Although the finished result of a hair transplant is something to get very excited about, there is a lot of thinking that needs to be done beforehand – after all, this is a major aesthetic procedure, and one that should be conducted by a master specialist who shares your vision. Here are some key considerations to know, understand and process before undertaking a hair transplant procedure:
FUE or FUT?
The more original form of hair transplantation is follicular unit transplantation, or FUT, also called the strip method. This involves taking a strip of hair from the donor site and implanting it into the thinning or balding area. The hair follicles or grafts are then microscopically dissected from the strip and placed in the recipient area. The area where the strip was removed is closed using modern trichophytic donor closure techniques. When done properly, the scar is very fine and easily covered by the existing surrounding hair.
The FUE method, or follicular unit extraction, works by excising one hair follicle at a time from the donor area using a very small circular scalpel. These follicles are then transplanted one by one into the recipient area. When done properly and using the proper tools, these incisions are so tiny that once healed cannot be seen with the naked eye. This is why the FUE method of hair transplantation is sometimes called ‘virtually scarless’.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of a hair transplant varies depending on what the patient desires, the difficulty of the operation, graft extraction numbers, and whether additional treatments are needed. The best way to determine the cost for your hair transplant procedure is to meet with a hair restoration surgeon for a consultation. During the consultation, make sure to estimate a reliable graft and overall price quote.
What If…?
The ‘what if’ question often goes unasked, but it is just as important as all the others. The ‘what if’ question relates to any risks associated with the procedure. Find out what they are, and what the clinic’s policy is regarding what happens if something goes wrong. It is a very rare thing, but every surgery has its risks, and hair transplantation is no different.
What Happens Next?
You must be prepared to carry out an aftercare regime once your initial procedure has been carried out. This is very important, as it will aid in the healing process and optimize your hair restoration goals. Find out all the details and be sure that you can stick to the plan before undergoing surgery.
What Will It Look Like?
If you are considering having a hair transplant, you will most likely have imagined and dreamed of what the final result will look like. Talk these ideas through with your surgeon and find out whether the look you want is achievable. You don’t want to be disappointed when you wake up from surgery, so this is an important discussion to have beforehand.

Dr. Amir Yazdan, MD, is an internationally renowned hair transplant surgeon, expert guest on Dr. Phil and The Doctors, creator of the GroMD hair restoration product line, ISHRS member, accredited member of the IAHRS and a visceral advocate for patient care. Learn more about Dr. Yazdan or read rave reviews from his patients.