Donor Area and Its Importance
The donor area is critical for the success of hair transplantation. The hair follicles in the donor area are usually genetically resistant to hair loss and therefore the transplanted hair is permanent. One of the biggest limitations of hair transplantation is the need for a sufficient amount of healthy hair follicles in the donor area. The safe donor area on the scalp that can accommodate healthy donor grafts is very limited and is usually located at the back of the head. Donor grafts in this area are not infinite, on the contrary, their number is limited. Hair follicles taken from areas outside the donor area may be prone to shedding. The density and health of the donor area directly affects the number of grafts that can be transplanted and the results of the procedure
How Many Grafts Does a Totally Bald Man Need?
The degree of hair loss in men is usually determined by the Norwood Scale. This scale indicates 7 stages of male pattern baldness (the Ludwig Scale is used for female pattern baldness). Most hair transplants rely on hair from the scalp as a donor site, and your Norwood stage can determine your likelihood of a hair transplant.
The Norwood Scale is used to measure the level of hair loss in individuals with male pattern baldness. At Norwood 7, the most advanced stage of hair loss, a single band of hair usually remains on the back and sides of the head and the crown is completely bald. Norwood 6 also appears as almost complete baldness.
In some men, aggressive hair loss can also lead to hair loss at the safe donor site, a condition known as retrograde alopecia. Those who are completely bald are more advanced than any stage of the Norwood Scale and are most likely to have overcome hair loss.
However, being completely bald does not mean you cannot have a hair transplant. You can have healthy and viable hair follicles in your other donor areas.
How Much Hair Can Be Transplanted?
During the hair transplant procedure, a certain number of grafts can be transplanted depending on the density of hair follicles in the donor area. Generally, up to 5000 grafts can be transplanted in one session. This number may vary depending on the condition of the donor area and the needs of the recipient area. The health and quality of the hair follicles in the donor area affects the success of the transplantation process and the natural appearance of the transplanted hair.
Hair Transplant Results
Hair transplant results are usually natural and permanent. The transplanted hair falls out within a few weeks after the procedure, this is a normal process and is called shock shedding. New hair begins to grow approximately 3-4 months after transplantation and full results are observed in 12-18 months. Since the transplanted hair carries the genetic characteristics of the hair in the donor area, it usually does not fall out and lasts a lifetime.
Hair Transplantation and Treatments for Bald People
For bald people, hair transplantation is one of the most effective methods that offer a permanent solution. There are some treatment options other than hair transplantation. These include medication (e.g. minoxidil and finasteride), PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy, hair mesotherapy, laser therapy, exosomes and stem cell hair transplantation. These treatments can slow hair loss and improve the quality of existing hair. Before making a hair transplant decision, it is important to discuss all options with a dermatologist or hair transplant specialist.
As a result, hair transplantation offers an effective and long-term solution even for people who are completely bald. The best results can be achieved by considering factors such as donor site condition, the number of grafts needed and post-transplant care. You can contact us for detailed information about hair transplantation and treatments.
