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Month: August 2025

Hair Transplant vs. Hair Loss Treatments
22Aug

Hair loss has become a silent battle that everyone faces at some point in their life, which not only affects their appearance but also damages their self-image and confidence. With more people on the lookout for a reliable solution, you might have a lingering question: which would work better – hair transplant procedures or hair loss treatments? Non-surgical treatments for hair loss like PRP therapy, low-intensity laser treatment, and medications are popular for their affordability and convenience. Hair transplantation, on the other hand, assures natural-looking and permanent hair growth with ample coverage of thinning areas. Keep reading as we compare between hair transplant and hair loss treatments, and analyze pros and cons of hair loss treatments to make a well-informed choice.

Top Root Causes Behind Hair Loss

The key step towards treating and addressing your hair loss would be learning more about its root cause. It might vary from one person to another, as it can be caused by nutritional deficiency, aging, or an underlying health issue.

1. Genetics and Heredity

Your genes have a vital role in inducing hair loss, as it might occur at some point in time if any one of your parent has severe hair loss or balding issues. A hair loss condition called androgenic alopecia occurs in both males and females with inherited genes that gradually make your hair follicles shrink [1]. You will find signs of hair thinning along the forehead, hairline, and temples if you are a male [2], and if you are a female, your hair widens, and your scalp will experience hair thinning. Women with such diffuse hair thinning on the scalp will have a fuller hairline with healthy hair follicles.

2. Imbalance in Hormones

Your hormones have a key role in influencing the rate of hair growth. Any imbalances or fluctuations in your thyroid hormone levels, estrogen, and androgens, similar to testosterone, can affect your hair growth cycle. Such drastic changes in your hormone range can also be the major reason behind excessive shedding. Women tend to face severe hair loss due to the hormonal fluctuations while reaching puberty, menopause, or pregnancy. Sometimes, health conditions triggered by hormones like PCOD or PCOS can also cause hair loss in women.

3. Lack of Nutrition in Diet

Having a well-balanced diet comprising the right amount of good fats, vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other nutrients is essential for healthy hair. If your diet lacks essential nutrients like iron, protein, zinc, or vitamins, you will face hair loss even at a younger age. People who also rely on crash diets for quick weight loss, junk foods with zero nutrients, and restrictive diet patterns are prone to severe hair loss.

4. Specific Medical Issues

If you are taking long-term treatment for specific medical conditions, you might experience hair loss as a significant side effect of medications. If you have any autoimmune condition like alopecia areata [3], your immune system will launch an attack on active follicular units, leading to balding patches and hair thinning. Some medical conditions triggered by allergies or infections will affect scalp health and trigger hair loss. Treatments for chronic health issues, like chemotherapy, will also have hair thinning and hair loss as a major side effect.

5. Harsh Hair Treatments and Hair Styles

Usage of too many hair styling products, hair straightening products, curling products, and hair colourants with strong chemical formulations will damage the hair quality in the long run. Harsh hair treatments like bleaching and straightening can make your hair strands thin and affect the follicles’ health. Your hair would become weaker, thinner, and break easily. If you have the habit of wearing tight hairstyles like a high ponytail that would tug your hair follicles regularly, you are prone to face hair loss caused by traction alopecia.

What Is a Hair Transplant?

Hair transplant refers to a well-organized surgical procedure through which active follicular units are gently harvested from the healthy donor site located on your scalp. These extracted hair follicles will then be inserted into the recipient site that faces scanty hair growth or thinning hair. This invasive procedure for hair growth has become increasingly common in recent times, as it is precise, accurate, and offers natural-looking permanent hair growth within a year.

Hair transplant can work wonders for your thinning scalp only if you have healthy donor areas at the back or side of your head. So, it is essential to consult a plastic surgeon to restore hair growth before you face complete baldness. Though there is a common misconception that hair transplantation procedures can be availed only by men, hundreds of women have already begun to flaunt voluminous and fuller mane after undergoing a hair transplant.

Popular Non-Surgical Hair Loss Treatments

Several well-known non-surgical hair loss treatments, ranging from hair growth-inducing medications to minimally invasive options, help take care of hair loss caused by alopecia areata [4].

1. Hair Loss Medications

  • Minoxidil: Hair loss medications like Minoxidil can make your blood vessels wider to facilitate more circulation. It is available as oral medication to treat traction alopecia [5] and as a topical product. When applied using a derma roller, it might help by kindling hair follicles by dilating them to produce thicker strands [6].
  • Finasteride: This medication is prescribed to lower the effects of androgenetic alopecia that occurs when the 5-alpha reductase enzyme causes conversion of testosterone into DHT or dihydrotestosterone [7]. It inhibits the enzyme action to cut down DHT levels to prevent pattern baldness in men and women [8]. However, it might cause fertility issues and hormonal fluctuations.
  • Dutaseride: This medication is similar to Finasteride as it also combats DHT conversion by lowering 5-alpha reductase enzyme activity completely. It is considered a more efficient choice than Finasteride as it can improve hair density, thickness, and strand count [9]. However, it is not an FDA-approved product.
  • Corticosteroid Creams: They can also help with inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata.

2. PRP Treatment

This hair loss treatment is used to treat alopecia areata in males and females, as it helps relieve the symptoms [10]. It will also be suggested by your surgeon soon after your hair transplant to enhance the rate of graft survival, to help with thicker and quicker hair growth [11]. It is performed through platelet extraction and injecting it into problem areas in the scalp for nourishing hair follicles [12].

