A hair transplant is a surgical procedure in which healthy hair roots are taken from an area of the head that still has dense hair and transplanted into areas that are already bald or thinning. The back of the head is frequently used for this, as the hair roots there are often more stable and more resistant to hair loss.

The purpose of this method is to create fuller hair again in a natural way. The harvested hair follicles are inserted into the bald areas, where they take hold and continue to produce hair. The result is permanent hair growth that matches the existing hair in colour and texture and thus makes a natural head of hair possible.

Why is a hair transplant performed on men?

The most common reason is genetically determined androgenetic hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. This type of hair loss is primarily attributable to genetic factors and often begins at a relatively young age. Here, the hair roots react sensitively to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone causes the hair follicles to shrink over time and the hairs to become thinner until they eventually fall out.

In addition to genetic causes, other factors can also play a role in hair loss. For example, certain medications, particularly those that affect hormone production or have strong side effects, can lead to hair loss. Infectious diseases, such as fungal infections of the scalp, or metabolic disorders, such as thyroid problems, can likewise impair hair growth. A deficiency of important nutrients, such as iron or vitamins, can also lead to hair loss.

One particular type of hair loss is so-called patchy hair loss, also known as alopecia areata. Here the exact cause has not yet been fully clarified, but many experts suspect that an autoimmune reaction is involved. In this case, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair roots, which leads to hair loss.

In addition, persistent traction on the hair roots, as can occur with extreme and frequent wearing of plaits or use of hair ties, can lead to a condition called traction alopecia. In this condition the hair root is subjected to excessive strain, which leads to hair loss.

A hair transplant is frequently considered when the hair loss is very pronounced and other treatments, such as medication or topical solutions, do not help sufficiently. In the transplant, healthy hair follicles are moved from an area with strong hair growth (generally the back of the head) to the bald or thinning areas. This method helps to reconstruct the head of hair and achieve a more natural appearance.

Advantages of a hair transplant

A hair transplant has many advantages, particularly for men with severe hair loss. One of the greatest advantages is that the results are long-term. In contrast to temporary solutions such as hair thickening, which offer only temporary improvements, the transplanted hairs grow back permanently. This means that you can enjoy a natural-looking head of hair for many years.

A further plus point is that your own hair is used in a hair transplant. As the patient's own hair is used, it blends perfectly into the existing hair structure and looks entirely natural. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek ensures that the hair follicles are placed precisely, which leads to a harmonious and natural result.

Through the exact placement of the hair follicles, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek can ensure that bald or thinning areas are covered evenly. This provides a fuller and denser head of hair and helps to conceal bald patches effectively.

In addition, the results of a hair transplant are generally very stable. Once transplanted, hair follicles that have taken well are generally retained and do not fall out again, as long as you remain healthy.

The treatment begins with a personal consultation with Lecturer Dr. Matiasek, in which the causes of the hair loss are clarified and the appropriate method is selected. The procedure itself is performed under local anaesthesia, so that patients remain pain-free during the treatment.

There are two main methods of hair transplantation: the FUT method (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and the FUE method (Follicular Unit Extraction).

FUT method (Follicular Unit Transplantation)

In the FUT method, which is performed by Lecturer Dr. Matiasek, a narrow strip of skin is taken from the fringe of hair at the back of the head. This strip contains many hair follicles and is then divided into small units, the so-called “follicular units”. The scalp is then prepared, and the hair follicles are transplanted into the bald areas of the head. The skin at the donor site is sutured closed again, which can result in a fine scar at the back of the head. This method is particularly suitable for larger areas and can obtain many follicles at once.

FUE method (Follicular Unit Extraction)

In contrast, in the FUE method Lecturer Dr. Matiasek removes the hair follicles individually from the donor area using a small, round hollow needle. This method does not require the removal of a strip of skin, which means that no linear scar is left behind. The hair follicles are then implanted into the areas to be treated. The FUE method is less invasive and generally leaves fewer visible traces, but it can take more time and is often more costly.

DHI method (Direct Hair Implantation)

A more advanced technique is the DHI method, in which the hair follicles are implanted directly into the scalp with the aid of a special instrument. This method enables particularly precise placement of the follicles, as the implantation and the extraction of the follicles take place almost simultaneously. The DHI method can offer an even more accurate and natural distribution of the hair and reduces the healing time compared with the FUT method.

Depending on its extent, the entire procedure can take between four and eight hours. Extensive treatments may require several sessions. After the transplant, the hair follicles enter a resting phase, which means that visible growth only begins after about three to four months. The final result is usually visible after eight to twelve months. Throughout the entire process, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek ensures precise execution and comprehensive aftercare in order to achieve optimal results.

