Men with androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, make good candidates for this procedure. LSE can achieve a higher hair transplant density as more follicles are extracted from the strip of skin. Patients with more extensive hair restoration needs are good candidates for LSE or FUT, as hair that is removed from the back of the head are the longest and healthiest, resulting in better hair restoration at the implant site.
The Plastic Surgeon will remove a thin strip of skin from the scalp, typically from the back of your head and then sutured close. The exact length and width required will depend on how many follicles are needed to achieve your desired results. The procedure typically leaves behind a thin linear scar and hair located above the scar can be utilised to cover the scar. The key to a comfortable hair transplant lies in the administration of local anaesthesia. The donor and recipient areas are numbed and most patients report feeling only minimal discomfort. Patient is under local anaesthesia to ensure they are relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Pre-Operative instructions will be provided at the time of consultation with our team and upon booking surgery.
Understanding the timeline for hair growth and the progression of results is key to managing expectations. New hair growth is visible starting at 3 months and can take around 12 to 15 months to see the full effect.
At 1-4 weeks post op, you can expect that some transplanted hair will begin to shed. This is a normal process and should not be a concern as all the transplanted grafts will shed during this time. This is a natural part of the process, and it doesn't mean that the procedure was unsuccessful. The follicles are merely preparing for new growth. Patience during this phase is crucial as the real transformation is yet to come.
Around the second to third month post-transplant, you may start noticing small signs of regrowth. Initially, the new hair may be fine and subtle. Results vary among individuals, and some may see more noticeable changes during this period.
The majority of patients experience significant growth and improvement in the appearance of their hair between the fourth and sixth months. At this stage, the transplanted hair becomes more visible, and you'll likely notice a positive change in your overall hair density and coverage.
As time progresses, the transplanted hair continues to thicken and mature. By the one-year mark, many individuals achieve substantial results, and the full benefits of the hair transplant become evident. Continued improvement can occur up to 18 months post-procedure. Patience is key in the growth process. It takes a full year or more to achieve a final result.
