Hairline Surgery vs Hair Transplant: Which is Right for You?

Hair line surgery

For millions of men and women around the world, hair loss is a daily problem. While hair loss can be due to external factors such as stress or diet, the most common cause of hair loss is genetics. Androgenetic alopecia—more commonly known as “pattern baldness”–affects over half of men aged 50 and up. The first sign of pattern baldness in most people is a receding hairline. For many, this will be the end of their hair loss. There are a wide variety of hair transplant options available for people experiencing genetic hair loss.

 

What is Hairline Surgery?

Hairline surgery—also known as forehead reduction or scalp advancement surgery—is a cosmetic procedure that aims to shorten the distance between a patient’s hairline and eyebrows. This operation is typically chosen by patients who have a “high forehead” after hair loss, but still have noticeable hair on the crown.

How is hairline surgery performed?

Hairline surgery is performed by first placing the patient under general anesthesia. Next, the surgeon creates an incision just in front of the hairline. Thie scalp is then pulled forward one to three centimeters and any excess skin is removed before the scalp and forehead are stitched together.

How long does hairline surgery take?

Adjusting the height of the forehead typically takes anywhere from 1.5 – 2 hours. Overnight stays in the hospital following the procedure are commonplace.

How long does it take to recover from hairline surgery?

Moderate pain/discomfort is normal for three to five days following the procedure. Patients can resume normal daily activities after one to two weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise/activities for 6 weeks.

Patients also need to return for multiple follow-up appointments to ensure the healing process is going well and that no complications arise. During one of these appointments, the stitches used to close the incisions will be removed.

What are the risks of hairline surgery?

There are always risks associated with any surgery. However, complications from hairline surgery are uncommon. Bruising of the forehead or face may occur and can persist for up to two weeks, while major bleeding is rare. Post-operative infection is rare and requires a course of appropriate antibiotics. Facial muscle weakness is uncommon and typically only affects the forehead and lasts for six to eight weeks, in rare cases, this can be permanent. Hypertrophic and keloid scars are uncommon but possible. Reduced sensation in the scalp is expected and will slowly improve within the first one to two years following the operation.

 

What is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant in Istanbul is an ideal choice for patients who have hair loss beyond just the hairline. Patients suffering from extensive, chronic hair loss will find that a hair transplant represents the only truly permanent solution to pattern baldness.

How is a hair transplant performed?

The two most common forms of hair transplant surgery are Follicular Unit Extraction and Direct Hair Implantation.

  • FUE: This hair transplant procedure involves using a patient’s own, healthy hair to fill in the areas where hair loss is most prevalent, Extracted hair follicles are removed from the donor area before being implanted exactly where they are needed to provide full, natural coverage. Dr Serkan Aygin is an established pioneer in using sapphire blades during the procedure. This allows for more precise placement of hair grafts as well as reduced healing time.
  • DHI: This is a modified version of the FUE technique. DHI hair transplants use a special tool that injects the hair follicle directly into the scalp. This process allows the hair follicles to be implanted at specific angles to match the rest of the hair, allowing for a more natural-looking final result.

How long does a hair transplant take?

Hair transplants are outpatient procedures that can last anywhere from two to six hours. In the most extreme cases, two sessions may be necessary.

How long does it take to recover from a hair transplant?

Recovery from a hair transplant begins after just 25 hours. The next day, patients return for a follow-up to remove the head dressing and evaluate the results. For the next three days, it’s important not to touch the site and after one week, the hairs have become embedded. By the end of the second week, the area will be fully healed.

What are the risks of a hair transplant?

The risks of hair transplants are minimal. The most common side effects are bleeding, scabbing, and itching of the transplant site. These will subside in the coming days. Minimal scarring is a risk, however, these typically fade quickly and are covered by the newly transplanted hair.

 

The Dr Serkan Aygin Clinic

Located in the heart of Istanbul, our clinic offers world-leading solutions to hair loss. As specialists in both DHI and Sapphire FUE hair transplants, our surgical team is here for you. Dr Serkan Aygin has treated more than 15,000 patients in his 25-year career with a hair regrowth rate of 98%. Contact us today to schedule your full, free consultation.

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