Hair transplant success rates

According to the latest report from The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), advances in techniques and technology mean that the hair transplant is becoming an increasingly effective surgical solution to hair loss.

In the ISHRS 2022 Practice Census, 68% or hair restoration surgeons reported performing an average of one procedure per patient in 2021 to achieve the desired result. This represents a significant improvement, as in 2019 ISHRS members estimated an average of 3.4 procedures were required and five operations needed in 2016.

Dr Mooz is often asked during hair transplant consultations, ‘how successful will my procedure be?’ While it is not ever possible to give a definitive answer, there are certain steps you can take to ensure a positive outcome.

Which hair transplant method is used?

The current prevailing technique is Follicular Unit Extraction or FUE. During this procedure, follicular units or grafts of one to four hairs are extracted individually from the donor area and then small incision are made in the recipient area into which the units are inserted.

The other commonly used hair transplant technique is FUT or Follicular Unit Transplantation, which entails taking a strip of tissue from the donor area and then the follicular units are removed from the strip. The major drawback of this technique is that it can leave a large scar on the back or sides of the head, which is why FUE has become more popular in recent years.

Initially, FUE survival rates were not as good as FUT, as the grafts underwent more ‘trauma’ during the extraction process. During FUT, the hair follicles are carefully dissected from the donor strip, potentially leaving more of the connective tissue intact.

However, as a recent study revealed, advances in FUE technique means that the survival rate has improved and is now comparable to FUT.

Dr Mooz further ensures a successful outcome by using a hair transplant implanter pen. The pen creates the incision in the scalp at the same time as the graft is inserted. There are several benefits to this technique. As well as ensuring a higher density of implantation, the device gives Dr Mooz full control over the angle of implantation. By placing grafts at specific angles to recreate the direction of hair growth, results appear more natural. The implanter pen also allows the hair transplant surgeon to safely implant grafts between existing hair follicles, so it is possible to perform an unshaven hair transplant.

For more advice on Dr Mooz’s hair transplant success rates, call 0207 411 9858 to arrange a consultation.