3. Low Intensity Laser Therapy

This minimally invasive procedure is popularly referred to as red light therapy to take care of hair loss [13]. It kindles your follicular units by passing infrared light to restore hair growth if affected by androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata [14].

Comparing Hair Transplants vs. Other Treatments

  • Long-term and Permanent: Hair transplantation methods offer permanent results that assure longevity. However, other treatment options like medications, laser therapy, and PRP offer short-term hair loss solutions.
  • Natural results: Hair transplants offer a head full of high-density and healthy hair that looks natural within a year. Other treatments, on the other hand, might help with hair loss and density, but might not be seamless and natural.
  • Cost Factor: Non-invasive treatment options are mostly affordable. However, you might have to repeat them several times a year, which can make you spend a significant amount per year. Hair transplants are a one-time investment to derive natural hair and restore a receding hairline.
  • Maintenance: Hair transplants don’t require you to spend after your initial recovery period. Other treatments like laser, PRP, or medications require maintenance sessions to maintain the results.

Pros and Cons of Each Hair Transplant Option

Before you opt for a hair transplantation procedure, it is essential to know about the various types to make an learned decision.

1. Direct Hair Implantation or DHI

In this hair transplantation method, the surgeon will perform direct implantation of the hair follicles in the recipient site. Unlike FUE, this advanced technique doesn’t make any incisions, as it is performed with a special tool for implanting follicles.

Pros

  • It is a patented hair transplant method that is minimally invasive.
  • Less healing process and quicker recovery.
  • Open to customization for a personalized hair growth outcome.
  • Assures natural hairline.
  • Precise and accurate.
  • Need just one session to restore hair.

Cons

  • Expensive as it needs a skilled surgeon and advanced equipment.

2. Follicular Unit Transplantation or FUT

It is the oldest method of hair transplant that is popularly referred to as the strip harvest technique. The surgeon would remove a skin strip with healthy follicles from the donor site, found at the back or side, for dissection. It would be implanted in the incisions made using a blade in the recipient side.

Pros

  • Assures better yield as a large amount of follicles are extracted per session.
  • Cost-effective option for severe hair loss issues.
  • Dissection of the scalp strip helps identify high-quality grafts for better survival.

Cons

  • High chances of developing linear scars
  • Longer recovery period
  • Risks like wound complications are present

3. Follicular Unit Extraction or FUE

It is performed by extracting follicular units and transplanting them by making a circular shape on the scalp.

Pros

  • Ideal for people with short hairstyles
  • Less or minimal scarring
  • Quick recovery time
  • No discomfort or pain
  • Flexible and convenient

Cons

  • Longer hair transplant sessions
  • Expensive as it demands intensive labor from the surgeon
  • Tiny scars on the scalp
  • Not for excessive hair loss

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Identifying the best hair loss treatment option relies on the extent and type of your hair loss. You can go for OTC medications to treat mild hair loss and prescription medications like Finasteride for pattern baldness in men and women. You can kindle hair growth with PRP treatment, and for diffuse hair loss in females and male pattern baldness, a hair transplant can assure natural hairline restoration and growth.

Final Thoughts: Talk to a Specialist Before You Decide

Consult the hair specialist at Akruti today to understand the stage of your hair loss, and to discuss whether a hair transplant, other hair loss treatments, or non-surgical options would work for you. This first step will pave the way to regain your lost hair and confidence together.

Citation Links

  1. Dinh QQ, Sinclair R. Female pattern hair loss: current treatment concepts. Clin Interv Aging. 2007;2(2):189-99. PMID: 18044135; PMCID: PMC2684510. – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2684510/
  2. American Hair Loss Association – https://www.americanhairloss.org/mens-hair-loss/
  3. Hogade, Ashok S. and Asma Arif Hussain. “COMPARISON OF EFFICACY OF VARIOUS TOPICAL TREATMENT MODALITIES IN ALOPECIA AREATA.” Journal of Evolution of medical and Dental Sciences 04 (2015): 2127-2134. – https://www.semanticscholar.org
  4. Sa Rang Kim, Brittany G. Craiglow, Treatment of traction alopecia with oral minoxidil, JAAD Case Reports, Volume 23, 2022, Pages 112-113, ISSN 2352-5126, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdcr.2022.03.023 – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352512622001503
  5. Gan DC, Sinclair RD. Prevalence of male and female pattern hair loss in Maryborough. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2005;10(3):184–9 – https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13555-021-00653-2
  6. Jayanaraian F. M. Andrade, Andrew Verbinnen, Andrew Bakst, Marcilio Cunha-Filho, Guilherme M. Gelfuso & Taís Gratieri. (2025) An update on nanocarriers for follicular-targeted drug delivery for androgenetic alopecia topical treatment. Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery 22:3, pages 367-381 – https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09546634.2021.1959506
  7. Keith D. Kaufman, Elise A. Olsen, David Whiting, Ronald Savin, Richard DeVillez, Wilma Bergfeld, Vera H. Price, Dominique Van Neste, Janet L. Roberts, Maria Hordinsky, Jerry Shapiro, Bruce Binkowitz, Glenn J. Gormley, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(98)70007-6. – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0190962298700076
  8. Sujit J.S Shanshanwal, Rachita S Dhurat Department of Dermatology, LTMMC and Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India – https://ijdvl.com/
  9. Hetz SP, Martin J, Pototschnig H. Patient Satisfaction and Clinical Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Pattern Hair Loss in Male and Female Patients. Cureus. 2022 Sep 5;14(9):e28801. doi: 10.7759/cureus.28801. PMID: 36225399; PMCID: PMC9534340. – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9534340/
  10. Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary – https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/10/8/1829
  11. Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States – https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2022.843127/full
  12. Friedman, Shelly DO, FAOCD, FAAD, FISHRS*; Schnoor, Patricia BSBA†. Novel Approach to Treating Androgenetic Alopecia in Females With Photobiomodulation (Low-Level Laser Therapy). Dermatologic Surgery 43(6):p 856-867, June 2017. | DOI: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001114 – https://journals.lww.com
  13. Ghanaat M (2010) Types of hair loss and treatment options, including the novel low-level light therapy and its proposed mechanism. S Med J103(9):917–921 – https://link.springer.com/
Can Women Hair Transplants
19Aug

