FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Got questions? We've got answers.
To assist you in understanding the complexities of the hair transplant procedure, we've compiled our most frequently asked questions to guide and inform your decision-making process.
How much is a hair transplant?
The cost of a hair transplant can vary widely, based on the clinic location, experience and qualifications of the doctor or technician and type of hair transplant procedure itself. But primarily the cost varies based on the amount of hairs relocated during the procedure. At Gro, our pricing structure is a bit different to other clinics. Visit our Pricing page for an in-depth discussion on the factors that surround the cost of hair transplants.Â
It's important to keep in mind that cost should not be the only factor when choosing a hair transplant doctor. It's essential to research the doctor’s credentials, experience, and before-and-after results, as well as to discuss realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.Â
How do hair transplants work?
Hair transplants are a procedure that involves removing hair follicles from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the head, where hair is more resistant to DHT damage) and transplanting them to areas where hair has stopped growing or thinned out.Â
There are three main types of hair transplant procedures: follicular unit transplantation (FUT), follicular unit extraction (FUE) & Precise Follicle Placement (PFP) which is the method we use here at Gro.Â
In FUT, a strip of the scalp containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area and divided into individual follicular units under a microscope. These units are then transplanted into the recipient area using small incisions made in the scalp.Â
In FUE, individual follicular units are extracted directly from the donor area using a small punch tool, leaving tiny scars that are virtually invisible. The extracted follicles are then transplanted into the recipient area in the same way as in FUT.Â
Gro's PFP technique is a top-tier and finely tuned approach that blends micro-FUE and direct implantation methods. The process involves using a punch tool with a diameter smaller than 1mm to extract individual hair follicles. At Gro, our doctors perform this minimally invasive extraction technique from start to finish, ensuring consistent and superior results.Â
Immediately after the procedure the new hairline is visible and the newly transplanted hairs continue to grow. Around 2 months after the procedure the transplanted hairs begin to shed to make room for new hair growth. This is a normal process and no cause for concern. Most Gro patients will begin to see their transplanted hairs thickening up by 3 to 4 months post procedure, however it can take up to 12 months to see full results.Â
The results of a hair transplant can vary depending on various factors such as the quality of the donor hair, the skill of the hair transplant doctor, and the patient's overall health and healing ability. It's important to have realistic expectations and discuss any concerns with a hair restoration specialist.Â
How long does a hair transplant last?
A hair transplant is generally considered to be a permanent solution to hair loss. However, the results of a hair transplant can vary from person to person and depend on various factors, such as the type of procedure, the quality of the donor hairs, and the patient's overall health and hair care habits. Â
After the transplanted hair follicles have healed and started to grow, they should continue to produce hair for the rest of the patient's life. However, it's important to note that the patient's natural hair may continue to thin or fall out due to genetic factors or other causes. Therefore, some patients may need additional hair transplant procedures in the future to maintain their desired hair density.Â
It's also important to note that the full results of a hair transplant may not be immediately visible. It can take several months for the transplanted hairs to start growing and up to a year or more for the final results to be fully realised. Regular follow-up appointments with your Gro Clinic specialist can help monitor the progress and ensure the best possible outcome.Â
Are hair transplants painful?Â
Hair transplant procedures typically involve some degree of discomfort or pain, but most patients report that the pain is manageable and well-tolerated. The level of pain experienced can vary depending on the individual's pain tolerance, the type of procedure performed, and the techniques used by the hair transplant doctor.Â
During the hair transplant procedure at Gro, patients are given local anesthesia to numb the scalp, so they should not feel any discomfort during the treatment itself. However, patients may experience some discomfort during the healing process, which can last for several days to a week after the procedure.Â
Common post-procedure discomforts may include tenderness, swelling, and mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed pain relief medication. Some patients may also experience itching or a tingling sensation as the new hair grows in.Â
It's important to follow the post-procedure instructions provided by our hair transplant doctors to minimise discomfort and promote healing. If the pain or discomfort persists or becomes severe, patients should contact the clinic immediately.Â
Do hair transplant have side effects?Â
Hair transplant procedures are generally considered safe and effective, but like any medical procedure, they can have potential side effects and risks. Some common side effects of hair transplant treatment may include:Â
Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience some level of pain and discomfort during and after the procedure. This can typically be managed with medication.Â
Swelling: Swelling in the scalp and forehead area is a common side effect that typically resolves within a few days after the procedure.Â
Infection: Infection is a rare but possible side effect of any medical procedure. Patients should carefully follow the post-procedure instructions provided by the hair transplant doctor to minimise the risk of infection.Â
Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal during the procedure, but excessive bleeding can occur in rare cases.Â
Scarring: Any medical procedure can leave scars, and hair transplant procedures are no exception. However, skilled hair transplant doctors can minimise scarring by using advanced techniques. Thanks to the innovative tools and techniques used in hair transplant treatment at Gro, and the skill of the doctors performing the procedure, visible scarring is no longer an inevitable aspect of the hair transplant process.Â
Folliculitis: Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles that can occur after a hair transplant. It typically resolves on its own within a few weeks.Â
Shock loss: Shock loss refers to the temporary shedding of transplanted hair after the procedure. This is a normal part of the healing process and the hair typically grows back within a few months.Â
It's important for patients to discuss the potential risks and side effects of hair transplant procedures with their doctor before undergoing the procedure. By carefully following the post-procedure instructions and working with a skilled hair transplant doctor, patients can minimise the risk of complications and achieve the best possible results.Â
What does a hair transplant look like?Â
Immediately after a hair transplant, the transplanted area of the scalp may appear red and swollen. The scalp may also be covered in small scabs or crusts, which will fall off within a few days to a week after the procedure.Â
Within the first few weeks after the hair transplant, the transplanted hairs may fall out. This is a normal part of the healing process and should not be a cause for concern. New hair growth should start to appear within a few months after the procedure.Â
After several months, the transplanted hair should start to look more natural and blend in with the surrounding hair. The full results of a hair transplant may not be fully visible until up to a year or more after the procedure, as the hair continues to grow and mature.Â
At Gro, we believe in transparency and our Gro Diaries are the perfect way to showcase the entire hair transplant journey of our actual patients. Click here to view our latest patient journeys in the Gro Diaries!Â
What is FUE hair transplant?Â
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) is a traditional hair transplant procedure that involves the extraction of individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp using a specialised punch tool. The extracted follicles are then transplanted into the recipient area of the scalp, where hair growth has slowed or stopped.Â
FUE places greater emphasis on the number of follicles extracted rather than the survival rate of the follicles or achieving a natural-looking result.  At Gro, we use the Precise Follicle Placement (PFP) method as it is a refined and exceptional technique that blends micro-FUE and direct implantation methods to produce natural and seamless results for clients. Gro's doctors have complete control over the depth, direction, and angle of each transplanted hair follicle, ensuring undetectable results. The use of PFP negates the need for recipient holes, which leads to higher hair density in the treatment area.Â
When do hair transplants start to grow?Â
Hair transplants typically start to grow around 3 to 4 months after the procedure. However, it is important to note that individual results can vary, and some people might experience growth sooner or later than this average timeframe. Full growth and final results are usually visible between 9 to 12 months after the procedure. Factors such as the patient's age, general health, hair type, and post-procedure care can also influence the growth of transplanted hair.
