Hair loss is a prevalent issue that impacts both genders. Our hair becomes less thicker and thinner as we age; for some, this might even result in baldness. Fortunately, there are various ways to stop hair loss; PRP therapy (platelet-rich plasma) and hair transplants are two of the most often used methods. It’s critical to understand the differences, advantages, and relevance of each hair loss treatment before choosing between the two. Here is a thorough comparison to assist you in making the right choice.
Hair Transplants
Although hair transplants have been performed since the 1950s, new developments have improved the outcomes. Hair follicles are surgically extracted from one area of the body (often the back or sides of the scalp) and transplanted to sections of the body that are losing their hair. This procedure is a good, long-term option to treat hair loss.
There are two main methods for performing hair transplants: follicular unit extraction and follicular unit transplant.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
To promote hair growth in balding areas, a hair transplant technique called follicular unit extraction (FUE) uses small hair implants. Hair shafts from the donor area—usually the back or sides of the scalp—are individually plucked and then implanted to the receding areas of the scalp. A micro-pinch tool is used to remove hair follicles one by one. Next, the harvested follicles are inserted into the recipient area using microscopic incisions.
The expert finishes by cleaning and bandaging the skin. In the following four to six months, you begin to witness results; after one year, the effects reach the peak of their effectiveness.
Who is a good candidate for FUE?
The donor site should have enough hair. Patients who have thick hair in the back but are having hair loss in front of the head or a receding hairline are the most suitable candidates for a FUE. Due to relatively low scarring, FUE is the greatest transplant option for men who keep short hair. This procedure is best suited to patients who prefer quick recovery with minimum downtime.
FUE treatments produce results that mimic natural-looking hair and are thus a very popular option among patients.
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
FUT hair transplant procedure is minimally invasive. The surgeon removes a strip of skin from the side or back of the head that has healthy hair growth. Usually, this strip is between one and two centimetres wide. Local anaesthesia is administered to the patients during the procedure. The skin strip is examined under a microscope by the surgeon, who subsequently removes the healthy hair follicles. To keep these follicular units fresh and ready for use, they are submerged in cold saline. The cut is closed, and a linear scar will form when it heals. The follicles are thus implanted in the recipient site of the scalp.
It usually takes three to four months for transplanted follicles to sprout. You may notice more hair loss in the first 2-8 weeks. But the good news is that the newly sprouted hair usually grows back stronger and healthier. Patients may require more than one treatment to reach the desired hair density, depending on the severity of their hair loss. To reach the appropriate length, each transplant may take 9-18 months. A linear scar is formed in the donor area in FUT that becomes apparent when hair is cut extremely short. It usually needs longer to recover from than FUE.
Who is a good candidate for FUT?
People with a high percentage of balding on their scalp and seeking maximum hair fullness should prefer the FUT procedure. Moreover, FUT might be an ideal option for those who are experiencing crown baldness.
However, the most important thing to note here is that both the hair transplant procedures, FUE and FUT have Long-lasting results with healthy, thought-to-be-permanent hair growth. In a single session, FUT may remove a sizable number of grafts. Because of the increased follicle yield, it is often less expensive than FUE.
How to make the right choice between FUT and FUE?
Level of Hair Loss:
FUE: Optimal for smaller regions of hair loss or when a scar-free, natural appearance is preferred.
FUT: Better suited for severe hair loss that calls for more grafts.
Lifestyle and preferences:
FUE: Sought after by people who want less noticeable scarring and a speedier recovery.
FUT: Helpful if a larger graft yield is desired, especially by individuals who do not mind a lengthier recovery period and possible linear scarring.
Cost
FUE: More expensive per graft because the process is extensive.
FUT: Because many grafts may be harvested at once, this process is frequently more affordable for longer treatments.
It’s important to speak with a hair transplant professional to find out which approach best suits your hair loss pattern, scalp type, and personal preferences.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Your blood is used in PRP therapy to stimulate natural hair growth and enrich the hair shafts. Since the 1980s, PRP has been used to treat musculoskeletal problems; in recent years, it has been applied to cosmetic purposes as well.
A sample is taken first, and it is then processed. Growth factors found in abundance in the sample will promote the body’s natural healing process. After that, application sites are injected with the sample.
PRP has demonstrated a high degree of patient approval in hair restoration. The procedure uses your blood, so there’s less chance of a negative reaction. Discomfort and redding at the application site are typical adverse effects. These symptoms are normal and should go away in due course. According to the studies, PRP is incredibly effective at stimulating hair growth, showing “significant increases” in both hair density and hair count.
Who is the best candidate for PRP?
The option is ideal for people with early hair loss or thinning hair. Because it uses the patient’s blood, it is suitable for most people. It is frequently applied as a prophylactic or in combination with other therapies.
The process usually needs multiple treatments spread out over a few months. The results of the treatment vary from one to another. To maintain outcomes, periodic maintenance treatments are required.
Evaluating the Best Choice: Hair Transplant or PRP
Evaluation of the following pointers will help patients make an informed and right choice regarding the best procedure for their requirements.
Think About Your Hair Loss Stage:
A hair transplant may be a better option if you have extensive thinning or balding in certain places of your body.
PRP therapy is a great approach to increasing hair density and slowing the course of hair loss if it’s just starting.
Consider Your Lifestyle and Health:
Getting a hair transplant involves a larger commitment, including surgery and recovery time.
PRP therapy is appropriate for people with hectic schedules because it is less intrusive and requires less downtime.
Considering the Budget:
Hair transplants provide a permanent cure, but they are typically more expensive upfront.
PRP therapy involves recurring treatments but is less expensive each session.
Consulting a dermatologist or hair loss specialist in can assist you in figuring out the best course of action given your unique circumstances and objectives. PRP hair treatment and hair transplants are effective therapies to treat hair loss, but which is best for a given set of circumstances, degree of hair loss, and personal preferences will vary.
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