As a woman, you would agree that your hair was considered a symbol of femininity and overall health since you were a little girl. This is why women love to experiment with different hairstyles, haircuts, coloring, and highlights to make their mane look more beautiful. However, it can be distressing and emotional as soon as you notice the onset of initial hair loss. Some of you might also feel that, apart from the aesthetic appeal, losing several strands every day is similar to losing a part of your precious identity. Female hair loss is a common issue that can occur at any point in life. A study held in 2023 showed that more than 50% of females are prone to face hair thinning during their lifetime [1]. It is estimated that about 32% of females might have to deal with female pattern hair loss [2].

Thankfully, you need not put up with the stress and anxiety associated with extreme hair loss, as hair transplant procedures for women will help offer a permanent solution. There is a common misconception that such hair loss reversal treatments are available only for men. However, the truth is women can also benefit from hair transplantation, which is why many have begun to consider it to restore lost hair. This write-up will give you an idea about female hair loss patterns, whether you are a good candidate for hair transplant, how your hair transplant differs from men’s procedure, the techniques, results, and hair transplant recovery time.

Understanding Female Hair Loss Patterns

When compared to men’s baldness pattern, the female hair loss pattern is much different. It is common for men to face bald spots or a receding hairline beginning at their crown or temples. So, hair transplantation can be a straightforward process as the donor sites on the scalp’s side and back are intact, making it perfect for harvesting grafts. However, women experience diffuse hair thinning, specifically along their hair parting or on the top part of their scalp. Sometimes, hair thinning might be widespread all over the scalp, which makes it challenging to mark a donor site that is stable to transplant grafts. However, when handled by a board-certified and skilled hair transplant surgeon, you will begin to notice considerable hair growth after a few months.

There are several types of female hair loss patterns, which would be identified by your surgeon based on the extent and pattern of hair loss or thinning.

1. Female Pattern Hair Loss / Androgenetic Alopecia

This pattern hair loss issue in women is very common and is often influenced by your genes, as it is hereditary.

Female Pattern Hair Loss Based on Ludwig Scale

A clinical system termed the Ludwig scale is specifically used to classify how female pattern hair loss progresses. Based on this scale, the hair loss is categorized into:

  • 1st Stage Hair Loss: During this stage, women tend to face very minimal thinning. Such hair loss on the scalp will be slightly visible, and it can be covered with hairstyling ideas.
  • 2nd Stage Hair Loss: You might be losing a lot of hair, and the hair loss would be prominent. The scalp on the hair parting would be visible and look wider than normal.
  • 3rd Stage Hair Loss: This Ludwig stage indicates extreme hair loss, making baldness and thinning much visible. Scanty hair will make your crown area noticeable, and frontal hairline baldness will also be present.

Female Pattern Hair Loss Based on Olsen Scale

According to the Olsen scale, female pattern hair loss would be prominent on the front side of the scalp. The hair loss pattern would look similar to a Christmas tree shape, featuring thinner hair along the front, which gets scanty towards the back.

Female Pattern Hair Loss Based on Hamilton’s Classification

Hamilton’s scale measures the extent of female pattern hair loss based on:

  • Bitemporal hair recession that mimics male pattern baldness
  • Hair diffuse thinning, especially along the scalp’s occipital and parietal regions

2. Alopecia Areata

Hair loss occurs due to the effect of an autoimmune condition when the immune system damages the hair follicles, causing hair loss patches. Loss of hair will be noticeable in your scalp, and this condition can affect women of all age groups who face autoimmune issues.

3. Telogen Effluvium

Factors like hormonal fluctuations, illnesses, or stress might lead to temporary hair loss. This type of hair loss might be chronic if it lasts for a long time and acute if it lasts for a few months. You might experience diffuse hair loss that might trigger bald patches or a visible scalp.
Are Women Good Candidates for Hair Transplant Surgery?

Yes, women facing specific hair loss patterns are perfect candidates for hair transplantation procedures [3]. Some of the hair loss conditions that can be rectified by hair transplant are listed below.

  • Women Having Bald Patches: Sometimes, women might have bald patches due to a specific surgery, trauma, accidents, scarring, or chemical burns. Such bald patches can be rectified with hair transplant procedures, as the affected area can be filled with active and healthy follicular units to offer a natural look after hair growth.
  • Traction Alopecia: If you have the habit of wearing tight hairstyles like high ponytails and tight braids or using hair extensions, you can benefit from a hair transplant. Since the areas not facing hair loss will have healthy hair follicles, the donor site will help in hair transplantation.
  • Female Pattern Baldness: If you have extreme hair thinning, especially in the hairline or crown area, a hair transplant will be an ideal choice. Hairline transplantation will help restore your hair and regain your self-esteem. If you have a healthy donor site that is not damaged by androgenetic alopecia, then you are eligible for hair transplantation.

Key Differences Between Male and Female Hair Transplants

The major difference between male and female hair transplant procedures lies in their hair loss pattern and the cause triggering it.