Are hair transplants noticeable?Â
Hair transplants can be noticeable initially after the procedure, as the recipient area may appear red and swollen with visible scabs or crusting.
However, as the healing process progresses and the hair begins to grow, a well-performed hair transplant should look natural and blend seamlessly with the surrounding hair. It is essential to have realistic expectations and consult with a hair growth specialist to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Are hair transplants successful?Â
Hair transplants can be successful, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in hair density and coverage. The success of a hair transplant depends on various factors, including the skill and experience of the hair transplant doctor, the quality of the donor hair, the patient's overall health, and adherence to post-procedure care instructions.
Are you awake during the hair transplant process?Â
Yes, you are typically awake during a hair transplant procedure. Hair transplants are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the scalp to minimise pain and discomfort. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax during the hair transplant treatment. The procedure itself is minimally invasive and does not require general anesthesia or a hospital stay.Â
During the treatment, you will be awake and able to communicate with the medical team. You may experience some discomfort or pressure, but the local anesthesia should prevent you from feeling significant pain. It is not uncommon for patients to listen to music, watch movies, or even take a nap during the procedure.Â
Can a hair transplant fail?Â
Yes, a hair transplant can fail in some cases, although it is relatively rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced and skilled hair transplant doctor. Several factors can contribute to a hair transplant failure, including:Â
Poor graft handling: If the hair follicles are not carefully extracted, preserved, and implanted during the procedure, they may not survive the transplantation process, resulting in poor growth or no growth at all.Â
Inadequate blood supply: If the recipient area does not receive sufficient blood flow, the transplanted grafts may not receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen, leading to poor growth or graft failure.Â
Infection: Post-operative infections can damage the transplanted grafts and impair the healing process, leading to poor results.Â
Patient factors: Some patients may have a higher risk of hair transplant failure due to factors such as poor general health, smoking, or inadequate aftercare.Â
Scarring or fibrosis: If the patient has excessive scarring or fibrosis in the recipient area, it can impair the survival of the transplanted grafts.Â
Can body hair be used for transplant?Â
Yes, body hair can be used for hair transplantation in some cases. This is known as body hair transplantation (BHT) or body-to-scalp hair transplantation. BHT is typically considered when a patient has insufficient donor hair on their scalp for a traditional hair transplant. We do not perform BHT's at Gro.
Body hair, such as from the beard, chest, or limbs, can be harvested and transplanted to areas of the scalp with hair loss. However, there are a few factors to consider when using body hair for transplantation:Â
Hair characteristics: Body hair may have different texture, color, and growth rate compared to scalp hair. This may affect the overall aesthetic outcome of the transplant.Â
Follicle survival: Body hair follicles may have a lower survival rate compared to scalp hair follicles when transplanted, which can impact the success of the procedure.Â
Expertise: BHT is a more specialised procedure, and it is essential to find a hair transplant doctor with experience in performing body hair transplants for optimal results.Â
While body hair can be used for transplantation, it is generally considered a secondary option, and scalp hair remains the preferred donor source when available.Â
Can hair transplant be done without shaving?Â
Yes, hair transplantation can be performed without shaving the entire head in some cases. This technique is known as unshaven hair transplantation or "no-shave" hair transplantation. In this procedure, only the donor area is trimmed, and the recipient area remains unshaven, allowing the existing hair to camouflage the transplanted area during the recovery process.Â
The two main hair transplantation methods, Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), can both be adapted for unshaven hair transplantation. However, it's important to note that not every patient is a suitable candidate for this technique. The suitability depends on factors such as the amount of hair to be transplanted, the patient's hair characteristics, and the hair transplant doctor's expertise.Â
Performing a hair transplant without shaving can be more challenging and time-consuming for the hair transplant doctor, as it requires precise and careful handling of the hair grafts. Additionally, this technique may not be as widely available and could be more expensive compared to traditional hair transplantation methods.Â
If you're interested in a no-shave hair transplant, it's essential to consult hair growth advisor to discuss your options and determine if you're a suitable candidate.Â