JOHN: Hey
Jonathan, first of all I just wanted to thank you for taking the time from your
day to answer some questions about hair transplantation.
JONATHAN: No problem John, I’m excited to let people know
about it and the terrific work Dr. Neiman does.
JOHN: So what is
hair transplantation?
JONATHAN: It is a surgical procedure
where individual hair follicles unaffected by heredity are taken from the back of the scalp,
referred to as the donor site, and moved to bald or balding areas where they
will continue to grow.
JOHN: Is it
permanent?
JONATHAN: It is the ONLY permanent solution to hair loss.
Hair will continue to grow for a lifetime.
JOHN: So after
the procedure is completed, will it be obvious that a patient had one done?
JONATHAN: After the grafts are placed, red scabs will appear
as the grafts settle into the scalp. The scabs are most noticeable for
the first 10-14 days, but with saline soaks to the scalp at least three times a
day and avoiding trauma to the scalp, the scabs will come off. There will
be a lighter pinkish hue that is left behind, which is only noticeable if you
mention you had a procedure done. A lot of people just choose to wear a
hat during this time frame.
JOHN: Can a graft
ever fall out?
JONATHAN: If there is trauma caused to the scalp, such as
banging your head on something within a few days after the procedure or heavy
lifting, then yes it can happen. After the procedure, we will give you a
sheet on how to properly preserve the graft, and if it does happen to fall out
it is rather easy to reinsert into the scalp.
JOHN: Should
patients consider taking time off of work?
JONATHAN: Most people take off a week from work, but it is
not necessary, it depends on the job. Some people need only a day or two
to rest up.
JOHN: Since it is
a surgical procedure, will there be any scarring noticeable at the “donor
site?”
JONATHAN: The surrounding hair around the “donor site”
covers the scar, even if someone were to “thumb” through your hair, they would
have to have a trained eye and really know what to look for.
JOHN: When will
someone first notice growth after their procedure?
JONATHAN: Well John, hair gradually grows about a ½” every
month after a dormant 3 month period, so some individuals may first notice
growth in as little as 5-6 months. I would say for the most part to
expect about one full year to truly evaluate the progress.
*If you have any questions you would like to ask Sitdown with John & Jon, e-mail us
at neimandermatology@gmail.com.