1. Pattern of Hair Loss

While men face a predictable and localized hair loss pattern, women usually experience diffuse hair thinning in the scalp, which makes choosing a donor area highly challenging.

2. Reliability of Donor Sites

Men facing severe hair loss will usually have healthy donor areas with reliable grafts. This is because their follicular units will not be damaged by the DHT hormone that induces hair loss. The donor sites of women will be damaged due to hair thinning, which demands extensive assessment, as the availability of healthy grafts for harvest will be limited.

3. Shaving of the Recipient Site

Males who undergo a hair transplant procedure will prefer to shave their recipient site to make it easier for the extraction of follicular units. However, women, on the other hand, are not comfortable with shaving, making hair transplantation a challenging task. It requires a renowned plastic surgeon possessing extensive surgical experience and skills to transplant follicles with high precision without causing hair damage in the donor site.

4. Hair Transplant Techniques

Surgeons usually suggest both FUE or Follicular Unit Extraction and FUT or Follicular Unit Transplantation for male hair loss. Out of these two procedures, FUE has emerged as a popular choice. For women, FUT will be useful for transplanting a large number of grafts with no or minimal shaving. The DHI method would also be beneficial as it is performed with high precision, and implantation is performed using a special device.

Common Hair Transplant Techniques for Women

1. FUE Method

The FUE or Follicular Unit Transplantation procedure is a flexible choice in terms of the extraction of grafts. Females facing a diffuse hair loss pattern will not have less follicle density, which is essential for graft harvesting. So, this hybrid FUE procedure featuring several strip extraction processes will help optimize the potential of graft extraction.

2. FUT Method

If you wish to opt for FUT or Follicular Unit Transplantation, it is essential to consider your scalp’s laxity. When compared to their male counterparts, females generally have high laxity in their donor sites. So, to harvest follicles from the donor area, your surgeon must follow a reserved approach for lowering scarring risks. Mostly, your scalp’s occipital and parietal regions are considered perfect donor sites for a hair transplant.

Expected Results and Recovery Timeline

You can start noticing baby hair growth between the 3rd and 5th month after a hair transplant. With time, new hair strands will begin to improve in terms of thickness and density. The whole process will take about one year to see full hair growth.

The recovery timeline for a hair transplant differs by person. You can expect:

  • 1 to 7 Days: Sensitivity, redness, swelling, and crusting.
  • 2nd to 4th Week: Shock loss, hair shedding, scabs falling off, and mild inflammation.
  • 1st to 6th Month: No swelling and scabs, improvement in scalp texture, and growth of fine baby hairs.
  • 6th to 12th Month: Hair grows in a natural pattern and direction, with improvement in hair density, and permanent results.

Alternatives to Hair Transplant for Women

Women have only limited options to treat hair loss. Some might use Finasteride, but it is not for females with birth defects and might need a doctor’s supervision. Other alternatives include minoxidil, PRP therapy, hormone therapy, thyroid regulation therapy, and laser therapy.

When to Consult a Hair Restoration Specialist

You can fix an appointment with the hair restoration specialist at Akruti while facing extreme hair loss, causing visible scalp, hair texture alterations, hereditary hair loss, and persistent scalp problems.

Reference Links:

  • Chaikittisilpa, Sukanya MD, MSc1; Rattanasirisin, Nattiya MD; Panchaprateep, Ratchathorn MD, PhD; Orprayoon, Nalina MD; Phutrakul, Phanuphong PhD; Suwan, Ammarin MD; Jaisamrarn, Unnop MD, MHS1. Prevalence of female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study. Menopause 29(4):p 415-420, April 2022. | DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000001927 – https://journals.lww.com
  • Muller Ramos P, Melo DF, Radwanski H, de Almeida RFC, Miot HA. Female-pattern hair loss: therapeutic update. An Bras Dermatol. 2023 Jul-Aug;98(4):506-519. doi: 10.1016/j.abd.2022.09.006. Epub 2023 Mar 30. PMID: 37003900; PMCID: PMC10334345. – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10334345/
  • American Hair Loss Association – https://www.americanhairloss.org/
Hair Transplant Recovery Timeline
7Aug

When you are planning to consider a hair transplantation procedure to tackle hair loss, it is natural for you to have concerns about the timeline required for complete healing. It is essential to know that the period of healing might vary from one person to another. Learning more about what to expect while healing would help you stay free from anxiety while experiencing changes. Keep reading while we take you through each phase of the recovery timeline, right from the immediate post-surgery phase to the wonderful moment of seeing new baby hair growth. This helpful guide on the recovery timeline for hair transplant would make life easier while you walk towards successful hair growth results. Let’s dig deeper to understand how healing would look every week after your hair transplantation procedure.

Healing and Recovery Timeline after Hair Transplant

Opting for a hair transplant can be an exciting experience, as you will not only regain hair but also get a confidence boost. After your hair transplant, the healing process would generally require about three months, and complete recovery would need between 6 and 12 months. It is essential to remember that during the recovery period, it is natural to face shedding of freshly transplanted hair temporarily, which is referred to as shock loss. Ensure you follow all the post-operative care instructions and stay clear about the recovery timeline to get optimum results. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you can expect week-by-week after a hair transplant.

Day 1 to 3 – Immediate Post-Surgery Phase

Soon after the hair transplantation procedure, your body will naturally initiate the healing process immediately. It is important to notice all the responses triggered by your body in this initial healing phase. During this post-surgery period, it is common to experience tenderness, discomfort, and swelling near your eyes and forehead. Such discomfort might last for a couple of days and would subside gradually in a week. You might feel some odd sensations similar to the squinting effect when standing under the sun for long hours. It is the healing response of your body that is normal during the initial days after the hair transplant.

