December 31, 2023

Bloomington's Guide to Hair Transplant: What to Expect and How to Prepare

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Are you considering a hair transplant in Bloomington? A good candidate for a hair transplant is typically someone experiencing noticeable hair thinning or balding. Ideal candidates have sufficient donor hair, usually from the back or sides of the head, to facilitate the transplant process. Choosing a hair transplant can be beneficial for those seeking a long-term solution to hair loss, as it provides a natural-looking and permanent result.  By opting for a hair transplant, you can reclaim a fuller head of hair, achieve a more youthful look, and enjoy the enduring benefits of renewed self-assurance.

The Hair Restoration Institute of Minnesota offers three primary methods to bring back your hair and confidence: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), and MaxDermal Graft. In this guide, we'll walk you through each option, what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, and how to prepare for the journey ahead.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

What is FUE?

FUE, or Follicular Unit Extraction, is a modern and minimally invasive hair transplant technique. It involves individually extracting hair follicles from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the head) and transplanting them to the balding or thinning areas. This method leaves tiny, virtually undetectable scars, making it a preferred choice for those who want a less invasive procedure.

How to Prepare:

Before your FUE procedure, it's essential to follow a few simple steps to ensure optimal results. Refrain from taking blood-thinning medications for at least a week before the surgery, as this helps minimize bleeding during the extraction process. It's also advisable to avoid alcohol and tobacco to promote better healing.

The Procedure:

On the day of the FUE procedure, you'll be administered local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. The surgeon will then use a specialized punch tool to carefully extract individual hair follicles. The extracted follicles are meticulously placed in the recipient area, where they will grow naturally over time.

Postoperative Care:

Following your FUE treatment, it's crucial to follow the postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include avoiding strenuous activities for a few days, keeping the treated area clean, and taking prescribed medications to aid in healing. Most patients can return to their regular activities within a week, with new hair growth becoming noticeable in the coming months.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

What is FUT?

FUT, or Follicular Unit Transplantation, is another effective hair restoration method offered by the Hair Restoration Institute. Unlike FUE, FUT involves removing a small strip of tissue from the donor area to extract hair follicles. This method is suitable for individuals with larger areas of hair loss or those who prefer a more cost-effective approach.

How to Prepare:

Preparing for an FUT procedure involves similar steps as FUE. Discontinue blood-thinning medications, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and follow any specific instructions provided by your surgeon. It's important to have realistic expectations about the results, as FUT may leave a linear scar, which can be concealed with longer hair.

The Procedure:

During the FUT procedure, the surgeon carefully removes a strip of tissue from the donor area and separates it into individual follicular units. These units are then transplanted into the recipient area, creating a natural-looking hairline. Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience, and the entire process typically takes a few hours.

Postoperative Care:

Postoperative care for FUT is similar to FUE. You may need to take some time off from strenuous activities, keep the treated area clean, and follow any prescribed medications. The recovery period is generally slightly longer compared to FUE, but the results are equally impressive, with new hair growth becoming apparent over several months.

MaxDermal Graft

What is MaxDermal Graft?

MaxDermal Graft is a groundbreaking solution designed for those with advanced hair loss. This innovative procedure combines the benefits of surgical and non-surgical techniques, offering a comprehensive transformation in a fraction of the time.

How to Prepare:

Preparing for MaxDermal Graft follows the same general guidelines as the other procedures. Discontinue blood-thinning medications, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and follow any specific instructions provided by your surgeon. Discuss your expectations with your surgeon to ensure a personalized treatment plan.

The Procedure:

During the MaxDermal Graft procedure, the surgeon combines either FUE or FUT with Dermal Lens technology. This comprehensive approach allows for a more tailored and natural-looking result, making it especially suitable for individuals with advanced hair loss. The transplantation process, coupled with the benefits of Dermal Lens, offers an accelerated transformation.

Postoperative Care:

Postoperative care for MaxDermal Graft is comparable to FUE and FUT. Follow the provided instructions, take any prescribed medications, and allow time for proper healing. The integration of surgical and non-surgical techniques in MaxDermal Graft results in a fuller and more natural appearance, with new hair growth becoming evident over time.

If you're considering a hair transplant in Bloomington, the Hair Restoration Institute offers a range of effective options to meet your needs. Call us at 612-588-HAIR (4247) to schedule your free consultation with one of our caring hair loss professionals today. We will evaluate your hair loss and create a customized plan to give you a healthy, vibrant head of hair again. We are located at 8009 34th Avenue S, Suite #1225, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425.