| Dr. Edwin S. Epstein is a Diplomat of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Hair transplant.
Q. How long does a hair transplant procedure take?
Each step of the procedure is performed under magnification and is very tedious and precise. The average procedure takes several hours and the better part of the day. However, we can perform in a single session, what took 2-3 procedures 10 years ago. This means more and thicker hair sooner.
Q. Will hair transplants ever fall out?
In men most hair loss is genetic, due to the effects of the hormone DHT. The hair from the permanent donor area in the back of the head is genetically different and will last a lifetime. Female pattern hair loss is less understood but the transplanted hair will last as well.
Q. Are the clients kept conscious during the procedure?
The procedures are performed under local anesthesia, so patients are awake, but feel very little. Sometimes we will use a mild sedative to reduce anxiety. Patients are encouraged to watch TV or movies during the procedure; snacks, juice, and lunch is also available.
Q. When will the newly transplanted hair start to grow?
The hairs are cut short, the length of beard stubble, and most will separate from the root ( hair bulb), and shed about 2-3 weeks after the procedure. Because the hair cycle is 3 months, the new hair will begin to break through the skin and become visible after about 2.5-3 months.
Q. When can the clients resume normal activities like washing the hair, going in the sun, etc.
Because no bandages are used, care must be taken the first 2-3 days in terms of hair washing. We limit strenuous activity for 7 days, but most patients can return to work within 24 hours. We have a post operative protocol using saline spray and medicated pads to reduce scabbing. Sun exposure on the scalp should be avoided for several weeks.
Q. Are there any simple outpatient procedures available?
Hair transplantation is a simple outpatient procedure with no major side effects or complications when performed by an experienced surgeon and team. Creating a new hairline is an artistic process based on the experience of the surgeon. A restored hairline looks completely natural because it is not a line at all, but a zone of hair that transitions from fine, thin, solitary hairs at the front to thicker, denser hair the further back you go on the head. |
