Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions. If you would like to ask a question or find out more information please call us on +44 (0) 207 770 6538.
Why am I losing my hair and what can I do about it?
The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women is down to genetics, however there are many other causes. The key to effective treatment of hair loss is in the diagnosis. Book in for a consultation with Mr D’Souza to go through all your treatment options.
What are my treatment options?
Broadly speaking you can split the treatment options in to surgical and non-surgical. Most often though the best aesthetic result will be achieved through a combination of both methods.
Is FUE better than FUT?
No. FUE is certainly a newer technique, but both surgical techniques have advantages and disadvantages. For certain patients one technique will be more suitable than the other which is why it is important that you consult with a surgeon who is skilled in both FUE and FUT.
What is the downtime after surgery?
For both FUT and FUE we recommend being at home for the first 5 days after surgery, the reason being that the grafts are particularly fragile during this time.
Will it be obvious I have had something done when I return to work?
It is normal to have some redness and swelling after surgery, this should have gone by day 5-6 post-op.There will also be some crusts in the recipient area and these should have gone by day 10-12 post-op. Most patients return to work after 1 week, with other preferring to take the full 2 weeks off.
Do I need to shave my head for FUE?
The back and sides of the head needs to be taken down to skin i.e. a grade 0 haircut. The rest of the hair can be left as it is, but in certain cases we will recommend you shave the top too. Some patients prefer to go for a shorter hair style a few months before the date of surgery so there is less of a style change when they return to work. Alternatively we can cut your hair for you on the day.
I don’t want to shave my head. I have heard of long-haired / unshaven FUE, is that an option?
For the vast majority of cases long haired / unshaven FUE is not a viable option. If a very small number of grafts need to be obtained then it may be possible. With FUT surgery no shaving is required and for that reason many patients opt for this technique.
I have Afro type hair is FUE still an option?
Afro type hair is often curled beneath the surface which can make FUE very difficult. In certain cases we may start by taking a small number of grafts and evaluating the yield. We will then have an idea about whether FUE is still an option or if FUT might be a better choice.
Am I too young for a hair transplant?
When it comes to hair transplant surgery your age does not necessarily rule you out or in fact rule you in! Many factors are taken in to account before we recommend your treatment plan.
When will the new hair come through?
In most cases new hair should start to come through 3-4 months after the procedure. A good aesthetic result can be seen by 12 months post-op and the final result will be seen at 18 months post-op. Follow up appointments are at 6,12 and 18 months to check on your progress.
How do I look after my new hair?
Once your new hair has come through it does not need any special treatment. Remember we have simply moved hair from one place to another so care for it as normal.
I have had a previous hair transplant elsewhere can I have another hair transplant?
In the vast majority of cases more than one transplant is possible, it will depend on the number of grafts and the type of surgery previously performed. We regularly perform both FUE and FUT so are very familiar with both techniques.
I have had a hair transplant elsewhere and I am not happy with the result. Is there anything which can be done?
We are often asked to repair poorly performed hair transplant surgery and in virtually all cases there will be something which can be done to improve the aesthetic appearance. If you are concerned and would like an opinion on how to best rectify the situation come in for a no obligation consultation with our surgeon Mr D’Souza.
There are so many clinics to choose from how do I decide which is best for me?
There are more and more clinics popping up over the UK and it can be difficult to know which one might be the right fit for you. The British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery offers some good advice – https://www.bahrs.co.uk/patient-advice/.
