- The traditional form of transplanting hair is called strip incisions. In this approach, a surgeon removes strips of skin from a healthy "donor" area of the scalp, takes out the hair follicles, and implants them on the "recipient" area. An electric punch that looks like a small drill makes round grafts that each contain as many as 20 hair follicles. This technique can be quite painful and leave significant scarring.
- A method similar to strip incisions is now available, but it is improved with micro-grafting in which the strip is divided into small grafts of only three to four hairs. This advanced form of follicular unit extraction achieves better results. The scalp heals more quickly. There is no scarring and less pain or discomfort. In addition, the patient does not need to be stitched or bandaged. The final look is also more natural and pleasing.
- In general, hair transplant surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure. Complications may arise in rare situations, but they are not serious and can be resolved easily. Risks include infection, scarring, cysts, pigmentation changes and a swollen forehead or eyes.
- Using laser technology for hair grafting has been feasible since 1992, yet most doctors are more supportive of other approaches. Surgeons who continue to use the laser for the procedure argue that there is less bleeding and thus faster healing. Opponents state that fewer grafts may grow due to this reduced amount of blood. In their book, "Hair Transplantion," Drs. Walter P. Unger and Ronald Shapiro state that when making slits with the laser, "we are close to an unacceptable width of thermal damage." The concern is that there will be less growth of hair with 1mm or less between sites.
- Surgeons are pleased that modern hair transplants are safer and with better results. In fact, the large-plug technique of the 1980s resulted in such an unnatural "corn row" appearance that many present-day doctors are being requested to redo these hair transplant disasters. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of patients are requesting repair rather than new work.
- Dr. William R. Rassman, a hair transplant specialist, says that the number of these procedures will continue to increase in the future as the "quality becomes more uniform from doctor to doctor." Prices will also go down, as more transplants are completed. In addition, new technology will enhance the surgical work and further accelerate the growth of the industry.
