How Will Hair Transection Affect My Hair Transplant?

Transection refers to the accidentally harming or cutting the hair bulb, which are responsible for hair growth.

If too many hair follicles are harmed during a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) transplant, it will be less successful. So how can the risk of transection be minimised?

Follicular Unit Extraction explained

FUE is a procedure in which hair follicles are removed from a donor area on a patient’s scalp, usually at the back.

Unlike the FUT hair transplant procedure that removes an entire strip of skin, during an FUE procedure the hair follicles are extracted one at a time and are then implanted in the areas where hair loss has occurred. If the procedure is done correctly, it won’t leave any visible scars.

How do hair transections happen?

Hair transections can occur during both types of hair transplant procedures when the hair follicles are extracted as well as when they’re being implanted again. Even if you’re dealing with a highly-skilled surgeon, some transection will occur.

When a surgeon makes an incision at the back of the head, the blade will cut through and damage some of the hair bulbs. Damaged bulbs can’t be used in the transplant process.

Applying too much pressure to the scalp or using blunt instruments can also lead to transection.

It’s incredibly important for a surgeon to participate in the hair transplant procedure from start to finish. Some surgeons only supervise the procedures, which is when transection can happen more easily.

Avoiding hair transections

The use of proper tools is one way to avoid transections. During a hair transplant at Medici Capelli Clinic, only the specialised instruments are used to ensure the best possible results and as little transection as possible. Using the right tools also means that scarring can be greatly reduced.

Acceptable hair transection rates

Even though some transection is normal, it’s important to minimise it as much as possible as patients only have a certain number of donor follicles available.

A good average transection rate is 5% or less but there are some clinics that have a transection rate of between 20% and 75%, which speaks to the importance of selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon for this procedure.

In summary…

• Hair transection refers to harming the bulb part of the hair follicle, which can hinder or prevent hair growth altogether
• Hair transection can be minimised with the use of proper tools as well as practicing quality control
• Reputable surgeons will participate in the procedure from start to finish
• FUE hair transplant surgeons need to have the right training and experience to perform this procedure effectively
• Hair technicians shouldn’t be involved with punching grafts

Overall, by taking the time to select the right clinic and hair transplant surgeon, you can successfully achieve a full head of hair once more. Consult with more than one hair transplant surgeon before you decide to go ahead so that you consider all available options in your area.