Hair Transplantation | New Zealand Reconstructive Surgical Specialists

What is hair transplant surgery?

Hair transplant surgery is a procedure aimed at restoring hair to areas of the scalp affected by baldness or thinning. Contrary to popular beliefs attributing baldness to various factors like poor circulation, vitamin deficiencies, or hat-wearing, the primary causes are aging, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition.

There are several techniques used in restoring scalp hair:

Hair Transplantation involves removing small sections of hair-bearing scalp from donor sites, and transplanting them to bald or thinning areas. Two main methods are:
- Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT): Involves removing a strip of skin with hair follicles from the back of the scalp, then transplanting the follicles to the recipient site.
- Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): Involves individually extracting hair follicles from the back of the scalp and transplanting them to the recipient site.

Tissue expansion, which enlarges hair-bearing scalp areas to cover non-hair-bearing ones
Scalp reduction surgery, which removes bald areas between hair-bearing regions

Who is a suitable candidate for hair transplant surgery?

Suitable candidates for hair transplant surgery:

Have healthy hair growth at the back and sides of the head for donor areas.
Factors like hair color, texture, and waviness may influence the cosmetic outcome.
Different techniques may be combined to achieve optimal results.

What should I expect during my consultation?

Hair transplant surgery is tailored to individual needs. Look for a surgeon experienced in various replacement techniques. During the initial consultation, your surgeon will assess your hair growth, family history of hair loss, and any prior transplant surgeries. They’ll also discuss lifestyle, expectations, and goals. Medical conditions like high blood pressure or clotting problems should be disclosed. Inform your surgeon about smoking or medication use. Your surgeon will explain anaesthesia, the surgical facility, risks, and costs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and ensure clarity on the surgical plan and post-operative expectations.

What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about hair transplant surgery?

Are you vocationally registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand as a specialist plastic surgeon?
Are you a member of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons?
Will the procedure be conducted in a hospital or office-based setting, and is the facility accredited for this type of surgery?
What type of anaesthesia is needed for this procedure?
Based on my medical history and condition, is surgery the best option for me? If so, am I a suitable candidate for this surgery?
Which surgical technique do you recommend for my case, and why?
What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of this procedure in my case?
What steps or lifestyle changes are necessary for me to get the best result from my surgery?
What is the anticipated duration of recovery, and what assistance will I need during this period?
What potential risks and complications are associated with this procedure? How would you manage these should they arise?
How will my results change over time?
If I’m unhappy with the outcome, what recourse options are available?

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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide you with general information only. This information is not a substitute for advice from your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and does not contain all the known facts about this procedure or every possible side effect of surgery. It is important that you speak to your surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery. If you are not sure about the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment, or anything else relating to your procedure, ask your surgeon to explain. Patient information provided as part of this website is evidence-based, and sourced from a range of reputable information providers including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Better Health Channel and Mi-tec medical publishing.

Sarah Gardiner