The most common type of hair loss in both men and women is referred to as Androgenic Alopecia or Male Pattern Baldness (MPB).
Research has shown that it is hereditary / genetically programmed process, which responds to external stimuli, essentially male hormones. Testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme 5α reductase. It is DHT that acts on in the regions which are susceptible to androgenic alopecia. It appears that androgenic alopecia is under the control of a single dominant sex linked autosomal gene.
Nowadays the onset of baldness occurs at much early age than in father. This probably suggests role of many other factors in addition to genetics. The stressful competitive life style and altered dietary habits (leading to metabolic deficiencies like iron / vitamin deficiencies) have been blamed for this.
The follicles in the affected areas gradually shrink, resulting in fine and lighter growth, ultimately this leads to complete cessation of growth of hair.
Hamilton Norwood classification is the most widely used classification. This divides the Male Pattern Baldness into 7 groups as shown in figure:
Ludwig devised a classification system for the types of androgenic alopecia in women (three types) as shown in figure:
Although there is considerable variation among ethnic groups as far as the average number of hairs is concerned, it is typical that the average individual with a relatively full head has approximately 100000 to 150000 or more hairs growing from the scalp. The density of adult hairs can vary between 100 and 400 per square centimeter i.e. (100 follicular units / sq cm).
The density of about 60 grafts per square cm gives excellent results. To calculate the required number of grafts, measure the area with a measuring tape in square cms.
Number of grafts required = Bald area in sq cms x 60 grafts
e.g. if bald area is 50 sq cms then number of grafts required is 50 x 60 = 3000 grafts
The number of required grafts varies according to many factors-
This can be planned only after you are seen by us. As per your age, the pattern will be planned out so that results are naturally fitting to your chronological age.
Hair transplant is carried out under local anesthesia and you will remain quite comfortable both during and after the procedure. The ambience remains cool and calm. The procedure may also be carried out under general anesthesia as per your preference.
After the procedure you will be prescribed antibiotic or pain killers for few days (usually 5 days). You will be able to go home on the same day or you may choose to stay overnight.
You will develop a layer of scab (that protects the hairs from shearing). The scab falls off in 1-2 weeks period. The shafts of transplanted hairs also fall off (in technical term this is called effluvium), but the roots remain inside. New hairs (normal, natural hairs) start growing about 3 months after procedure. During this period you may notice small red itchy points over the transplanted site which indicates that hairs are growing out of your skin. The density of transplanted hairs may be thinner initially in totally bald areas, which gradually increases over the time. It usually takes 6 to 9 months to appreciate the results of a hair transplant. You can comb the hairs in desired style. You will need to get them regularly cut / shaven. They will grow back.
If a second / subsequent session is planned, it must be at least 3 to 6 months after the first session.