Hair loss is a common occurrence prevalent in older adults, but anyone can experience it, including children. You lose about 50 to 100 hairs every day, which usually goes unnoticed since new hair grows to replace the lost one. However, this does not always happen. When new hair fails to restore the lost one, you may notice bald patches, a receding hairline, or a widening part. Most hair loss cases are hereditary (androgenic alopecia), often in predictable patterns. Some people prefer to let the hair loss run its course, but others resort to Shreveport hair replacement to prevent further hair loss and restore growth.
What is hair replacement?
Hair replacement or hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves filling bald or thinning sections of the scalp with grafts from body areas with healthy hair. The process may benefit individuals with permanent hair loss due to:
- Androgenic alopecia
- Alopecia areata
- Traumatic injuries or burns
- Thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances
Hair transplant is often performed by healthcare providers specializing in reconstructive procedures (plastic surgeons) or healthcare providers specializing in the skin (dermatologists).
How to prepare for a hair transplant
Like any other surgical procedure, you need to consult with your specialist to establish if you are eligible for surgery and what the process involves. During an initial consultation, your provider discusses various medical conditions, including your physical health, to ensure you are a good candidate for surgery. Individuals with health conditions such as diabetes that impede healing may not be good candidates.
Your surgeon also reviews your medical history from previous surgeries, and some pre-existing medical problems influence certain decisions, including the type of anesthetic you will receive. You will also learn about the risks of possible complications of hair transplant to weight if the procedure is a worthy cause. If you are eligible for surgery, your surgeon may require you to temporarily discontinue the use of medications and supplements with blood-thinning properties as you await the operation.
What to expect after surgery
Most surgeons perform hair transplants on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home on the same day of the procedure. You will have bandages or dressings over your scalp, which you should keep for at least two days. Your scalp may also feel tender, and you may need to take pain medications for several days. The severity of your pain also depends on the extent of the surgery, so it varies from patient to patient. You may need to take an anti-inflammatory drug or antibiotic for several days to reduce your risk of infection at the surgical site
Expect the transplanted hair to fall out within two to three weeks after surgery before the growth of new hair within a few months. Most people begin noticing new hair growth after six to nine months, but it can take a year to see the full results. Your surgeon may not prescribe Rogaine to improve hair growth after surgery. It is often safe to return to work or start light activities within three to five days.