  • 1st and 2nd Day: You might be experiencing tenderness, mild swelling, and redness in the donor as well as transplanted sites in the scalp.
  • 3rd Day: After 3 days of hair transplant, you might notice extensive swelling, which would begin to subside after a few hours. You can also start to rinse your scalp using tepid warm water along with a shampoo suggested by your surgeon.

Care Instructions

  • Do not try to touch or scratch the scalp.
  • Keep your head well-elevated while sleeping or resting to cut down the rate of swelling.
  • Do not indulge in strenuous activities that might make you sweat, smoking, alcohol, or direct exposure to the sun.

Day 4 to 14 – Healing, Scabbing & Shedding

During the first and second week after a hair transplant, you will notice the following changes in your scalp. You will have to keep the bandages in the donor site in the scalp intact, where the grafts were extracted, and in the recipient or treatment area for a few days for uniform healing.

4th to 7th Day

  • The scalp appears red, along with a slight discomfort in the transplanted area and donor region.
  • Mild tingling sensation or pain in the treatment area.
  • Formation of crusts and scabs along the site with new grafts.
  • The scabs might feel itchy or tight.8th to 14th Day

You will notice that the scabs are falling off naturally, and the transplanted hair is shedding gradually due to shock loss. This is a temporary and normal process of healing.

Care Instructions

  • Continue scalp washing using shampoo, but do not scratch it with nails; follow a caressing approach to prevent infection.
  • Do not apply any products on the scalp that might contain abrasive beads or a harsh formula to get rid of the scabs.
  • Avoid the urge to pick, peel, or scratch the scalp and scabs.
  • Practice light activities that will not make you break a sweat.
  • Eat a nutritious diet and stay hydrated to promote the healing process.

Week 3 to 4 – Scalp Normalizes

During this period, you will experience a major transition in the healing process. During this timeline, the irritating phase of dealing with unsightly scabs will come to an end, and the anticipation of noticing the growth of tiny baby hairs will begin to build. You will also notice that:

  • Scabs have almost disappeared after the 3rd week.
  • The redness of the scalp and swelling has diminished.

Care Instructions

  • Maintain gentle scalp rinsing with cold water while massaging with your fingertips.
  • You can keep your scalp moisturized if your surgeon suggests a post-op product.
  • Practice moderate exercises that don’t apply pressure on your scalp.
  • Do not wear a helmet or cap.
  • Avoid going out in the sun.

Month 2 to 3 – Dormant Phase

During this healing period, your scalp would enter the dormant stage because you might not witness any dramatic changes on the scalp surface. However, the healing process would happen under the scalp. Though it can be overwhelming to get a glimpse of your baby hairs, patience should be your ally.

Care Instructions

  • Maintain a clean scalp by rinsing and cleansing with a gentle approach.
  • Adhere to the aftercare guidelines of your surgeon as you wait for the new hair strands to grow.

Months 4 to 6 – Initial Hair Growth

During this critical stage, you will begin to notice initial hair growth, indicating the transplanted follicular units have settled in their new place. The exciting part of fine and wispy baby hair growth will occur once you enter the 3rd month. You might also notice tiny pimples and slight irritation in the transplanted area, which normally occurs when the new hair emerges from the skin. Initially, the new hairs would be very soft and fine due to the start of their growth cycle. Lower your expectations as the hair strands might not be thicker, but delicate, spreading across the scalp landscape. When compared to your existing hair, they might vary in terms of texture and colour.

Care Instructions

  • Your surgeon might prescribe a soothing lotion or cream to calm down the scalp irritation.
  • Maintain your scalp clean using mild cleansing products.
  • Be cautious when stepping out in the sun and avoid long hours of travel in the sun.
  • You can wear a hat with a wide brim to protect those baby hairs while their roots strengthen when stepping out.

Month 6 to 12 – Full Results & Hair Maturity

During this healing timeline, the transformation of your scalp towards achieving full hair growth comes to an end. You will notice various transformative changes like the maturity of hair, its density, strand thickness, and appearance. Your patience will be paid off with this evident progress, and you will be free from all kinds of discomfort that you had to endure so far. The growth of your hair would be about half an inch per month, and by the 6th month, you would have fuller and denser hair. The aesthetic appeal of your hair would help in elevating your confidence levels. After 12 months of your hair transplant, you will see about 90% of hair growth, and you will begin to appreciate your self-image. However, it is important to understand that factors like genetics, age, and health conditions can affect the density and rate of hair growth. Having realistic expectations about hair transplantation results would help you enjoy the healing journey.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

  • Take aftercare instructions seriously and implement them effectively every day for a positive healing outcome.
  • Do not rinse or wash the scalp until 3 days after the hair transplant, as it might disturb the new graft from settling.
  • Handle your scalp rinse delicately, as a strong touch can also disturb the follicular units.
  • Avoid sun exposure as UV rays can penetrate scalp skin and hinder the healing process.
  • Avoid tight headgear or a cap to prevent skin irritation.
  • Nourish your body with a nutrient-rich diet for strengthening follicles and kindle hair regrowth.
  • Don’t forget to stay hydrated.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking to hasten your healing and recovery time.

Wrapping Up

Adhering to post-surgery aftercare instructions and recovery tips after a hair transplant will help in quickening the healing and recovery timeline. However, it is essential to realize that scheduling aftercare consultations with your surgeon at Akruti every week will help in tracking your progress.

