In France, about 25 million people are affected by hair loss (alopecia), all ages. The earlier the fall begins, the faster it will evolve, very often with psychological repercussions. To permanently remedy this aesthetic problem, some people choose to invest in a hair transplant (hair implants) which consists of using her own hair (taken from the back of the scalp) and to reimplant them on the areas to be densified.
Hair implants and FUT, FUE, DHI techniques, what are they?
The principle of hair transplantation (hair implants) is as follows: hair is taken from the area of the Hippocratic crown at the back of the head (where it never falls out) to be implanted forward, in the region of the forehead and tonsure. There are three different grafting techniques: the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), the fue (Follicular Unit Extraction) ainsi que la DHI (Direct Hair Implantation).
During a hair transplant FUT, the surgeon must first extract a scalp strip (at the level of the occiput) which he then cuts into a micro or mini-graft. During a FUE hair transplant, the practitioner extract the grafts one by one, using an extraction tool (micro-punch) measuring between 0.8 and 2 millimeters in diameter depending on the practitioner. In both cases, the hair follicles are re-implanted using forceps in receiving holes, with a scalpel on the needy area (s). The major difference between FUT and FUE is that the first method leaves a linear scar on the back of the skull. The second, for its part, will be more or less invisible on this area (depending on the size of the extraction tools chosen). None of these methods are standardized. They can therefore vary depending on the expert chosen, who will use more or less fine, automated or robotic extraction tools. The act can be partially or totally delegated to the assistants of the expert doctor.
Finally, the DHI method (the most recent) is an evolution of the FUE. It is codified and standardized to ensure optimal results for each intervention. The extraction is done carefully using a micro punch to leave no scar on the sample area. Implantation does not require a receiving hole prior to the scalpel, through the use of a proprietary hair injection pen. It allows precise control of the depth, angle and direction of the implanted follicles. This “haute couture” method is performed by the expert doctor, from the first follicle extracted to the last follicle implanted. Today it is about the most efficient technique on the market. It provides the best regrowth rate and the best hair density.
Hair implants and grafting: for whom?
Androgenetic alopecia (more commonly called “baldness”) represented 80% of alopecia. In men, it manifests itself by the progressive receding of the edge of the hair (at the top of the forehead) and continues over the entire top of the head. In women, baldness does not have the same appearance: it manifests itself by increasingly thinning hair at the level of the styling line. There is also traction alopecia (caused by flat buns, tight braids repeatedly …): in these three cases, the hair transplant will be effective.
On the other hand, other types of alopecia (such as diffuse alopecia, alopecia areata …) are not a good indication for hair transplantation. Why ? Quite simply because the hair would continue to fall out, even after the procedure. “There are, however, treatments to reduce hair loss and stimulate regrowth”, says Dr Sarah Fadli.
Hair implants: how long does the procedure last? Is it painful?
The duration of the intervention varies depending on the case to be treated. “If it is a question of treating a small area, the intervention can take 3 to 4 hours. On the other hand, when treating bald patients for example, it is possible to perform a transplant over 2 days “eexplains the professional. The intervention turns out painless thanks to injections of local anesthesia (xylocaine) as at the dentist.
Hair implants: what results can we expect?
The result of a hair transplant is considered definitive after one year. “The first regrowth starts in the third month” specifies the expert. We follow patients throughout this period to reassure them about the regrowth process, because a year can sometimes seem long, but the results are always there ” she continues. Once grafted, “newly implanted” follicles continue to produce hair for life “since they were taken from the area of the Hippocratic crown, an area which is not affected by alopecia” she declares. Result: denser, fuller hair, definitely!
Hair implants: a price range?
Prices vary between € 3,500 and € 15,000 depending on the patient’s needs and the technique used. The greater the number of grafts implanted, the higher the price will obviously be. At Maison Lutétia Paris (which practices the DHI method exclusively), it takes between € 3,900 for the smallest operation and up to € 11,900 for operations requiring a larger implantation of grafts over 2 days.
Thanks to Sarah Fadli (aesthetic doctor and expert in hair transplant at the Maison Lutetia Paris) for his explanations.
Source : femmeactuelle.fr
