Neograft Hair Tranplantation FAQ’s | Buffalo Hair Transplant Center
What is NeoGraft™?
NeoGraft™ is a new automated device which facilitates the harvesting of follicles during a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and implantation hair transplant procedure, dramatically improving the accuracy and speed over previously-used manual extraction instruments.
What is an “FUE” hair transplant?
“F.U.E.” or “Follicular-Unit Extraction” is an advanced, “minimally-invasive” hair transplant method which allows for the harvesting of individual follicles from the back of the head (donor area) without a scalpel or stitches, and therefore leaves no linear scar.
What are the main benefits of FUE over the traditional “Strip Method” or linear harvesting?
It is well-accepted that FUE transplants can heal faster and more comfortably than linear-harvest techniques which the physician uses a scalpel and removes a strip of scalp requiring stitches. With the minimally invasive technique FUE, the patient can return to work in a couple of days and once healing is complete, the patient has the option of wearing a very short haircut without the worry of a tell-tale linear scar. Without the need for stitches, downtime is shorter with fewer activity restrictions post-operatively.
What are some benefits of NeoGraft™ over manual FUE techniques?
The highly ergonomic mechanical NeoGraft™ device works as a natural extension of the surgeons’ hand, allowing for faster and more accurate harvesting of hair follicles. NeoGraft™ patients now reach their goal with less time in the procedure room or fewer FUE procedures altogether.
Who is a good candidate for FUE using NeoGraft™?
Patients who would like the option of wearing a very short haircut in the back or sides of their scalp, or those who want the least amount of activity restriction (e.g. athletes) after their hair transplant procedure, may be good candidates for FUE with NeoGraft™. FUE can also be used for ‘scar camouflage’ procedures for patients who have had prior “Strip” procedures, as well as for body hair transplants.
What are the major cost differences between FUE and linear-harvest hair transplant procedures?
The fee structure for FUE hair transplant procedures reflect the more detailed and intricate nature of those procedures compared to those performed with a linear harvest strip method but in most cases is very similar in pricing.
Are the final transplanted ‘results’ any different with FUE/NeoGraft™ than those achieved with linear harvesting?
Results are similar. FUE procedures, by default, yield grafts that contain mainly one, two, three, or four follicles called “follicular units.” Strips or linear harvests, are removed from the back of the scalp and are then microscopically dissected by a team into grafts of one, two or three follicles, would also yield similar ‘follicular-unit’ grafts. Provided that in each case the grafts are implanted with care, artistry and precision into the recipient area, the final transplanted results with FUE would be similar, if not identical, to those accomplished with a linear harvest. The difference is not in the area of hair growth, but how the donor area is harvested either by a strip of scalp or by small individual graft extractions. Using the FUE Technique, leaves no linear scar.
Is FUE/NeoGraft™ suitable for both men and women?
Yes. Because FUE/NeoGraft™ is a minimally-invasive procedure, it is a viable option for both men and women looking to restore their own living and growing hair with transplantation.
Do I have to get a total ‘buzz cut’ to have an FUE/NeoGraft procedure?
No, if your hair is long enough, harvesting using the FUE/NeoGraft can be done by shaving small areas which can be covered by your other, existing hair.
Am I a good candidate for a procedure using FUE/NeoGraft?
The best way to determine whether you are a candidate for hair transplant using FUE/NeoGraft is a one-on-one consultation with your doctor.
When should I expect the most swelling?
Your body’s immune system kicks in approximately 3 days post hair transplant where you will notice the greatest amount of swelling lasting up to 7 days.
When will I see results?
You will experience normal early hair loss “shedding” before you see hair growth starting at 4 months. Ideal permanent results are not seen until 9 -12 months. Hair growth takes time, regardless if it’s your own natural hair growing or transplanted hair.
What are Donor Sites?
Donor sites are areas of permanent hair located on the back and sides of the scalp. These follicles are resistant to hormonal hair loss (DHT).
Will my Donor sites look noticeably thin or bald?
No. Although the donor sites will thin the density of the area, 50% hair density in that area is more the sufficient to provide ideal coverage. Importantly the automated suction performed by the Neograft hair transplant device, strategically pulls follicles in a random pattern to prevent follicles from being removed all from one area, eliminated the illusion of patchy hair loss.
How long before I can wash off the scabs?
For 7 to 10 days, avoid direct pressure from the shower head, use spray on shampoo. After 10 days, you can wash your hair using bio cleansing shampoo and thickening conditioner and wash of the scabs. Avoid aggressive rubbing.
Why am I losing transplanted hair?
It is both normal and common. The first Stage post-transplant is called the Catagen phase where ‘shedding’ will occur. The second stage is called Telogen phase or resting phase that last 3 months. 4 months post-transplant is when you will notice growth of new follicles, known as the anogen phase.
Is the procedure painful?
No, Neograft method uses local anesthesia during the procedure so that the area is numb. Post procedure, pain medication is prescribed as needed.
What are the risk of neograft transplant?
This is a minimal invasive procedure. Pain is well controlled with local anesthesia and post op pain medication. Risk of Infection is controlled with preventative antibiotic prescriptions.
How long do I leave the bandage on?
The bandage can be removed the following day, unless informed otherwise.
How do I dry my hair?
During the 2 weeks following your transplant it is advised to pat dry, avoid rubbing or hair dryers to prevent damage to the new follicles for 4 weeks after transplant. When using the dryer, use a low heat setting.
How do I cut my hair prior to the procedure?
Men – are advised to shave the hair down to the skin along the back and sides of your scalp. This will allow the technician to determine direction of hair growth accurately. It is advised to cut your hair within 24 hours of procedure.
Women – are advised to cut hair in shaved strips based on how many grafts are required for the transplant. Shaving is recommended within 24 hours of procedure.
Both men and women are recommended to keep longer hair to cover up areas of shaving to maintain discretion of procedure.
When can I cut my hair next?
You may get another haircut 2 weeks post procedure.
Coloring your hair?
If you wish to color your hair perform coloring 3 days prior to procedure. After the procedure, it is recoomended to wait 2 months until you can color your hair again. Semi-permanent color is reccomendded until the 3 month period.
When can I use hair products like gel, mouse, hair spray?
It is advised to wait 3 weeks after the procedure before you use any products on the hair and scalp.
How long before i can work out?
Avoid unnecessary perspiration or strain to the newly transplanted follicles. It is advised to take 10 days off from vigorous exercise.
When should I have my follow-up?
1 week post transplant.
Can I smoke and drink?
Smoking and drinking can negatively affect your transplant. It is advised to stop smoking pre and post transplant to improve the healing process and recovery time. Drinking is advised to be discontinued 3 day prior procedure and for 1 week post, again to improve your healing process.
When can I wash my hair?
You can wash your hair the next day. The back of the scalp can be scrubs. The transplanted area should not have direct contact with water but be rinsed from back to front with a cup, do not rub grafts for 10 days. Apply polysporin for the next 2 days to hassen healing of scabs on the back.
Can I comb my hair?
You can use your fingers or a wide tooth comb, avoid contact with the grafts.