What is the principle of hair transplantation?

Jan 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I would like to understand the principle of hair transplant surgery and inquire how hair transplantation improves hair loss conditions.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu

Hair transplantation surgery, also known as follicular unit transplantation, works by using hair follicles from the back of the scalp as the source, as these follicles are not controlled by male hormones. During the procedure, doctors use microsurgical techniques to extract healthy follicular units from the donor area. After careful processing and separation, these follicles are artistically transplanted into the balding or thinning areas following the natural direction of hair growth.

Hair transplantation surgery is generally divided into two techniques: follicular unit transplantation and follicular unit extraction. The follicular unit transplantation technique involves removing a strip of scalp skin, from which follicular units are then isolated and implanted into the bald areas. In contrast, the follicular unit extraction technique directly removes individual follicular units from the back of the scalp and implants them into the bald areas. This method causes less trauma and allows for quicker recovery.

Prior to undergoing hair transplantation surgery, a comprehensive examination of the scalp and hair follicles should be conducted to ensure there are sufficient healthy follicles available for transplantation in the back of the scalp. After surgery, patients need to follow proper postoperative care instructions, maintain good personal hygiene, and avoid infection. Additionally, maintaining healthy sleeping and eating habits while avoiding excessive fatigue and consumption of spicy or irritating foods is important to promote follicle survival and hair growth.