What should you know about donor hair transplant?

The donor area is commonly found at the back or sides of the scalp because follicles there may be more resistant to the pattern of thinning affecting the front or crown. A surgeon evaluates density, hair calibre, curl, scalp condition, and the direction of growth before planning removal and placement.

Follicular units can be taken individually or as a strip of scalp, depending on the technique and the person's anatomy. The transferred follicles still need time to settle and grow. Existing hair may continue to thin, so the design should account for future changes rather than only today's appearance.

Ask for a diagnosis of the hair-loss pattern before discussing graft placement. Bring a list of medicines, scalp products, allergies, and previous procedures. Discuss donor density, the planned hairline, expected healing, care of the recipient and donor areas, and whether medical treatment could help preserve existing hair. A clinician may also explain PRP for hair loss or scalp micropigmentation when surgery is not the right fit.

Before surgery, seek assessment for rapidly spreading loss, inflamed or painful scalp, heavy scaling, or smooth bald patches. After surgery, contact the treating team promptly for increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, persistent bleeding, or wound separation.

Ask how donor suitability was measured, how many areas may be used over time, and how the plan protects the donor zone. Clarify the technique, anaesthesia, activity restrictions, follow-up schedule, and what happens if future thinning changes the result.