At We Grow Hair, we want our patients to have answers to their questions. That’s why we have compiled this exhaustive list of hair restoration FAQ’s. If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us so we can help!
Answers in a Nutshell
In Depth Answers
FAQs about a Hair Transplant
A hair transplant is a procedure where healthy growing hair is moved to balding areas. [learn more]
Yes! Hair is moved from the back of your own head to balding areas. It continues to grow and needs to be cut and styled just as it did before the procedure.
No, your body will reject another person’s hair unless it is an identical twin!
You will experience some redness after the procedure. Small scabs will form around the transplanted hairs. They will remain for about 5 days until they start to fall off. By the 10th day the scabs will be completely gone.
Doctors use a mild anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Afterwards, you will be prescribed a pain killer for discomfort in the harvesting area, however, many patients simply use Tylenol instead.
Yes, the hair is harvested from the “safe zone”. Transplanted hairs are genetically resistant to DHT and will retain their attributes after the move.
We can only speak for the doctors here at PAI / We Grow Hair. A hair transplant requires the artistic skill of a well trained surgeon. Angle, direction and placement are extremely important in a hair transplant. When done correctly, the newly transplanted hair will look completely natural. Ten days after the procedure, no one will ever know you had it done.
You should plan to take at least 2 or 3 days to rest after your procedure. Within the first week you can start wearing a clean loose fitting hat. You can also use hair fibers to conceal the procedure.
Results from a hair transplant can be seen as early as 3 or 4 months!
This is an often debated issue among hair transplant surgeons, because it's difficult to predict future hair loss. The younger the patient, the more risky the procedure. At We Grow Hair, we recommend that you don't have a procedure before the age of 25.
It's difficult to give you a definitive answer without seeing you in person for a microscopic analysis, but generally, a good candidate is over 30 years old, in good health, has healthy donor hair, and is not completely bald.
In clinics across the United States, a graft contains between 1-4 hairs. Most hair transplant clinics price their hair transplants by the graft. The problem with this approach is that since the numbers of hairs vary, patients don’t know how many hairs are being transplanted. Many clinics separate the tissue into an unusually high number of 1 hair grafts in order to charge more.
The We Grow Hair Levels are measured by the number of hairs, not grafts, and the general area to be covered. This forthright approach is much less confusing to the patient. Generally, We Grow Hair Levels tend to be less expensive per hair than other approaches.
The main difference between FUE and FUT is the way hair is harvested for a transplant. Both have advantages and disadvantages. [FUE/FUT Comparison]
At We Grow Hair, one graft does not mean one hair.
Multi-Unit Hair Grafting: Our physician will harvest grafts containing 1 or more hairs, depending on the area of distribution (single hair grafts belong in the frontal hairline while a variety of graft sizes create density in the vertex and crown). Thus, 2,000 grafts could potentially yield up to 7-8 thousand hairs depending on your density. This number of grafts, well distributed, will produce a natural hairline and the desired density and coverage.
ARTAS: The physician will harvest grafts with robotic assistance. typically a graft contains anywhere from 1- 6 hairs. Thus, 2,300 grafts could potentially yield up to 5,300 hairs, depending on your density.
Multi-Unit Hair Grafting: One of the benefits of Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ is that more hair can be moved in each procedure, thereby minimizing the number of procedures needed to achieve the patient’s desired results. This trademarked procedure allows up to twice the hair volume when compared to traditional FUE or FUT hair transplants. Patients often find that only 1 or 2 procedures are required to meet their objectives even with significant hair loss.
ARTAS: ARTAS is definitely suited for patients with less hair loss. If you have limited hair loss, one procedure might meet your needs, however, for those with advanced hair loss, it may take several procedures to achieve the look you want. There are limitations on how many FUE transplants you can have.
We like to see patients the day after, 10 to 12 days after, 4 to 6 months after and 12 months after. None of these are required but are strongly recommended. If you live away from the office we can meet online or you can send pictures to update us on your hair growth progress.
We will also follow up with you periodically by phone, email or letter throughout the growth process to ensure best results. We strongly recommend patients consider a hair loss management (prevention routine) following the procedure to help maintain the non-transplanted hair. PAI offers FDA approved hair loss management options for hair loss prevention.
Generally, you can return to work within a day or two following your procedure depending on your type of work and comfort level. However, any strenuous exercising or lifting should not be attempted for 14 days after the procedure or until your sutures have been removed. Some patients will decide to take a week off of work for esthetic reasons. We can go over your specific situation with you when you visit the office for your evaluation / consultation.
At We Grow Hair, a licensed physician is always present for your hair transplant as well as several trained medical team members.
FAQs about Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™
Is a hair transplant expensive?
The cost of a hair transplant is comparable to most cosmetic procedures ranging from 5K - 16K depending on several factors. We encourage you to schedule a free consultation to find out more. Don't forget to ask about our financing options.
