FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do hair transplants really work?

Yes. The transplanted hair is removed from the donor area (usually the back or sides), under local anaesthetic, where the hair follicles are not genetically determined to shut down and transferred to the recipient site (usually the frontal area, top or crown) where the follicles are genetically determined to shut down. The transplanted follicles carry their own genetic inheritance and will grow wherever they are planted and for life.

Do transplants look more natural than they used to?

Absolutely. Until a few years ago hair transplants were done with a small number of 4mm punch grafts containing 15 to 20 hairs. This gave a 'tufted' or 'dolls head' appearance. This system is now obsolete. Now with the extraordinarily rapid development of the science, follicles can be transplanted with one, two or three hairs. The one hair follicles form the frontline. The grafts are trimmed meticulously under stereoscopic microscope. This system called Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) gives an extremely natural result.

Can I go to work the following day?

This depends on the individual and the type of work they do. Generally we recommend a few days rest. However some patients are happy to return to work immediately. You should discuss this with Dr. Kiely.

Does it hurt?

Most people are surprised at how comfortable the procedure is. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic which means there is no pain during the procedure. The patient watches a video / DVD, television or reads a book. The patient is given pain killers for the following day but many patients do not need to use them.

How long does it take?

In the hands of a very experienced doctor and medical team 1,000 grafts will be transplanted in approximately 4 hours. This avoids patient fatigue. The total length of time spent at the clinic is about six hours

What type of preparation is required prior to the procedure?

Pre-operative, post operative instructions and a consent form will be issued to each patient prior to surgery. See also The Procedure.

How long does the transplanted hair take to grow?

Usually the hair (not the follicles) that is transplanted falls out in the first 2 weeks. This is a normal temporary reaction while the follicle goes into a dormant phase. The new hair grows between three and five months after initial surgery, at a rate of a half inch per month and thereafter for life. The waiting period may be difficult and patients who are anxious may often call during this time to question results. However the waiting or dormant phase is quite normal. In some cases the hair may grow immediately.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on:
1. The nature of the hair loss in area to be covered
2. The density of the donor hair.
3. The intrinsic characteristics of the hair.
Often one session is all that is needed. But the patient may require more.

If I suffer from depression will this procedure help me?

Hair Transplantation is not a cure for depression. It may make you feel better about your appearance but is not a cure for clinical depression. If you suffer from clinical depression contact your General Practitioner immediately.

What should I do If I am on tablets or suffer from illness?

Tell the clinic doctor as soon as possible and disclose it on your medical form. This may not preclude you from transplant but it is essential that the surgeon performing the transplant knows.