Hair Transplant Graft
4Aug

Hair loss can be a worrying issue, as it can alter the way one looks and lower self-confidence. Thankfully, advancements in the hair and skin health arena have paved the way for reliable solutions like hair transplant procedures that assure permanent results. Such hair implantation techniques are considered effective in the long run for restoring hair to help you regain lost confidence and self-esteem [1]. While exploring hair restoration techniques, it is essential to understand how many hair grafts you might require to cover the thinning or balding areas. Having an idea about your graft requirement will be useful for setting realistic expectations regarding the hair restoration procedure and creating a personalized hair transplant plan for a better outcome. Keep reading to learn more about what a hair graft is, identify the factors that are determinants of your graft numbers, and know how your surgeon would be calculating your ideal hair graft number to deliver perfect and natural results.

What Is a Hair Graft?

A hair graft refers to a strip containing a cluster or group of hair follicles, which are extracted from the donor site in the scalp and transplanted to the receiving site with hair loss or thinning. The hair graft is also referred to as a follicular unit. In your scalp, 1 sq. cm contains about 100 hair grafts. The capacity of your hair grafts might vary between one and six hair follicles. The success rate of your hair transplantation procedure relies on the health, density, and number of hair grafts found in the donor region of the scalp. A study held in 2017 revealed that hair graft quality and follicle density might vary from one individual to another due to factors like one’s ethnicity, age group, colour of hair, and scalp size [2]. Your scalp will contain these types of hair grafts:

  • Single Hair Graft – It would have just one hair follicle and will be useful for creating a natural hairline.
  • Double Hair Grafts – It would contain two follicular units and can increase density.
  • Triple Hair Grafts – It will have three follicular units and is great to fill up the balding areas in the scalp.
  • Quadruple Hair Grafts – It will have four follicular units and will be useful for covering a large balding area.

Factors That Determine Graft Requirements

  1. Extent of Hair Baldness and Thinning: To get a full head of healthy hair growth, it is essential to understand the extent of balding or hair thinning in the scalp. It is also important to pay attention to the area where there is heavy hair loss to determine the graft requirement. If there is a large area with thinning hair or baldness, the required amount of hair graft would be more, and vice-versa.
  2. Hair Quality in the Donor Area: It is a major factor that determines the number of hair grafts required for hair transplant. The quality of the hair in the donor area would be assessed by your surgeon to ensure that they do not shed and has high survival rates. The better quality of hair in the donor area will help in resisting shedding after transplant and survive better in the receiver site.
  3. Hair and Skin Color: As your hair colour is in contrast to the skin color, this difference can impact the coverage ratio and also influences the hair draft requirement. For people with lighter skin, a higher number of hair grafts would be needed to achieve better coverage and for a full hair transplant.
  4. Hair Density / Thickness: If you have naturally thick hair, then your scalp will contain fewer hair follicles per sq. cm. So, hair transplant will require fewer hair grafts when compared to those having fine, thin hair.
  5. Curly Hair: Those who have curly hair will have better scalp coverage, as it can spread well and cover the underlying scalp completely. So, people with curly mane will need fewer hair grafts for achieving a full hair transplant than people with straight hair. If your hair is straight, then you will need a larger number of grafts and get it transplanted at sharp angles for better coverage. So, the hair regrowth will offer optimum coverage and would blend well with your existing hair.

Graft Count Based on Baldness Level

According to the clinically recognized Norwood scale, the number of hair grafts required for transplantation varies based on the degree of baldness [3]. Here is the breakdown of graft count based on stages of Baldness based on the Norwood scale.

  • 1st Baldness Stage: This stage, based on the Norwood scale, refers to people facing a minimal amount of hair loss. Your surgeon might suggest PRP treatment or prescribe medication initially. However, if it doesn’t work, you might need around 1000 hair grafts for hairline remodeling.
  • 2nd Baldness Stage: The Norwood system considers people facing mild hairline recession as the 2nd stage of baldness. You might need between 1000 and 1500 follicular units for transplantation along the hairline.
    • 3rd Baldness Stage:
      • Recession Stage: This stage is considered a stage of significant recession, as your hairline will start to form an M-shaped hair loss pattern. A hair transplantation procedure can help achieve a natural and dense hairline, typically requiring around 2,000 grafts.
      • Vertex Stage: This is another type in the 3rd stage of the Norwood scale, where hair thinning will develop along the crown region. The total number of grafts required for perfect coverage would be around 2500 grafts, with about 1000 grafts for crown coverage and about 2000 grafts for hairline transplantation.
    • 4th Baldness Stage: If you are facing severe hair loss along the hairline and at the crown, it is the 4th stage of baldness. You might need about 3500 grafts to achieve excellent coverage in both these areas. Additionally, if your donor region has healthy follicular units, you may require approximately 4,000 grafts.
    • 5th Baldness Stage: This stage of balding features a very thin and scanty scalp with balding areas merging. You might need at least 3500 grafts to create a better front line, and for complete coverage, it would take around 4000 grafts.
    • 6th Baldness Stage: If your crown area is highly visible with extensive hair loss, and extends to the crown and front side, you might need around 6000 hair grafts. To create a hairline with a natural look, about 4500 grafts are needed, and it will take two hair transplant sessions to achieve total coverage with 6000 grafts.
    • 7th Baldness Stage: This stage denotes extreme baldness, demanding a hair transplant for ample coverage with more than 7000 grafts. However, it is not possible to extract more than 6000 grafts from the donor area due to extensive hair loss.

