When you look at yourself in the mirror, one of the first things you notice is your hair. This is also one of the first things other people notice about you. Hair plays a crucial role in the way we look and feel. When it looks good, we feel like we can conquer the world. When it doesn’t look good, our mood dampens. Now, imagine if you woke up one day and all your hair was gone or you’re combing your hair and notice huge chunks falling off. You’d never want to leave the house.
People who experience baldness and thinning can develop deep insecurities about their hair. This has led to an increase in people getting hair transplants. This is a procedure used to treat hair loss by moving healthy hair from one part of the head to the part that is thinning or bald. Though it’s a common procedure, it’s important to know what to expect before getting a hair transplant. Here are some things you should keep in mind.
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You have to be the right candidate
Before you decide to get a hair transplant, you need to make sure that you’re the right candidate for the procedure. There’s no age limit to get the surgery but doctors recommend patients to be above 25 years old since the hair loss is stable by that age. Additionally, if you’re completely bald, you can’t get a hair transplant since they work with the hair you have. 6 Myths About Balding And Hairloss
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You need to find a good clinic
The most crucial thing you need to do before getting a hair transplant is to find the right clinic. Nowadays, there are so many clinics that offer hair transplant services but you may end up disappointed by the result. Don’t settle for a clinic simply because it’s cheap. Make sure that the clinic has good reviews, a relaxing ambience and professional staff. If you’re still unsure, you can contact people you know who have gotten a hair transplant surgery for recommendations.
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Results may vary
Don’t expect miracles. Like any cosmetic procedure, the results will vary depending on various factors. For a hair transplant, the quality of your hair determines how the result will turn out. If your hair is sparse and weak, chances are it will be the same in the transplanted area. Additionally, if your hair has started to turn grey, the transplanted hair may be grey or may assume the hair colour in its new location.
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It’s expensive
Getting a hair transplant can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 (Ksh150,000 to Ksh 1,500,000) depending on the clinic, procedure and other expenses. For instance, if you were to get the procedure done in Turkey, it would cost you between $1,800 and $2,100 for up to 3,000 grafts and $2,500 to $4,500 for up to 5,000 grafts. This isn’t inclusive of transportation and accommodation. However, some clinics offer packages that include transport and accommodation.
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It’s permanent
The transplanted hair is not vulnerable to hair loss processes like the rest of the hair on your head. Therefore, the transplanted area will remain the same for the rest of your life. However, the area around the transplanted area and the rest of your head is still subject to hair loss. In some cases, repeat surgery may be required after 5 to 8 years to resolve any hair loss issues you may experience.
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woman getting a hair transplant. Image from https://worbimed.com/hair-transplant-for-black-women/ You need to follow instructions carefully
Once you get the procedure, your doctor will give you a set of instructions which you need to follow strictly. This ensures that you get the best outcome possible. Generally, the doctor will show you the right procedure for moisturizing and washing your hair which should be followed for at least 2 weeks. Apart from the instructions given, you should ask any questions you may have regarding the aftercare process. You may also ask for a demonstration if the clinic doesn’t give you one.
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The healing process is long and awkward
Be prepared for a long and awkward healing process. You need to exercise some patience when you get a hair transplant because it will take around 12 months for you to see the full results. During this period, your hair will go through a variety of stages. First, the doctor will trim a part of your head so they can extract the donor’s hair. In some cases, they will shave your entire head. Once the procedure is complete, you will experience swelling which should heal after a week. You can wear a hat or glueless wig after 10 days when the transplanted hairs are permanently anchored. However, should consult with your doctor first. The transplanted hair will fall off after a month then it should start growing normally.
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