NeoGraft FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant is one of the newest techniques indicated for hair loss or pattern baldness. It uses a machine called the NeoGraft Automated Hair Transplant System to speed up the process of extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp and implanting them into areas of hair loss. Unlike traditional hair transplant methods, NeoGraft hair transplant automates the hair transplantation process. Here are the key facts about this treatment to help you make informed decisions regarding this hair transplant procedure.
Increases Hair Density and Volume
A NeoGraft hair transplant at Nitai Clinic in Melbourne involves harvesting hair follicles from a donor area. Depending on the amount of existing hair, hair follicles can be harvested from the back or sides of the scalp. The harvested follicles are then transplanted into areas of the scalp with hair loss. Depending on the quality of donor hair, surgical technique, and patient’s adherence to postoperative instructions, the transplanted hair follicles undergo a maturation process, and an increase in hair density and volume becomes noticeable after 12-18 months.
Produces Permanent Results
NeoGraft procedure involves extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp and implanting them into areas of hair loss. Once transplanted, the hair follicles initially rely on the existing blood supply in the recipient area to grow and survive. Over time, the hair follicles begin to establish a blood supply through a process known as neovascularisation or angiogenesis – this refers to the growth of new blood vessels into the transplanted tissue from the surrounding capillaries. As time passes, the new blood vessels integrate with the transplanted tissue, allowing them to supply oxygen and essential nutrients to the transplanted hair follicles. With adequate blood supply, the transplanted hair follicles begin to grow in the treated area like normal hair, thus producing permanent results.
Leaves Small, Dot-like Scars
This advanced hair transplant method typically leaves tiny, minimal dot-like scars in the donor area where individual hair follicles are extracted. Newer techniques like FUE use a small circular punch tool to extract individual follicular units (containing 1-4 hair follicles). This technique results in “micro-incisions”, which are very small wounds measuring less than 1 millimetre in diameter. These scars are often barely noticeable, especially when hair grows back over the donor site.
Suitable for Patients with Tight Scalps
NeoGraft hair transplant suits patients with scalp laxity, a condition characterised by tight and non-flexible skin. This scalp tightness can make it challenging to perform the traditional method of hair transplantation known as Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) since this procedure involves the removal of a strip of scalp tissue. Using the traditional method can put extra tension on the surrounding skin of the scalp. Newer techniques such as NeoGraft hair transplant can help prevent significant tension on the scalp as it only involves extracting individual follicular units using a small circular tool, thus eliminating the need to remove a large strip of scalp tissue.
Uses Local Anaesthesia
At Nitai Clinic in Melbourne, local anaesthesia is used during the NeoGraft transplant procedure to minimise patient discomfort. This numbs the scalp and allows patients to remain awake and alert throughout the procedure. However, patients may still feel some sensations, such as pressure or pulling during the hair transplantation process. This is because local anaesthesia blocks pain signals to numb the nerves in the patient’s scalp. However, this numbing medication may not completely eliminate the sensation of movement or touch. It is important to keep in mind that the specific anaesthesia method used may vary depending on the patient’s preferences, the extent of the NeoGraft hair transplant procedure, and the surgeon’s recommendations.
Does not Stop the Age-related Progression of Hair Loss
NeoGraft hair transplant does not stop the natural progression of hair loss due to ageing. Over time, the surrounding native hair may continue to thin or shed due to ongoing genetic factors or other underlying causes of hair loss. Because of this, patients may require additional treatments or maintenance procedures in the future. Undergoing these treatments can help address any ongoing hair loss.
Reduces Trauma to the Scalp
The NeoGraft transplant procedure results in reduced trauma to the patient’s scalp primarily due to the specific technique it employs, known as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Traditional hair transplant methods known as Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) cause more scalp trauma as they remove a strip of scalp tissue from the donor area. On the other hand, NeoGraft hair transplant does not involve the removal of a strip of scalp tissue as it extracts individual hair follicles directly from the donor area using a small circular punch tool. This results in tiny, microscopic wounds measuring less than 1 millimetre in diameter. Furthermore, the automated technology used in NeoGraft hair transplant allows for precise extraction and implantation of follicles, thus further reducing scalp trauma.
Not for Everyone
Candidates for NeoGraft hair transplant are seeking to make aesthetic changes to their hair. The procedure can help address hair loss or thinning hair. However, suitable candidates must have the following:
- An adequate donor supply of healthy hair follicles from the back or sides of the scalp
- Realistic expectations
- Good overall health
- Commitment to following post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon
Reasons to Choose Nitai Clinic for NeoGraft Hair Transplant in Melbourne
Nitai Clinic consists of a team of surgeons and practitioners who perform hair transplant procedures, including the NeoGraft FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant, which is considered one of the modern hair transplantation techniques.
During consultations, Dr Shobhna Singh takes the time to conduct detailed patient health assessments to identify underlying medical conditions and factors that can affect the procedure’s outcome. Based on these comprehensive assessments, a personalised treatment plan tailored to the patient’s unique needs, aesthetic goals, and hair characteristics is created.
Dr Shobhna Singh also takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns and preferences. By doing so, patients are able to make informed decisions about their hair transplant procedure options. This also allows patients to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure and decide whether hair transplantation aligns with their aesthetic goals, preferences, and expectations. Furthermore, this provides patients with the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of the procedure.
We also provide guidance to our patients regarding the pre-and post-operative instructions. These include guidelines and recommendations on scalp care, medication management, and activity restrictions. Furthermore, we maintain open communication with our patients to provide timely reminders for follow-up appointments and ensure continuity of care.
