Synthetic Hair Transplant: Comprehensive Guide

While artificial hair transplants may appear like a promising solution for those who have no other choice, it’s crucial to recognize that if they choose to have the procedure, they will also be responsible for all the hazards involved.

Synthetic hair transplants replaced traditional ones in the late 1970s. In this article, we discussed a surgical treatment that involves transplanting individual hair strands, not wigs or other hair accessories.

Let’s look at this amazing process, its components, and its sequential steps.

What Is The Significance Of A Synthetic Hair Transplant?

While traditional hair transplant techniques involve using a patient’s own hair follicles, synthetic hair transplant is an alternative option that offers several advantages in certain situations.

In this section we will explore the significance of synthetic hair transplants as a viable option for extreme baldness where conventional techniques are impossible.

A viable option for extreme baldness

Synthetic hair transplant is an effective alternative for individuals with extreme baldness or hair loss, where traditional hair transplant techniques may not be possible due to the lack of donor’s hair.

In such cases, synthetic hair transplant provides an option for restoring a full head of hair without a donor site.

Can be sought at any time during your life

Unlike traditional hair transplant procedures that require a certain amount of hair growth, synthetic hair transplants can be performed at any time during a patient’s life, making it a convenient option for those who want to restore their hair at any age.

Outpatient procedure

A synthetic hair transplant is an outpatient procedure that does not require the patient to take leave from work or their daily routine. The procedure typically takes a few hours to complete, and the patient can go home on the same day.

No substantial post-operative procedure

Unlike traditional hair transplant procedures, synthetic hair transplant requires minimal post-operative care. Routine cleaning and follow-up appointments are necessary, but the patient does not have to undergo any substantial post-operative process.

Hair can be seen immediately

One significant advantage of synthetic hair transplant is that the results are visible immediately after the procedure. The patient can see a full head of hair right away, without waiting for the transplanted hair to grow.

Hair does not turn grey or white

Synthetic hair does not turn grey or white as a patient ages, unlike natural hair. It means that the patient can enjoy a full head of hair without worrying about the effects of aging.

Comparatively less expensive

Synthetic hair transplant is generally less expensive than traditional hair transplant procedures. The cost varies depending on the number of hair strands required, but overall, it is a cost-effective option for those looking to restore their hair.

Various colors and types

Synthetic hair transplant offers a range of colors and types to suit any hair texture, making it a versatile option for those looking to restore their hair. 

This allows patients to choose a hair color and texture that matches their natural hair or to experiment with different looks.

Eligible Candidate For Artificial/Synthetic Hair Implant Procedure?

Synthetic hair transplantation is a procedure that involves the implantation of synthetic hair into the scalp to restore hair growth. It is an option for individuals who have limited donor areas, suffer from extremely low-density hair, or are completely bald.

We will discuss the eligibility criteria for synthetic hair transplants. Eligibility Criteria for Synthetic Hair Transplant:

Limited donor area or exhausted donor area

If an individual has limited donor areas or has already undergone FUT or FUE transplant and has exhausted their donor area, then they may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

Want instant results

Individuals who do not want to wait for a few months for the hair to grow after FUT or FUE transplant may opt for synthetic hair transplantation. Synthetic hair transplantation offers instant results.

Good health and scalp health

An individual must be in good overall health and have good scalp health to be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

No sensitivity or medical conditions

Individuals who do not suffer from sensitive skin or scalp problems, HIV, hepatitis, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, heart problems, autoimmune diseases, hypertension, or high blood pressure, and are not taking blood thinners or beta-blockers may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

Extremely low-density hair or completely bald

Individuals who suffer from extremely low-density hair on the scalp or are completely bald may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

Pass the tolerance test

Individuals who pass the tolerance test with no sensitivity to synthetic hair may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

Prepared to follow aftercare guidelines

Individuals who are prepared to follow the proper scalp aftercare and hygiene guidelines may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

Need for touch-ups

Individuals who are willing to undergo touch-ups to maintain the hair may be eligible for synthetic hair transplantation.

How Is The Synthetic Hair Implant Procedure Performed?

The procedure of synthetic hair transplant begins with a fiber compatibility test to ensure that the patient is not allergic to synthetic hair. The process involves inserting 100 artificial hairs in the first month, which are monitored for nearly a month for any allergic reactions.

Once there are no signs of any allergic reactions, the full procedure is performed. Patients are required to visit the clinic every month for follow-ups and scalp cleaning, which involves removing sebum plugs and preventing infection, inflammation, and even cysts. 