Does it hurt?
Due to anesthesia the procedure is pain free. After the procedure there is moderate discomfort for 24-48 hours. A prescription pain medicine will be prescribed, however many people opt to take Tylenol instead.
How long is the procedure
MUHG is our shortest hair transplant lasting between 3.5 - 5 hours.
Will I have a scar?
Both FUE and FUT produce scars. We Grow Hair uses a specially developed trichophytic closure which leaves a hard-to-see linear scar.
Is it permanent?
Ever notice how elderly people typically lose hair on the top up their head but not the sides or the back? Hair in the back of your head is more resilient and resistant to DHT (a hormone that causes hair loss). During a hair transplant, hair is relocated from the back (the donor area) to balding areas. The donor hair retains its DHT resistant attributes, meaning that it will be as permanent as it was in its original location. In most cases, this means that the hair will remain for a lifetime unless it's affected by medication, disease, or some other unusual circumstance.
When will I see results?
Everyone is different but you can see results as early as 3 to 4 months. You can expect to see final results in 12 to 14 months.
Why would anyone choose MUHG when you also offer FUE?
More hair can be transplanted in one Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ procedure. More hair means less procedures. The ARTAS is not ideal for those with significant hair loss or hair loss in the crown area. The ARTAS procedure is also a larger financial investment.
Will I need a second transplant?
Your expectations, amount of hair loss, and condition of your existing donor hair play a major role in whether you’ll need more than one procedure. Your medical consultant can help you set realistic expectations and develop a plan that's right for you.
Can I dye my hair after a hair transplant?
Yes, you should wait 30 days before you dye your hair after a transplant.
FAQs about The Day of Procedure
Should I eat before the procedure?
Will I be under general anesthesia?
Will I need a ride after the procedure?
Are there special post-op instructions?
Will I need a prescription?
FAQs about ARTAS FUE
Is a hair transplant expensive?
The cost of an ARTAS Robotic FUE hair transplant is more expensive than our Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ Procedure. Hair transplants generally run between 5K-16K. We encourage you to schedule a free consultation to find out more. Don't forget to ask about our financing options.
Does it hurt?
Due to anesthesia the procedure is pain free. After the procedure there is moderate discomfort for 24-48 hours. A prescription pain medicine will be prescribed, however many people opt to take Tylenol instead.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Because a hair transplant is a minor procedure, it does not require general anesthesia. A numbing medication is used to prevent pain, and relaxation medication helps patients feel tranquil during the process.
How long is the procedure
Traditional FUE's are quite lengthy, however, the ARTAS Robotic Transplant is the fastest FUE available. It can take up to 8 hours from start to finish.
Will I have a scar?
As with any FUE procedure, the ARTAS produces small circular scars that are hard to detect. Unlike hand-held devices, the ARTAS uses an advanced algorithm to harvest donor hair more evenly. This prevents over-harvesting which can amplify the visibility of scars in patchy areas.
Is it permanent?
Ever notice how elderly people typically lose hair on the top up their head but not the sides or the back? Hair in the back of your head is more resilient and resistant to DHT (a hormone that causes hair loss). During a hair transplant, hair is relocated from the back (the donor area) to balding areas. The donor hair retains its DHT resistant attributes, meaning that it will be as permanent as it was in its original location. In most cases, this means that the hair will remain for a lifetime unless it's affected by medication, disease, or some other unusual circumstance.
When will I see results?
Everyone is different but you can see results as early as 3 to 4 months. You can expect to see final results in 12 to 14 months.
Why would anyone choose MUHG when you also offer FUE?
More hair can be transplanted in one Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ procedure. More hair means less procedures. The ARTAS is not ideal for those with significant hair loss or hair loss in the crown area. The ARTAS procedure is also a larger financial investment.
Will I need a second transplant?
Your expectations, amount of hair loss, and condition of your existing donor hair play a major role in whether you’ll need more than one procedure. Your medical consultant can help you set realistic expectations and develop a plan that's right for you.
FAQs about FUT vs. FUE
Although MUHG is less expensive, why is it We Grow Hair's preferred procedure?
We want what's best for our patients. Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ gives patients twice as much hair, which is more satisfying, and the results are soft and natural-looking. When our patients are happy, we are happy.
Why does FUE deliver less hair?
When compared to FUT, all FUE procedures harvest less hair, even ARTAS Robotic FUE. With FUE, each follicle is painstakingly harvested one at a time, limiting the number of hairs that can be gathered in a single session. It's interesting to note that due to our trademarked harvesting technique, MUHG outperforms both FUE and all other FUT techniques.
Why do some people prefer FUE?
The main reason for choosing FUE over FUT is to avoid a suture line, which means no linear scar and a quicker recovery.
