What Are the Methods and Steps of Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation methods generally include mini hair transplantation and scalp reduction with stretching. The typical process of hair transplantation involves taking a fusiform skin flap from the occipital region, performing subcutaneous decompression suturing and continuous suturing of the outer layer, followed by hair follicle separation and finally implantation.

1. Mini Hair Transplantation: This method uses a specially designed multi-layer blade to slice off several pieces of scalp with hair and hair follicles at once. These pieces are then cut into smaller sections, each containing three to four hairs. As the small sections of scalp easily survive after transplantation, this method is suitable for increasing hair density in sparse areas. However, the disadvantage is that the surgical time can be quite long, often requiring several hours.

2. Scalp Reduction with Stretching: Skin stretchers are elastic bands with a small ring attached to one end. They are fixed under the scalp to stretch the bald area and enlarge the exposed scalp surface. After approximately four weeks, the excess bald scalp is removed, and the incision is sutured. This is known as "scalp reduction with stretching." Compared to "simple scalp reduction," this technique can be used to treat larger areas of baldness.

Firstly, a fusiform skin flap is taken from the occipital region, followed by subcutaneous decompression suturing and continuous suturing of the outer layer. After wound healing, there is usually a thin scar hidden among the hairs, which is not noticeable due to the minimal hair removal along the longitudinal axis of the hair follicles. This ensures minimal alteration to the appearance of the original occipital hair.

Secondly, hair follicle separation involves dividing the removed skin flap into several small graft units, or grafts, without damaging the hair follicles. Each graft contains 2-10 hair follicles, depending on the surgical technique. This process requires extreme precision, patience, and care by the medical staff to avoid damaging any hair follicles and causing patient loss.

Lastly, hair follicle implantation involves making micro-incisions or holes in the bald area and implanting the grafts into the skin. This step determines the final aesthetic outcome of the surgery. As the number of hair follicles is limited, it is crucial to distribute them artistically across the scalp to achieve the best visual effect. The distribution of hair follicles at the hairline is particularly important as it significantly impacts the overall appearance of the transplanted hair.