The Advantages of Our Hair Transplant Technique
Although hair transplants have been performed since the late 1800’s, the modern technique of using hair from the genetically stable scalp (the donor area), was developed in the late 1950’s by Dr. Norman Orentreich.
Over the past 30 years, Dr. B.L. Limmer and his research team developed and perfected a technique now referred to nation-wide as the “Gold Standard” of hair transplantation: Microscopically Magnified Follicular Unit Micrografting.
Using Microscopically Magnified Follicular Unit Transplantation, our Doctors produce minute grafts of one to three hair follicles (Follicular Unit) and transplant them into balding areas. When performed by highly skilled individuals such as our Doctors and our technicians, the results are indistinguishable from native hair growth.
Dr. Limmer’s ground-breaking technique is now employed by many of the world’s best hair transplant surgeons.
The Microscope Makes the Difference
After a strip of hair is carefully removed from the donor site (typically in the back of the scalp), it is placed under a powerful microscope so follicular units (micrografts) can be meticulously separated. The quality and size of grafts produced by this technique cannot be matched by any other method.
Through careful donor harvest and dissection, superior visualization under Binocular Stereoscopic Magnification results in pristine graft creation.
These carefully dissected micrografts can then be densely placed into the recipient scalp to provide an elegant cosmetic effect. The results are so natural that most people will never know that you’ve had a transplant.
Learn more about our hair transplant and hair restoration techniques by contacting us!
What Is a Hair Transplant / Restoration?
Hair transplantation surgery is a technique that harvests carefully selected hair follicles from a donor section of the body (such as the back of the head) and surgically implants them into the balding site. The result of this minimally invasive procedure is an entirely natural look and feel. Unlike topical and oral medications for hair loss, the results are essentially permanent.
How Much Does A Hair Transplant Cost?
The cost of a hair transplant will vary from person to person and is contingent upon the number of grafts and the method involved. For the Strip Harvest method, also referred to as FUT, a small case of only 500 grafts, at $6.00 per graft, will come out to around $3,000. A larger case, such as to restore an entire frontal hairline with 1,750 grafts, the price per graft is $4.25, and will come out to around $7,400.
For the ARTAS Robotic (FUE) method, small cases of 500-750 grafts are $8.00 per graft, which is $4,000-6000. Larger cases of 1500-1,750 rafts, has the cost per graft reduced to $6.25 per graft, so the total cost is between $9,000-$11,000. It should be noted that performing a hair transplant is a time-consuming, tedious process and requires the strict attention of the attending surgeon. For both FUT and FUE, sessions of over 2,000 grafts, it will necessitate a 2-day hair transplant session.
Insurance companies will not cover hair transplants as they consider it to be a cosmetic procedure. The good news is that the relative cost of a hair transplant is reasonable for many people to afford.
What’s Involved?
After the initial consultation with the hair transplant surgeon, an appointment will be set for the procedure date. On the day of the procedure, the surgeon will carefully select an area on your scalp for the donor hairs. There are several methods for harvesting hairs, and your surgeon will use the one you decided upon during your initial consultation.
Once the hairs have been harvested, the transplant process will begin. It can take upwards of 8 hours, depending on how many grafts are being transplanted. The surgeon will oversee the entire procedure, as each graft has to be individually and meticulously transplanted into the recipient area.
After the procedure the surgeon will provide you with medications, supplies, and after-care instructions to ensure the best chance of success. It’s important to follow the directions carefully and keep the transplant area out of the sun. After two to three months, new hair will start to grow and will thicken over the next six to nine months.
What Are the Different Types of Transplants?
Currently, we offer two hair transplant options: FUE and FUT. Each comes with pros and cons.
The FUE method does not require sutures which makes post-op pain minimal. Instead of a linear scar it leaves multiple small dot-shaped scars – which are virtually undetectable once healed, even with shorter haircuts. This procedure requires shaving of the entire donor scalp and it costs more than the FUT method.
With the FUT method, dissolvable sutures will be used to close the incision, but they will be covered by the existing hair immediately post-op so it’s less conspicuous. There is no shaving required. You might experience 2-3 days of post-op discomfort, which may require pain medication. A long thin scar is created which can be usually be completely covered by ½ inch hair or more. The cost for the FUT method is less than the FUE.
Ask your doctor for advice on which method will be right for the results you’re trying to achieve. Click here to learn more about the hair transplant procedure.
Eyebrows, Beards, Mustaches, & Scar Hair Restoration
Our hair restoration techniques can also be used to recreate lost eyebrows, beards and mustaches. Scalp scars from surgery, radiation, trauma, or other cosmetic procedures can also be improved or camouflaged with transplanted hairs.
Hair Restoration in San Antonio
If you’re experiencing thinning hair or male pattern baldness, schedule a consultation or give us a call at (210) 496-9992. At the Limmer Hair Transplant Center, we pioneered hair transplants over 40 years ago. We use the latest hair transplant technology to give you a naturally looking head of hair, as well as restoring your self-confidence!
Request an Appointment Today!