Hair Transplant Cost, Side Effects & Maintenance

Hair loss is one of the most common concerns for men and women across the world. Thinning hair can become a threat to self-esteem and appearance whether it is genetic, hormonal related, as a result of stress or even lifestyle choices. Fortunately, current hair transplant technologies have been found to be a sure way of restoring natural hair.

However, the majority of individuals usually have three major questions to ask before the treatment is administered:

• How much does it cost to have a hair transplant?
• Are there any side effects?
• What do you need to maintain after the procedure?

We can divide it into steps step by step to know what to expect.

What is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant is a medical operation that entails transfer of healthy follicles of hair in one section of the head (typically the rear or sides of the head) to those regions where fatalities or loss of hair is being experienced. The most popular two methods are:

• FUE Hair Transplant (Follicular Unit Extraction): The follicles of the hair are removed and reinserted. Minimal scarring and quicker recovery is known.
• FUT Hair Transplant (Follicular Unit Transplant): A one strip patch of hair is excised and hair follicles are implanted. Less expensive and produces a straight scar, as a rule.

There is a long-term and natural result in both approaches when applied by competent surgeons in a well known hair transplant clinic.

Hair Transplant Cost

The cost of hair transplant varies depending on several factors:

• Number of Grafts Required: The price usually depends on the number of grafts needed. More grafts = higher cost.
• Technique Used (FUE vs FUT): FUE is slightly more expensive due to advanced technology and precision. FUT is generally cheaper but may involve more downtime.
• Clinic & Surgeon’s Experience: A highly experienced surgeon or a clinic with advanced facilities may charge more, but this often ensures better results.
• Geographical Location: The cost of a hair transplant in India is usually lower compared to the US, UK, or Middle East.

Average Hair Transplant Cost (per graft):

• India: ₹30 – ₹200 per graft
• Dubai / Middle East: AED 10 – AED 20 per graft
• USA / UK: $3 – $7 per graft

Average session price in India and in other countries can range between 60,000 and 250,000. Most clinics also have good packages of hair transplant which consist of consultation, surgery and follow up.

Hair Transplant Side Effects

Although hair transplant surgery is deemed to be safe, it is a medical process, and has minor side effects. The majority of them are temporary and disappear through proper care.

Common Side Effects:

• Swelling: The scalp and forehead may slightly be swollen within a few days.
• Itching: Itching of the area that has been transplanted and this can be treated using medication.
• Scabbing & Crusting: Scabs are formed around grafts and fall off.
• Shock Loss: Temporary loss of hair on the already existing hair, which is recovered in months.

Side Effects that are rare (when not performed by expert):

• Infections: Infection can be as a result of poor hygiene or due to an untrained handling.
• Unnatural Hairline: This happens when hairline is done by untrained surgeons.
• Scarring: FUT can cause a linear scarring, whereas FUE causes a dot-like scarring.

The risks are greatly minimized by ensuring that the best hair transplant clinic is used with certified doctors.

Hair Transplant Maintenance

Another myth is that after having a hair transplant, one should not take any further care. Although the new hair that is transplanted is permanent, upkeep is enormous in achieving success in the long term.

Preservation of New Airplanes (First 3–6 Months):

• Take care of your doctor and follow his instructions.
• Do not scratch or touch the transplanted part.
• Apply prescribed drugs and shampoos.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and perspiration during the initial few weeks.
• Smoking and alcohol should be avoided as they slow down healing.

Long-Term Maintenance:

• Eat a healthy diet that is balanced in proteins, vitamins and minerals.
• Wash hair with mild shampoos prescribed by a doctor and do not use a harsh degrading chemical.
• Consistently visit your surgeon to check your progress.
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) can be considered as a strong hair follicle-strengthening therapy.

Note: A hair transplant produces lasting effects, however, bad lifestyle habits such as smoking, stress, and lackadaisical attitude towards taking care of your scalp may influence the quality of your own hair.