If you’re considering a hair transplant, it’s only natural to have lots of questions for your surgeon at your first consultation. You may be unsure of what to ask before hair transplants, or worried about forgetting something important. We’ve put together our guide to the most important questions to ask at your hair transplant consultation – read on to find out more.
Am I a suitable candidate for hair transplant surgery?
The first thing that your surgeon will assess is if you are a suitable candidate for hair transplant surgery. Suitability is based upon a number of factors, including age, pre-existing health conditions and your hair itself. Even if you are not suitable for surgery, your surgeon may be able to recommend alternative therapies to help regain or slow the loss of your hair.
What qualifications does my surgeon have?
It is incredibly important to ensure your hair transplant surgeon has the relevant training, qualifications, and experience to make your surgery safe and successful. If you are having your transplant in the UK, make sure your surgeon is registered with the GMC (General Medical Council), and ask if they are affiliated with any professional bodies such as the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
What do I need to do before my surgery?
Depending on the type of surgery you opt for, you may have to undertake some preoperative preparation. This could include not using hair products in the days before your surgery, or using specialist hair care treatments as advised by your surgeon.
What will the surgery be like?
Depending on the size of the area being treated, your FUE hair transplant may take anywhere from a few hours, two sessions spanning a couple of days. It’s important to get an idea of how long the transplant will take so you can take time away from work and other responsibilities. You may also want to ask how pain will be managed, how many people will be in the room, and how the transplant is carried out.
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How much recovery time is needed?
Recovery time for an FUE hair transplant is generally around 2 weeks, during which time your transplants will scab over and fall out. During this recovery period, you’ll need to follow guidelines from your surgeon about exercise, hair products and sleeping positions to give your hair transplant the best chance of healing correctly. Your surgeon will be able to tell you more and advise you on anything specific to your case.
Can I see any patient testimonials?
Patient testimonials and before and after pictures are a great way to get a feel of how other patients have found their hair transplant experience. Having multiple, positive reviews is a good sign that your surgeon is skilled and has many happy patients. Take a look at our patient testimonials for further information.
Is an FUE or FUT transplant more suitable for me?
There are two types of hair transplant – the more modern FUE, where individual hair follicles are removed and transplanted, and FUT, where a strip of hair is removed and transplanted.
Generally, FUE is the preferred option for a hair transplant as it reduces scarring and recovery time, but it is worth conducting your own research to find out which method you would prefer. The questions to ask FUE doctors will be the same as for a FUT doctor, but the answers may differ depending on what surgery type you choose.
How long will it take to see the results of my transplant?
The results of a hair transplant are not instant, and it may take many months before your transplanted hair begins to grow. It is important to make sure that your expectations are managed, so be sure to ask your surgeon about how your hair will grow following surgery.
Will I need a second hair transplant?
Due to the natural thinning of existing hair, you may require further hair transplants in the future. Your surgeon will be able to provide further information on this and discuss potential treatments to slow or prevent hair loss in the future.
How much does a hair transplant cost?
At your first consultation, once your surgeon has been able to take a look at your hair, you’ll be able to get a quote for your surgery. Make sure to ask about any finance options that may be available to you, and when payment will be due.
If you’re considering getting a hair transplant in 2018, why not get in touch to find out more about how Crown Clinic can support you. Get in touch to book your consultation today!