The truth of the matter is that every male hair loss study is unique. No study is one-size-fits-all, and the details vary depending on a number of factors, such as the goal of the study and the techniques and treatments being reviewed.
For example, one method may involve follicular unit transplantation (FUT). During this procedure, a doctor extracts hair follicles from areas of the scalp where hair is fuller and places them on balding areas on the top of the scalp. Typically, this is the back and sides of the scalp where the hair is more resistant to balding. After the hair transplant, doctor places anesthesia on the patient’s scalp and then removes a small strip of tissue from the donor area. Next, the doctor uses microscopic dissection techniques to cut the harvested hair follicles into several tiny sections to prepare for the transplant.
The final step of FUT involves the doctor making small incisions in the scalp called recipient sites to place the hair. Each follicle contains up to four hairs. Once in place, the transplanted follicular units mimic the way the patient’s hair grows naturally. That means the new hair is nearly indistinguishable from the existing hair. With earlier forms of hair transplant surgery for male hair loss, doctors transplanted follicles containing multiple strands. This procedure earned the unfortunate name of hair plugs because it resulted in uneven distribution of hair and an unnatural appearance.
As mentioned above, FUT uses a broader area to harvest follicular units for transplant, which allows doctors to transfer more hair groups that are also of a higher quality than those used in FUE. One of the main disadvantages of the procedure is the scarring left behind and the longer recovery time. The method is most appropriate for older men with male pattern baldness whereas FUE is often the better solution for younger men who are very physically active. The right technique ultimately depends on the type of male hair loss.
If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious of your male hair loss and have been trying to disguise it yourself, then schedule a consultation to learn more about the studies that we have available at DeNova Research in Chicago. Contact us today to book an appointment.