    How Many Grafts for Full Coverage?

    It would be surprising for you to know that the graft count for hair transplant will change based on the areas of hair loss in the scalp.

    • Frontal Hairline & Temples: To get full coverage when developing a natural hairline on the front and near the temples, you might require around 500 to 1800 grafts.
    • Mid-scalp Area: You might need between 1000 and 2500 grafts to tackle hair loss in the middle part of your scalp.
    • Crown Area: About 2500 to 4000 or more grafts will be required for restoring hair at the crown area, where the hair is fine or scanty.

    Typical Graft Requirements: FUE vs. FUT

    Both FUT or Follicular Unit Transplantation and FUE or Follicular Unit Extraction are highly effective methods of hair transplant [4]. The typical graft requirements for these procedures tend to vary as each method follows a distinct graft extraction process, and the number of grafts removed per session will also differ.

    1. FUT: Follicular Unit Transplantation can give a yield between 3000 and 5000 grafts per session for complete coverage for moderate hair loss. Sometimes, your surgeon will also extract around 6000 grafts for extreme hair loss through the FUT technique.
    2. FUE: In one session of FUE, there would be a normal yield of around 2000 or 2500 grafts. In multiple sessions, FUE can transplant up to 6000 grafts for people facing extreme baldness.

    Can You Get All Grafts in One Session?

    A single session of hair transplant will be feasible if:

    • You have mild to moderate hair loss between stages 2 and 4 of the Norwood system. It is possible to gather around 4000 or 5000 grafts in one session.
    • If your donor area is healthy and has good density, your surgeon can collect enough grafts per session.
    • If your surgeon suggests a combination of both FUE and FUT methods, then achieving more than 4000 grafts is possible per session.

    Final Thoughts

    Knowing how many grafts would be needed for your hair transplant is essential for achieving a better outcome. With the right number of grafts, achieving a head full of natural hair regrowth with optimum coverage is not a dream anymore. However, it is always advisable to find a board-certified and experienced hair transplant surgeon to get your customized treatment plan to bid goodbye to hair loss. Akruti focuses on curating a hair transplant plan that is unique like you, offers natural results, and lasts a lifetime.

    Citation Links:

    1. Zito PM, Raggio BS. Hair Transplantation. [Updated 2024 Feb 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547740/
      – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547740/
    2. Birnbaum MR, McLellan BN, Shapiro J, Ye K, Reid SD. Evaluation of Hair Density in Different Ethnicities in a Healthy American Population Using Quantitative Trichoscopic Analysis. Skin Appendage Disord. 2018 Oct;4(4):304-307. doi: 10.1159/000485522. Epub 2017 Dec 16. PMID: 30410902; PMCID: PMC6219221. – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6219221/
    3. Chouhan K, Roga G, Kumar A, Gupta J. Approach to Hair Transplantation in Advanced Grade Baldness by Follicular Unit Extraction: A Retrospective Analysis of 820 Cases. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2019 Oct-Dec;12(4):215-222. doi: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_173_18. PMID: 32001965; PMCID: PMC6967160. – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6967160/
    4. Kristina Collins, Marc R. Avram, Hair Transplantation and Follicular Unit Extraction, Dermatologic Clinics, Volume 39, Issue 3, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.det.2021.04.003. – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0733863521000231?via%3Dihub
Six-pack Abs Surgery
1Aug

If you are following your gym workout routine meticulously, practicing healthy eating, and in spite of such efforts, you are unable to achieve your goal of developing six-pack abs, you are not alone. People who have issues like skin elasticity, stubborn fat pockets, and genetic factors might have difficulty developing etched abs despite following a dedicated workout regimen. In such cases, opting for six-pack abs surgery is a wise decision. This cosmetic surgical procedure is also referred to as abdominal etching or ab etching, which specifically enhances the way your abdominal muscles look.

Six-pack abs surgery is designed to sculpt your fat strategically along the natural abdomen muscle contours to deliver a well-defined, etched abs. This latest body contouring procedure has become a preferred option among fitness lovers, bodybuilding enthusiasts, and celebrities. It is also useful for individuals who prefer to flaunt an athletic body with toned abs without toiling hard in the gym. Keep reading to learn more about six-pack abs surgery, who can opt for ab etching, its benefits, recovery, risks, cost, and maintenance tips to make a well-informed decision.

What Is Six-Pack Abs Surgery (Abdominal Etching)?

Six-pack sculpting was first presented by Dr Henry Mentz, its inventor, in 1993 at the conference of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. This technique, based on liposuction, was invented for creating well-defined muscles in the male’s torso region. Six-pack sculpting is the specialized variant of liposuction that focuses on the tiny fat deposits in the strategic areas of your abdomen.

Midsection fat tends to be stubborn, as this subcutaneous fat helps your body by protecting your vital organs, restricting heat loss, and shielding against external stress [1]. This fat is resistant to diet and workouts, which is why your flabby midsection stays intact despite your weight loss. This procedure has high precision to eliminate the fat in a specific way, highlighting the abdominal muscle anatomy naturally.

Abdominal etching focuses on creating a well-defined, more prominent, and chiseled abdomen to make your six-pack much visible and to make your side oblique muscles more visible [2]. The procedure’s objective is to deliver well-developed muscular abs without spending long hours doing exercises. A study held with people who underwent abdominal etching showed that about 98% of the poll participants were very satisfied with the results [3].

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Six-pack Sculpting?

