New Robotic Hair Transplant Procedures Promise Precision
Balding and thinning hair is an issue that plagues both men and women of all ages and races. Not only does the loss of hair from ones scalp cause an altered outward appearance, but the long term effects on the ego and self esteem of the person who has lost the hair can be detrimental.
For years, procedures, surgeries even poor looking hair replacement pieces have been used to try and solve the issue. But thanks to technological innovations, hope for hair transplant surgeries that are fast and far less invasive are becoming a reality.
One recent news report by Fox 4 detailed the use of a special tiny robot to allow John Quinn to have a more natural looking result from his hair transplant.
The system, referred to as the, “ARTAS robotic system” makes it more efficient and precise to remove grafts of hair one follicular unit at time and then makes use of a digital imaging software according to the report, that lays out the area where the hair grows and implants it into those areas that are plagued with thinning or hair loss.
In addition to more natural looking hair transplant and better precision, the use of robots to perform the procedure also means reduced scarring and recovery.
NBC 10 also recently ran a report on the use of the Artas System on Chris Coppa who had suffered from balding issues going all the way back to highschool. While the procedure is still fresh, the success of the new robotic method is touted as a perfect solution especially for those who wear their hair short and expose the scalp because there is no scarring and because the hair transplants are inserted with such precision.
Explaining the procedure to NBC10, Dr. Robert Leonard of Leonard Hair Transplant Associates said he controls the robot with a remote and a large screen TV.
“Everything's magnified so I can see exactly where the next harvest will be, and if I don't like where that harvest is -- for example, if there's a prior scar or something -- I can skip over that one and go to the next one.”
The ARTAS System is developed by Restoration Robotics, a privately held medical device company.
Hairfear - 9-25-2013
Frequently asked questions about hair transplant procedures
How much does a hair transplant cost?
Hair transplants can vary in price based off of the area in the world that you are interested in getting a hair transplant as well as the size of the area where you may need a hair transplant. Experienced doctors in the United States will often charge some of the highest prices for a hair transplant worldwide and this is why so many travelers make the move to other parts the world like Turkey, India, Thailand, Mexico...etc for their hair transplants.
Will a hair transplant hurt?
Although hair transplants may look like a particularly
unpleasant or painful experience is actually very little discomfort involved
with the surgery itself. Hair transplants are always done under an anesthetic so there's absolutely zero pain during the treatment itself. Many people actually relate the process as being very similar to going to the dentist for filling or root canal. Mild pain can persist over the course of postop treatment but he generally just resumes for a few days.
Who can deliver the best surgery?
It's usually best to consider working with surgeons who have and IAHRS certification or international alliance of hair restoration surgeons recognition. IAHRS can often deliver recommendations for the best surgeons in each particular area.
Is this scarring noticeable?
Any type of hair transplant will require the use of incisions throughout the scalp. There can also sometimes be a small scar from the donor area towards the back of the scalp. Asking to look at photos of the surgeon's previous work will help you to see roughly how bad the scarring could be. In most cases an experienced professional can limit the look of scarring and noticeable marks from the surgery.
How long does it take for the hair to grow?
In most cases hair growth will start within eight months and you can start to see a full effect from the hair transplant after a full year. The initial signs of growth can usually start between 3 to 4 months after the surgery.
Are the results permanent?
The hair follicles that are transplanted are generally the ones which are genetically resistant against the symptoms of baldness. As long as you receive hair loss treatment later in your life after the symptoms of balding have started to subside, you can have a better chance at permanent results.
While everyone know you've had surgery?
If you want to limit the chance that people may find out about your surgery it's important to give at least three weeks of healing as the surgical area will be affected and red just after surgery. After around a month of healing it can look far less noticeable. You could consider wearing a hat while time passes or opting for some extra time off if possible.
How long should I rest after surgery?
It's recommended to rest for at least a few days after surgery so that your body can recover. Trenton to over exert yourself and limit sexual activity, running in the gym for around 10 days after surgery.
Is it possible to lose more hair as a result of surgery?
There is always a chance of shock loss which happens when the hair is weak and miniaturizing after the surgery. As long as the surgeon is choosing the correct hair follicles and performing the surgery well it's possible to minimize the chance of this happening however.
Will I need another hair transplant?
The need for another transplant really depends on the individual. With a solid foundation surgery and working to potentially bolster results with drug therapy, you can improve the stability of the hair that was transplanted as well as prevent further loss. Getting a hair transplant early
on in your 20s or early on in life could lead to needing long-term transplants as hair loss can be progressive.