It is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups to ensure the success of the synthetic hair transplant procedure.

The synthetic hair transplant procedure involves several steps, which are as follows:

• The first step is to anesthetize the scalp with local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort or pain during the procedure.

• Next, the doctor uses an automatic hair implant device to implant each hair strand into the scalp. The device inserts and hooks the knot at the end of each strand inside the scalp fascia. 

• The process is done one by one until the desired hair density is achieved. The implantation process continues until the doctor reaches the appropriate hair density. This may take several hours to complete, depending on the extent of the hair loss.

• Once the implantation is complete, the doctor will cleanse the scalp with a disinfectant to prevent any infections. It is essential to keep the scalp clean and free from infection during the recovery period.

How Many Biofibers Of Artificial Hair Can Be Implanted In A Single Session?

During a hair transplant session, synthetic hair can be transplanted under the effect of local anesthesia. The number of synthetic hairs that can be transplanted in a session varies depending on the duration of the procedure.

Typically, it takes around 2 hours to transplant 500 synthetic hairs and 3 hours to transplant 1000 synthetic hairs. Patients can return to their routine on the same day after the procedure. 

The maximum number of synthetic hairs that can be transplanted in a single session is up to 2000 hairs.

How Long Will It Take To Recover From An Artificial/Synthetic Hair Implant Procedure? 

Recovery from a synthetic hair transplant is relatively easy, with no significant downtime. Patients can resume their normal lifestyle immediately after the procedure.

There may be some minor swelling and redness in the treated area, which will gradually subside over the next few days. Patients are advised to avoid vigorous exercise and strenuous activities for the first few days after the procedure to minimize the risk of dislodging the newly transplanted hair follicles. 

The surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Are There Any Pre And Post-Treatment Guidelines For Artificial/Synthetic Hair Implants? 

Before undergoing a synthetic hair transplant, a thorough discussion of medical history, general physical examination, and some medical tests are required.

The doctor may prescribe certain products that need to be used regularly to make your scalp suitable for hair implantation. It is important to follow the post-treatment guidelines provided by the clinic, which include not using regular hair products such as gels, hair dyes, etc. 

The implanted hair should be washed with a gentle shampoo, and a soft brush should be used to comb it. It is also important to cleanse your scalp regularly, but the scalp should be treated very gently. 

Medications and antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor to prevent infection. Lastly, hair maneuvers and scratching should be avoided to prevent damage to the implanted hair. 

By following these guidelines, the best possible results can be achieved after a synthetic hair transplant.

What Is The Cost Of Artificial/Synthetic Hair Implantation In India? 

The cost of a synthetic hair transplant can vary depending on various factors. On average, it can range from Rs.85 to Rs.120 per strand. Factors such as the number of strands required, the complexity of the procedure, the location of the clinic, and the experience of the surgeon can influence the cost.

Are The Results Of Artificial/Synthetic Hair Implantation Permanent? 

The results of synthetic hair transplants are not permanent and reimplants are needed every year to maintain the desired level of hair growth.

The longevity of the synthetic hair strands can vary depending on the individual’s scalp condition and how well they follow the post-transplant care instructions. 

In some cases, the synthetic hair may last up to two years, but it is not uncommon for patients to require reimplants every year. 

It is essential to consult with a hair transplant specialist to understand the potential outcomes of synthetic hair transplants and whether it is a suitable option for the individual’s specific hair loss condition.

What Is Artificial Hair Fibres?

Artificial hair fibers are synthetically derived monomers of highly purified nylon material that are used in an aesthetic medicine procedure to improve hair thickening. 

These fibers are ideal when an immediate aesthetic result is required and can be customized to match any color, length (ranging from 15 to 45 cm), and shape (straight, wavy, or curly) to match the natural hair of the individual. 

While synthetic hair fibers are undetectable to natural hair, they do run the risk of rejection in some cases. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a hair transplant doctor to determine if artificial hair fibers are a suitable option for the individual.

Durability Of Artificial Hair Fibers

Artificial hair fibers require utmost care and cleaning during the initial stage for at least seven days as they are fragile and delicate. 

It is important to follow up regularly with cleaning and removal of crusts to ensure the longevity of the artificial hair fibers, which is typically two to three years. 

Further implant sessions are typically performed after three to four weeks on the same area of the scalp and after one to two weeks on a different area. Therefore, maintenance and follow-up are crucial for the durability of artificial hair fibers.