To become a suitable candidate for six-pack ab surgery, you must meet the criteria listed below:

  • Ideal Weight Range: People who are close to their ideal body weight or maintain the ideal weight regularly can opt for six-pack sculpting. This is because the ab etching procedure is not a weight loss solution and aims at defining abdominal muscle enhancement.
  • Perfect Health: The candidate who wishes to undergo six-pack ab surgery must have perfect overall health. They must not have any chronic medical issues, as it might affect the surgical procedure and its recovery.
  • Balanced Lifestyle: Individuals who maintain a perfect lifestyle featuring a regular workout regimen and a well-balanced diet can opt for ab etching. Having a healthy lifestyle would help you maintain long-lasting six-pack ab sculpting results.
  • No Smoking Habit: You must not have a smoking habit, as it can mess with healing and lead to unfavorable complications during or after the ab etching procedure.
  • Being Realistic about Outcomes: It is essential to have realistic expectations before opting for a six-pack sculpting procedure regarding the outcome. You must also understand that ab etching procedure aims at improving muscle definition and will not lead to new muscle development.

Benefits of Six-Pack Sculpting

Here are the top benefits of six-pack ab sculpting:

  • Chiseled and Sculpted Abdominal Muscles: The major benefit of choosing six-pack sculpting is its ability to deliver a dramatically looking abdomen that workouts and diet failed to offer. You will be able to flaunt your six-pack abdomen soon after the first session of the ab etching procedure. There is no need to invest several hours per day exercising to develop well-toned abs. With a healthy lifestyle, you will be able to enhance your sculpted six-pack results with time.
  • Results are Permanent: The well-defined muscles in your abdomen are the permanent outcome of the ab sculpting procedure. As your body will be unable to replace the eliminated fat pockets during the six-pack sculpting procedure, the definition stays intact. However, to retain it for a lifetime, you must follow a healthy lifestyle. Always remember that gaining extra body weight can hurt the surgical outcome.
  • Minimal Scarring: This cosmetic procedure helps you flaunt those perky six-packs with pride, as there are no concerns like scarring. There would be no visible scars associated with ab etching, as the technique is performed by making small incisions, which heal immediately. The scars of the incisions will fade away as soon as it is healed.
  • Fast-paced Recovery: One of the biggest benefits of ab etching procedure is its quick recovery period. You will be able to get back to your routine life and regular activities within a week’s time after six-pack sculpting. You can also indulge in gym workouts about 3 weeks after your abdominal etching procedure.
  • Regain Confidence: With ab etching, you can finally stay relieved that all your gym efforts are finally showing up in your abdomen area. Knowing that you are one of those fitness lovers who will be able to flaunt a six-pack will give you a confidence boost and enhance your body image.

Recovery & After-care Guidelines for Six-pack Sculpting

  • You can expect discomfort, slight bruising, and swelling in the abdominal region after a six-pack sculpting session.
  • You might have to wear compression garments to lower swelling and to provide enough support for the abdominal muscles.
  • You can do light workout activities gradually after 7 days and should wait for a few more weeks before practicing heavy workouts.
  • Rest and keep your torso elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Walk inside your home for 10 minutes, followed by two hours of rest to strengthen your torso.
  • Fix follow-up appointments with your surgeon to stay assured that your abdominal muscles are healing at the right pace and to track the outcomes.
  • Eat a balanced diet that is nutritious to improve healing and enhance health.
  • Remember to stay relaxed without any stress and avoid smoking.
  • Do not get exposed to direct sunlight after your ab etching procedure.

Risks / Side Effects of Six-Pack Abs Surgery

It is essential to understand that all surgical cosmetic procedures are associated with some risks or side effects. Despite being a low-risk procedure, six-pack sculpting might cause a few side effects:

  1. Discoloration of skin
  2. Nerve damage
  3. Uneven healing
  4. Bruising
  5. Headache
  6. Accumulation of fluid
  7. Swelling
  8. Bumps on skin
  9. Damage to blood vessels

Limitations of Six-Pack Abs Surgery

  • Depends on Your Lifestyle: To maintain the six-pack sculpted abs, it is important to have a proper workout and diet plan. If you don’t follow this lifestyle, results might be lost.
  • Aging and Body Weight Changes: The way your sculpted abs appear might change as you age and gain weight over time.
  • Not an Obesity Solution: Ab etching is not a weight loss treatment, and only individuals with ideal body weight can opt for it.
  • Success Rate: The success outcome of six-pack sculpting depends on the experience and skills of the board-certified surgeon.

Cost of Six-Pack Sculpting

The cost of six-pack sculpting in India varies between Rs. 1.5 lakhs to Rs. 3 lakhs. The cost might vary based on a few factors like:

  • Extent of sculpting area
  • Expertise of your surgeon performing ab etching
  • Clinic’s geographic location
  • Extent of fat removed from the abdomen
  • Technology used, like laser, power-assisted, etc.

Maintaining Results: Diet, Exercise & Lifestyle

To maintain the six-pack abs after ab etching, you must maintain a consistent lifestyle and follow the pointers discussed below.

  • Nutritious and Balanced Diet: Your diet must include healthy fats, lean proteins, complex carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Regular Workouts: Your exercise regimen must have core-strengthening workouts, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises to define your ab muscles.
  • Enough Hydration: Drink enough water to enhance skin elasticity, support overall body function, and stay fit.
  • Stay Healthy: Avoid smoking, high sugar, high fat, and alcohol consumption. Always get enough sleep for overall health improvement.
  • Body Weight Management: Experiencing significant weight loss or weight gain will impact your six-pack’s visibility. So, it is essential to maintain a stable weight consistently, even as you age.
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