to hair follicles.
Robotic FUE
Robotic FUE is another popular method used in contemporary hair transplant surgery. It offers precise and efficient removal of follicular units with the help of a robot.
The procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, and it requires an experienced team. Robotic FUE is a minimally invasive technique that contributes to natural-looking transplanted hair.
It should be noted that the robot does not replace the importance of appropriate candidate selection, hairline design, and the surgeon’s judgment regarding the optimal placement of transplanted hair for both short- and long-term results.
The robotic approach is considered a crucial tool for hair transplant surgeons in enhancing the overall procedure.
Direct hair implementation (DHI)
Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) is a technique that focuses on the survival rate of harvested grafts during hair transplantation. Several factors, such as hydration maintenance, cold temperature, and reduced mechanical handling, contribute to the success of this method.
DHI is a variation of the existing Follicular Unit Extraction technique, where follicular unit grafts are implanted immediately after being harvested. Unlike traditional methods that use steel or sapphire blades for implantation, DHI utilizes a specialized implant pen.
This pen allows for direct implantation of the hair grafts, providing precise control and placement during the procedure.
The Future Of Hair Restoration Method
The future of hair transplant surgery lies in stem cell technology. Stem cell hair transplants involve harvesting a small skin sample from which hair follicles are extracted.
These follicles are then replicated in a laboratory and implanted back into the scalp where hair loss has occurred. This process allows hair to grow in both the donor and recipient areas.
Stem cells have the remarkable ability to develop into various types of cells. They are unspecialized cells that can divide and renew themselves, either remaining as stem cells or differentiating into other cell types.
The procedure begins with a punch biopsy to extract stem cells from the individual. A circular blade is rotated into the skin, removing a cylindrical sample of tissue.
The stem cells are then separated from the tissue using a centrifuge and injected back into the scalp where hair loss has occurred. The specific techniques employed may vary slightly.
An updated process is used to extract stem cells from fat so that they can be injected into the scalp. This procedure typically takes around three hours. However, it’s important to note that the outcome of the procedure cannot be guaranteed, and results may vary from person to person.
Research suggests that stem cell hair transplants can be effective in treating various hair loss conditions, including male androgenetic alopecia and cicatricial alopecia, where hair follicles are replaced with scar tissue.
Some expected side effects of the procedure include pain, which should subside within a week, and scarring at the fat extraction site. However, there is limited information available regarding other possible side effects.
Risks associated with the procedure include bleeding, infection, and potential damage to nerves or arteries near the sample and injection sites.
Despite the ongoing research, stem cell hair transplants show promising results. An Italian study reported a 29% increase in hair density 23 weeks after the last treatment.
The cost of stem cell hair transplants has not been determined yet, as they are still in the research stage. Estimated fee range from approximately $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the type and extent of hair loss being treated.
Cell treatment aims to address the issue of donor shortage. Studies have shown that dermal papillae and connective tissue sheath cells possess the ability to generate hair follicles. However, the challenge lies in developing a viable culturing system to apply these concepts to human cells in vivo.
Growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), play a crucial role in promoting hair growth.
VEGF, in particular, has been found to be essential for hair biology and angiogenesis, influencing hair size. Improved follicle vascularization has been linked to enhanced hair development and size.
Due to its accessibility, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) obtained from peripheral blood is also frequently employed. PRP can be easily made after centrifuging patient blood, and injection techniques are comparable to mesotherapy.
Because there was no research on PRP’s efficacy for treating hair loss in the beginning, and many doctors criticized its usage. However, the situation has changed after numerous favorable PRP efficacy reports.
There is presently no established protocol for PRP preparation, PRP quality standards, or injection intervals.
