Hair Transplant FAQs
Chicago Illinois

Hair Transplant Frequently Asked Questions

Just for Patients
Forms & Information

Chicago Plastic Surgeon


Dr. George Moynihan
named as one of
America’s Top Physicians

Dr. Moynihan's
Credentials

Q - What is a hair transplant?
The hair transplant is a plastic surgery procedure which uses a patient’s own hair to permanently increase hair density in areas that are hair deficient such as the scalp, sideburns, or eyebrows.

Q - Who is a good candidate for a hair transplant?
Men and women seeking a solution to their hair loss may be good candidates for a hair transplant. Patients must have sufficient healthy hair growth, usually on the back of the scalp, to serve as donor hair

Q - What happens during the hair transplant consultation?
During the consultation, your hair growth will be evaluated and your medical history taken which will include your family history of hair loss. Your goals will be discussed and all details of the procedure, such as the technique, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the costs, will be explained.

Q - Where is the hair transplant procedure performed?
Dr. Moynihan performs hair transplants in his office-based facility.

Q - What is the anesthesia used for a hair transplant?
Local anesthesia is used for the hair transplant.

Q - How is the hair transplant performed?
For the hair transplant, a strip of hair is harvested from a donor area, usually on the back of the scalp. The strip of hair is then divided into small grafts which each contain one to three hairs. The grafts are then inserted through small slits on the skin of the hair-deficient areas. A large hair transplant session may involve as many 1,200 to 1,500 grafts. To achieve the best hair density, several sessions may be required.

Q - How long is the surgical time for a hair transplant?
The hair transplant may take anywhere from three to six hours to perform.

Q - Will I have scars after undergoing a hair transplant?
Any scars resulting from the hair transplant are typically camouflaged by the hair.

Q - How much pain occurs with the hair transplant?
Patients may experience an achy or tight sensation in the scalp, which can be managed with medication.

Q - What is the recovery like after undergoing a hair transplant?
The recovery after a hair transplant takes about one week. If patients experience any discomfort, this can be managed with medication. The newly transplanted hair usually falls out within six weeks after the procedure. This is normal and new hair growth will resume in about six to twelve weeks.

Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my hair transplant?
You should plan on being out of work for about one week after your hair transplant.

Q - Can I exercise after my hair transplant?
Light exercise can usually be resume in about one week after the hair transplant, though strenuous activities and exercise will need to be postponed for about two weeks.

Q - When are the stitches removed after the hair transplant?
The stitches are removed in about one week after the hair transplant.

Q - Are there any risks associated with the hair transplant?
All surgery carries some risk. For hair transplants, this may include the risk of insufficient hair density.

Q - Will my insurance company cover the cost of my hair transplant?
Patients will need to check with their own insurer, but in general hair transplants are not covered by insurance when performed for purely cosmetic purposes.

 

Chicago Plastic Surgery | Chicago Rhinoplasty | Chicago Facelift | Plastic Surgeon in Chicago
60 East Delaware Place, Suite 1400, 14th Floor | Chicago, Illinois 60611 | Tel:312.988.9300 Fax:312.988.9310
Copyright 2007 Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, Inc. All Rights reserved. Sitemap

Chicago Plastic Surgery Schedule a Consultation Before and After photos Patient Testimonials Ask the Surgeon About Us Media and News Contact Us