What is Frozen FUE Hair Transplantation?
The primary cause of hair loss is often genetic, though it can also be triggered by factors such as stress, illness, hormonal imbalances, or medications. During a hair transplant, a skilled surgeon extracts hair follicles from the back of the head and transplants them to areas affected by thinning or baldness.
In the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) technique, hair follicles are transplanted one by one. The Frozen FUE method, however, preserves the extracted follicles in a special freezing solution, extending their viability. This preservation ensures the follicles remain healthy and viable for longer, thus improving the overall efficiency of the transplantation process.
How is Frozen FUE Performed?
Frozen FUE hair transplantation is performed in three primary steps:
- Extraction of Hair Follicles
- Opening of Channels
- Transplantation of Follicles into the Channels
How Are Hair Follicles Collected?
In the first step, the scalp is shaved to ensure optimal preparation for the procedure. Afterward, local anesthesia is administered to ensure the process is painless. The extraction of hair follicles typically takes 2-4 hours. Once the follicles are extracted, the treated area is covered with a special bandage to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
How Are the Channels Opened?
After the patient is positioned on their back, a specialized device known as a micro-pen is used to create small, precise channels in the balding area. These channels serve as the placement sites for the transplanted hair follicles.
How Are Hair Follicles Transplanted?
The extracted hair follicles, which are stored in the Frozen-PLT graft solution, are carefully placed into the prepared channels. This transplantation step usually takes an additional 2-4 hours.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Frozen FUE Hair Transplantation?
Frozen FUE hair transplantation is suitable for a variety of patients, including:
- Individuals with male-pattern baldness, especially those with hair on the back and sides of the head.
- Women experiencing hair loss due to various causes.
- Patients with hair loss resulting from scalp injuries or burns.
However, Frozen FUE may not be ideal for:
- Individuals with diffuse hair loss (thinning across the entire scalp).
- Patients who do not have a sufficient number of hair follicles in the donor area.
- Individuals with thick, fibrous scars from previous scalp injuries or burns.
- Patients experiencing hair loss due to medications (e.g., chemotherapy).
What Should Be Considered After Frozen FUE Hair Transplantation?
Frozen FUE hair transplantation typically takes 4-8 hours. After the procedure, patients are discharged the same day. Prior to discharge, they will be given detailed instructions on post-operative care, including medication and aftercare procedures.
- 24-48 hours post-procedure: The bandage is changed, and the first hair wash is performed under clinical supervision. Patients are also taught how to wash their hair at home.
- 7-10 days after surgery: The scabs from the transplanted area typically fall off. During this period, the scalp is particularly sensitive, so following the doctor’s medication and care instructions is crucial to reduce the risk of infection.
- Physical Activity: After the procedure, patients should avoid strenuous activities (such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise) for a few weeks to prevent any complications.
- Clothing: It is recommended to wear clothing with buttons or zippers to avoid friction around the transplanted area.
- Recovery Time: Most patients can return to their normal routine within 2-5 days. However, the transplanted hair will shed within 2-6 weeks, and new hair growth will typically begin within 6-9 months. By this time, about 60% of the new hair will start to grow.