How To Take Care Of Synthetic Hair

After an artificial hair fiber implant, immediate post-implant treatment includes local and general antibiotic treatment for 5-6 days. During this time, hair should be handled with care, avoiding abrupt maneuvers, as complete adhesion of hair requires 20-30 days.

It’s important to note that artificial hair fibers never grow in length or number, and the selected length of fiber is chosen according to the client’s requirements. 

Regular washing and combing can be started from the 7th day onwards, which can help maintain the artificial hair fibers in good condition.

Is Repeated Biofibre Implantation Harmful?

Repeated synthetic hair transplant can also be harmful, as the synthetic materials used may cause irritation, inflammation, or infection of the scalp. 

While it can help refill the lost fibers and maintain the outlook, it can also lead to mild swelling in the forehead which usually goes away within 3-4 days. As synthetic hair implant lasts 8-10 years, a second procedure may be needed.

However, repeated synthetic hair transplants may cause more severe side effects, such as hair breakage, scalp damage, or even permanent hair loss, and therefore should be avoided. 

It is always advisable to consult with a medical professional before considering any hair transplant procedure.

Is An Artificial Hair Transplant Safe?

Synthetic hair transplant, which involves the implantation of foreign bodies into the scalp, is considered safe. While people may sometimes confuse it with hair transplantation methods used in the 80s, synthetic hair transplant produces good results.

It’s important to follow the aftercare advice provided by the doctor, which may include taking a 7-day course of antibiotics after the surgery. While there are some potential side effects, such as infection, the success rate for synthetic hair transplants is generally high, with 95-98% of implants being successful. 

Only 2% of cases experience infection, which can be managed with proper care and attention.

Artificial Vs Real Hair Transplants

Hair transplantation is a cosmetic procedure that involves moving hair from one part of the body to another. While traditional hair transplant uses real hair, synthetic hair implant has emerged as an alternative solution.

Here, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two methods, and which one may be the right choice for you.

Normal Hair Transplant

• Natural hair will perfectly match your existing hair, providing a seamless and realistic result.
• You will not need regular top-up treatments as the transplanted hair will continue to grow and shed like your natural hair.

Synthetic Hair Transplant

• You can bleach or use permanent chemical treatments on synthetic hairs, providing more versatility in styling.
• You may need a large number of implants and multiple sessions as synthetic hairs typically come in smaller units.
• If you cut the fibers, they won’t grow back, so you’ll need to stick with the same hairstyle.
• Artificial hair won’t age in the same way as natural hair, so you may see color and texture differences as you age.

The Difference Between A Hair Transplant And A Hair Implant

Although many people might initially confuse these, they are very different. If you’re also thinking about getting a transplant or an implant, you need to be well aware of what each one requires. We discuss the key variations between the two in the sections below.

Hair Transplant

A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of hair follicles from denser areas of the scalp, known as the donor zone, which are then implanted into areas with less hair, known as the recipient zone. 

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia by highly trained doctors. Since the hair follicles come from the same person, there is no risk of rejection. However, it may take six to eight months for the transplanted hair to grow and become fully visible.

Hair Implant

Hair implantation involves the placement of artificial hair into already dead follicles on the scalp. The results of hair implantation are immediately visible, and hair does not need to be taken from the donor area.

 However, hair implants have a higher risk of being rejected by the body compared to hair transplants. Additionally, there is a risk of scalp infections with this procedure. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the risks and benefits of hair implantation before undergoing the procedure.

Does An Artificial Hair Transplant Give You Natural Looks?

Artificial hair transplant techniques can provide a relatively acceptable look, but it is important to note that this appearance cannot be preserved later.

Unlike natural hair, artificial hair is not a part of the human organism, which can give it a dull appearance. Additionally, the process requires the transplantation of additional hair strands, which can be a costly procedure. 

There are also concerns about the long-term cost-effectiveness of artificial hair transplant methods. Overall, while an artificial hair transplant can provide some improvement in appearance, it is crucial to consider all of the potential drawbacks and limitations before deciding on this option.

Additional Complications Of Synthetic Hair Transplant

Synthetic hair transplant has been known to have several additional complications. The thin dermal tissue in the temples and low frontal hairline areas can cause difficulty inserting synthetic hair fibers, leading to a higher risk of apparent inflammation and scar formation.

Moreover, 15-20% of the transplanted artificial hair fibers may fall out every year, and the estimated life span of synthetic hair is around 8 to 10 years. Heat and chemicals can cause damage to the synthetic hair strands, and the insertion process can lead to permanent scalp damage. 

All these factors should be taken into consideration while considering synthetic hair transplant as a hair restoration option.

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