How does ARTAS compare to other FUE procedures?
An ARTAS procedure is faster, it harvests hair more evenly due to an advanced algorithm, it creates less transection (hair destruction), and the staff is less fatigued because it is robotic.
FAQs about Hair Plugs
What experience do your surgeons have?
Our surgeons are all M.D.’s who are members of ISHRS. The naturalness of a transplant depends greatly on the surgeon’s artistic and surgical skill level. If a surgeon is inexperienced, even with the newest techniques, a hair transplant can still look pluggy.
Who actually performs the surgery?
Unlike some clinics that allow unlicensed medical staff to perform hair transplants, PAI Medical Group only uses licensed Medical Doctors to perform your surgery. Our licensed surgeons are primarily responsible for each and every step during a hair transplant procedure. Plus, you benefit from an entire skilled medical team as well.
Why do some clinics still do pluggy hair transplants?
Most of today’s hair transplants no longer look pluggy. If they do, it’s because some clinics use older techniques while other clinics use surgeons who are not experienced or artistically skilled. Some surgeons place grafts too far apart or place larger grafts in the frontal hairline.
How is your staff unique?
The majority of our staff has worked together for 10 or more years. That contributes to their efficiency, speed and natural-looking outcome.
FAQs about Scars
Will hair grow in the scar?
Yes, most patients get 50-80% growth in the scar which is enough to adequately camouflage the scar’s appearance.
Is everyone a candidate?
Not everyone is a candidate for this type of procedure. If the scar is not vascular, hair follicles will not survive due to diminished blood supply beneath the surface of the skin. The scar may be too wide and deep for hair restoration to be successful. A consultation is the only way to determine whether or not this type of scar correction is right for you.
How long is the procedure?
Unlike a regular hair transplant, an FUE scar correction is relatively short taking approximately one hour.
Is there a chance surgical correction will not be a success?
In rare cases where there is no improvement in the scar’s appearance, we can use FUE to harvest the hair, eliminating a linear scar altogether, and implant harvested hair follicles directly into the scar. This alternative procedure would be done at a discount.
Is SMP a permanent solution?
SMP is a semi-permanent solution as it begins to fade after approximately 10 years.
FAQs about Laser Therapy
Does it hurt?
No! There is no sensation of warmth or pain associated with laser therapy at all. It is a completely painless treatment.
is it really FDA approved?
Is it effective?
Laser therapy is extremely effective. It stabilizes hair loss, promotes hair growth, and makes existing hair healthier, thicker and shinier.
When will I see results?
Everyone is different but most people can see results as early as 4-6 weeks.
How does it work?
Soft laser light increases blood circulation, which delivers nutrients to the hair follicles.
Is it safe for all hair types and skin tones?
Laser therapy has no side effects for any hair type/skin tone.
Is it expensive
We Grow Hair offers several different affordable options for laser therapy patients.
Can it be used in conjunction with other hair restoration modalities?
Laser Therapy complements any hair restoration transplant or treatment offered at We Grow Hair. It's also known to speed up the healing process after a transplant, and works in tandem with any type of hair restoration to make hair thicker, healthier and shinier.
What if I can't come to the office?
We Grow Hair offers a very effective laser cap program that can be done at home.
FAQs about Plasma Therapy
Does it Hurt?
The healing fluid is separated from your own blood and re-injected into the scalp. Regular injections can be uncomfortable, however, we are one of the few clinics in Tennessee to offer an alternative to traditional needles. We use a robust delivery device/gun that distributes the fluid evenly and rapidly, eliminating much of the pain that is normally associated with this type of procedure.
Will I see results?
We use several non-surgical treatments to slow, stop, or reverse hair loss. Plasma Therapy is used to give your hair the best possible growing environment. Everyone is different but some see a change in their hair health as early as 2-4 months. A patient typically plateaus at 6-12 months.
How often does it have to be done?
For best results, a patient should have 2 to 6 treatments. Each treatment should be administered 30 to 45 days apart. After that, maintenance should take place 1-2 times a year.
FAQs about SMP
Is it natural-looking?
The pigment is matched to the color of your hair, which makes it very difficult to distinguish between real hair and SMP.
Are We Grow Hair technicians experienced?
We Grow Hair always strives to use the best techniques in hair restoration. That's why we are proud to partner with Good Look Ink, the largest SMP provider in the United States. GLI pioneered the SMP treatment.
Is SMP painful?
Although there is an element of mild discomfort, it is surprisingly comfortable.
How long does SMP last?
Is SMP expensive?
Is SMP good for all skin types?
Can SMP be used with other hair restoration modalities?
SMP is a great procedure to be used in conjunction with other hair restoration modalities. It's extremely effective in camouflaging a thinning scalp or hiding scars from a transplant. It won't interfere with laser, plasma treatments, prescriptions, or topical products.