Mini Grafts
The only method that can restore hair loss is hair transplantation. Hair transplants are the surgical procedure where hair is removed from one area with hair and placed into an area of little to no hair. The hair to be transplanted is taken from what is called the donor area. This is hair that is genetically programmed to not fall out. These hairs are then dissected into small sections of naturally occurring groups called micrografts and or minigrafts.
Hair follicles within the scalp grow naturally in tight clusters. Minigrafts are the naturally occurring groups of hairs that have been dissected by the hair transplant technician. They are typically larger than the 1-3 hair units of micrografts. Minigrafts range from 3-8 hairs and can measure in diameter from 1.5 -2.0 mm. As with micrografting any excess tissue that surrounds the follicles is then trimmed away. This is a very precise process requiring a skilled surgeon and technician to achieve maximum viability of the hair. The surgeon will then make openings in the scalp with a hollow tube type needle called a punch. The punch removes a small amount of bald tissue and the minigraft is then inserted into this area by the technician using small forceps and magnifying glasses. Since the scalp is very vascular, the body will form a small scab around the graft to hold it into place until the hair takes root in its new location. Transplanted hair will usually begin to grow within 3 months after surgery and then ¼- ½ inch per month.
Minigrafts and micrografts are used together in hair transplant surgery to cover a larger area of bald skin. Because the mini graft has more follicles and is slightly larger than the micrograft more coverage can be achieved. The number of grafts needed for a hair transplant will vary depending on the amount of hair loss. Multiple surgeries are most often needed to achieve the desired result and the cost can range from $2500 - $10,000 nationally. These procedures will take from 2-5 hours to complete. All transplanted hair will continue to grow throughout the life of the person. |