The FUE and FUT methods differ primarily in the way in which the hairs are harvested and transplanted. In the FUE method, the hair follicles are removed individually from the donor area, usually the back of the head. This is done with a fine needle, which leaves only tiny, dot-like scars that are almost invisible. This is particularly advantageous if you wear your hair short or do not want any visible scars. Healing is generally quick, and the method is less invasive, which leads to less discomfort. However, the FUE method is more laborious and therefore more expensive, especially when larger areas have to be treated.

In contrast, in the FUT method a strip of skin is removed from the back of the head, from which the hair follicles are dissected out. This method leaves a longer scar at the back of the head, which can be more visible with short hair. For those who wear their hair long, this scar is often less noticeable. The FUT method is less expensive, as it is less time-consuming, and it is particularly well suited to larger hair transplants. However, healing of the donor area takes somewhat longer and can be more uncomfortable, as a larger layer of skin is removed.

If an invisible scar is important to you and you are prepared to invest more for it, the FUE method is probably the best choice. If, however, you would like to have a larger area treated and the visible scar is not a major problem for you, the FUT method can be a less expensive and efficient option.

A hair transplant can be particularly beneficial for people who have a sufficient number of healthy and strong donor hairs. These donor hairs, which are usually taken from the back or the sides of the head, are ideally thick and robust, as they offer better conditions for a natural and aesthetic final result. It is also an advantage if the hair loss has already stabilised. This means that the loss is not progressing any further, which considerably improves the prospects of success of the transplant, as the transplanted hairs are not affected again.

When is a hair transplant not advisable?

A hair transplant is less advisable if the hair loss is still progressing. If the loss of hair cannot be stopped and only very little residual hair remains, it can be difficult to achieve good results. The progressive hair loss could also affect the new, transplanted hairs and diminish the success of the treatment.

For people under 25 years of age, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek normally advises against a hair transplant. At this age the hair loss has often not yet stabilised, and it may make more sense to first try other methods of prevention and of strengthening your own hair. The quality of the donor hair is also important: if the hairs in the donor area are too thin or weak, or if only a small quantity of donor hair is available, this could adversely affect the results of the transplant.

Health problems such as inflammation of the hair roots, chronic illnesses or a weakened immune system can likewise increase the risk of complications. In the case of existing conditions such as hepatitis or HIV, a hair transplant is advised against. In addition, certain medications that affect blood pressure or inhibit blood clotting should be discussed with Lecturer Dr. Matiasek before the transplant in order to clarify possible risks.

Even though hair transplants are generally possible for people between 25 and 75 years of age, particular attention must be paid to the state of health of older patients. If you suffer from cardiovascular disease or other chronic conditions, you should inform Lecturer Dr. Matiasek so that the treatment can be carried out safely and effectively.

What can be done if a hair transplant is not possible?

If a hair transplant is out of the question for the reasons mentioned above, there are nevertheless various alternatives. One option is hair thickening with extensions, which can temporarily provide more fullness without the need for an operation. In addition, special medications such as finasteride or minoxidil can help to slow down hair loss or, in some cases, improve hair density again. However, these medications have to be used continuously and often only show their effect after several months. As a non-invasive option, cosmetic solutions such as hair growth products are also available, which are applied to the scalp and can stimulate the hair roots. Here, too, patience is required, as the results can vary depending on the product.

Lecturer Dr. Matiasek will be happy to inform you about the costs of a hair transplant. The prices depend mainly on the number of hair follicles transplanted. You can expect to pay around four euros per follicular unit.

As hair loss is generally not regarded as a medical necessity, health insurance funds do not normally cover any costs. There are exceptions, however, for example in the case of the after-effects of an accident or severe psychological distress.

If you require financing, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek offers flexible instalment payments so that you can realise the hair transformation you desire.

A hair transplant often delivers long-lasting results, but the final outcome can only be assessed after around eight to twelve months. Initial progress is often visible after just a few weeks, as the transplanted hairs first enter a resting phase and only start growing again later.

As a rule, the transplanted hairs hold well, with a high graft survival rate of 80 to 95 per cent. This means that most of the transplanted hair follicles take successfully and grow permanently.

How long the result lasts depends on several factors. Good aftercare and care are important, but genetic factors also play a role, as they can influence how quickly your hair grows and how stable it remains.

Occasionally it may be necessary to carry out touch-ups or additional treatments, particularly if the hair loss continues or you would like even more volume. The non-transplanted hairs can continue to fall out, so it is important to keep an eye on progress.

Overall, a hair transplant is a safe procedure, but there are some possible disadvantages and risks that should be borne in mind.

After the procedure, temporary complaints such as swelling, redness or bruising may occur. These symptoms are usually harmless and disappear by themselves after a few days. Particularly in the night after the procedure, swelling and pain may occur at the donor sites, especially in the forehead and eye area. Even though these complaints can be unpleasant, they generally subside quickly.

A further disadvantage is scarring. With the FUT method, in which a strip of skin is removed from the back of the head, a visible scar may remain. The FUE method, in which the hairs are harvested individually, minimises this risk and generally leaves no visible scars.

In rare cases, the graft may not take as desired. This can be caused by infections or other complications. Even though the success rate is high, it is important to have realistic expectations of the result. The procedure can significantly improve the hair situation, but possibly not to the extent that one had hoped for.

Directly after the transplant, the scalp may be irritated, and swelling and crusting may occur. So-called shock loss is also possible, in which the transplanted hairs temporarily fall out before growing back again. This is normal and temporary.

In the first few days after the procedure, it is important to treat the scalp particularly gently. The first cleansing of the scalp should take place no earlier than four days after the operation, so as not to jeopardise the transplanted hairs taking root. Use a special lotion and a spray bottle for this. Around two weeks after the procedure, you can then wash your hair with lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo. Proceed carefully so that you do not irritate the sensitive scalp or displace the freshly transplanted hairs.

The first visible results of the hair transplant may become apparent after around three to four months. Fully visible results can generally be expected after eight to twelve months, as the transplanted hair roots need some time to settle and grow.

There are several alternatives to a hair transplant, which are suitable depending on the cause and severity of the hair loss.

Medication

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a tincture that is applied directly to the scalp. It can help to promote hair growth and is suitable for men and women. The exact mode of action is not fully understood, but it is assumed that minoxidil improves blood circulation in the scalp, which can stimulate hair growth. One disadvantage is that the effect is only maintained with continued use. If it is discontinued, hair loss may begin again.

Finasteride

This medication is taken in tablet form and blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause hair loss. Finasteride can slow down hair loss and in some cases even promote hair growth. However, the effect only becomes apparent after three to six months, and the medication must be taken for life in order to maintain the results. Women of childbearing age should avoid it, as it can increase the risk of birth defects.

PRP therapy

Here, blood is taken and centrifuged, and the platelet-rich plasma, which contains growth factors, is injected into the scalp. PRP can increase hair density by ten to 15 per cent and stimulate the growth phase of the hair. It is a less invasive method, but one that has to be repeated regularly.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy uses low-frequency laser beams to improve blood circulation in the scalp and stimulate the hair roots. It is painless and non-invasive, but can be time-consuming and require regular sessions. The results are often subtle improvements in hair density and thickness.

Scalp micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic technique in which colour pigments are worked into the scalp to create the impression of denser hair. It is particularly useful for people with complete baldness or for areas that cannot be transplanted. It offers an immediate visual improvement, but has to be refreshed regularly.

Advantages and disadvantages compared with a hair transplant

Medications such as minoxidil and finasteride are a less invasive option for combating hair loss. They can stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss, but the results are often not as impressive as with a hair transplant. In addition, these medications must be taken permanently in order to maintain the effect. PRP and laser treatments can also help to promote hair growth and slow down hair loss. Both methods, however, require regular treatments. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that they will deliver dramatic results. Scalp micropigmentation offers an immediately visible improvement by creating the impression of denser hair. However, it does not change anything about the actual hair density or the hair growth process.

Compared with a hair transplant, these options are less invasive and do not require a long recovery period. They are useful if the hair loss is not yet far advanced or if a less permanent solution is preferred.

Before the hair transplant, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek will inform you in detail about the procedure and explain the opportunities and risks to you precisely. He will also make sure that your expectations are realistic and review your medical history. If, for example, you suffer from blood clotting disorders or a tendency towards excessive scarring, this could affect the procedure. In addition, certain medications such as blood thinners should be temporarily discontinued, which Lecturer Dr. Matiasek will likewise explain to you in detail. Avoid smoking and alcohol before the operation, as these can impair healing. Let your hair grow as long as possible until the day of the operation so that the treated areas can be better concealed after the procedure. On the day of the operation, you should wear comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off, and eat sufficiently to keep your circulation stable.

After the procedure, you are generally socially presentable straight away, but should plan for a recovery period of around two to three days. In the first few days, you should wash your hair gently with a mild shampoo only after four days. Avoid putting strain on the scalp in the first week, and suspend physical activities and sport for the time being. After around two weeks, you can exercise normally again. Protect your scalp from direct sunlight by wearing a head covering or staying in the shade. Refrain from using the sauna, sunbed and swimming pool for at least two weeks, and note that you can go into seawater again after around four weeks, whereas you should avoid chlorinated water for somewhat longer.