Hair loss is common — and yet, when it happens to us, it can feel isolating and frustrating. For many patients who visit me, it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about confidence, identity, and sometimes even emotional well-being.
Hair transplantation has become a reliable, minimally invasive option for restoring lost hair, and in the last decade, the techniques have evolved significantly. If you’re considering a hair transplant in Bangalore or simply want to understand more about the process, here’s a breakdown of the what, why, when, and how.
What Is Hair Transplantation?
Hair transplantation is a surgical technique that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the scalp (usually the back or sides, where hair is denser) to areas experiencing thinning or baldness. These follicles, once transplanted, continue to grow in their new location — behaving just like the natural hair they replaced.
There are two commonly used techniques:
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) – individual follicles are harvested and implanted one by one. This method is less invasive and leaves no linear scar.
- FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) – a strip of scalp is removed, from which follicles are extracted and transplanted. This is sometimes preferred when a larger number of grafts are needed.
The choice of technique depends on the extent of hair loss, scalp condition, and patient expectations.
Why Consider a Hair Transplant?
While there are several non-surgical approaches to slowing hair loss — including medications and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy — transplantation is currently the most definitive solution for restoring lost hair. It offers:
- Permanence: The transplanted follicles are typically resistant to the hormone (DHT) that causes hair loss.
- Natural results: When performed correctly, the new hairline mimics your original pattern.
- Low maintenance: Once healed, the new hair doesn’t require special care or ongoing treatments.
It’s not about vanity. For many patients, it’s about restoring what they’ve lost and improving how they feel about themselves.
When Is the Right Time for a Hair Transplant?
This is a question I get often — and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
In general, the best time is when the pattern of hair loss has stabilized. Performing a transplant too early, while the hairline is still actively receding, can lead to uneven results over time.
Men with male-pattern baldness often begin considering the procedure in their late 20s to 30s, while women (who typically experience diffuse thinning rather than patches) may be candidates once underlying medical causes are ruled out.
A consultation helps determine readiness. We assess scalp health, donor hair availability, and the progression of hair loss before recommending any treatment.
How Does the Recovery Work?
Recovery from a hair transplant is fairly straightforward, but there are important phases to understand:
- Initial healing (First 5–7 days): Some swelling and scabbing are expected. Most patients return to work within a few days.
- Shedding phase (Weeks 2–6): Transplanted hairs fall out — a normal part of the cycle.
- Regrowth phase (Months 3–6): New hair starts to emerge.
- Full results (By 12 months): Hair thickens and settles into a natural pattern.
Proper post-operative care — including gentle washing, sun protection, and avoiding strenuous activity early on — plays a big role in outcomes.
How Do Results Hold Up Over Time?
One of the most reassuring aspects of modern hair transplantation is its longevity. Since the follicles used are genetically resistant to balding, the results are considered permanent. However, surrounding non-transplanted hair may continue to thin, which is why long-term planning is crucial.
In some cases, additional procedures are needed years later — not because the transplant failed, but to address ongoing hair loss in untreated areas.
Hair transplantation isn’t just a cosmetic procedure — it’s a considered, medical approach to treating a condition that affects millions. When done with the right planning, realistic expectations, and expert technique, it can offer lasting, natural-looking results.
Like with any surgical intervention, it’s important to have a detailed conversation with your surgeon. Ask questions, understand the phases, and choose an approach that’s right for your stage of hair loss and your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is a hair transplant permanent?
Yes. The transplanted hair follicles are typically resistant to DHT (the hormone responsible for hair loss), which makes the results long-lasting. However, non-transplanted hair may continue to thin over time, so long-term planning is important.
Q2: What is the right age to get a hair transplant?
There’s no fixed age. Most men consider it in their late 20s or 30s once their pattern of hair loss stabilizes. Women can also be candidates, but it’s essential to first evaluate for underlying causes like hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.
Q3: Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so there’s minimal discomfort during the surgery. Most patients report only mild soreness or tightness in the days following the procedure.
Q4: How soon can I resume work after a hair transplant?
Most patients are able to return to light work or desk jobs within 3–5 days. Some minor scabbing or redness may be visible but usually fades quickly.
Q5: What’s the difference between FUE and FUT?
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) involves removing and transplanting individual follicles, resulting in minimal scarring. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) involves removing a strip of scalp and is better suited for patients who need a large number of grafts. The choice depends on your hair loss pattern and scalp condition.
Q6: Will the new hair look natural?
Yes. When designed and placed correctly, the new hairline looks completely natural. At Tara Healthcare, we tailor every transplant to complement your natural features and growth pattern.
Q7: How long does it take to see results?
Most patients notice new hair growth starting around 3–4 months post-procedure, with full results visible by 9–12 months. An initial shedding phase is normal and expected.
Q8: Can I combine a hair transplant with other treatments?
Definitely. Many patients continue with treatments like PRP therapy or hair medications to support ongoing hair health and prevent further thinning.
About Dr. Karan Shetty
Dr. Karan Shetty is a board-certified plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeon based in Bangalore. With training in Germany, Japan, and Spain, he brings over 10 years of clinical experience in procedures like rhinoplasty, gynecomastia, liposuction, breast aesthetics, and hair restoration. He currently serves as Chief Consultant at Tara Healthcare and is a member of KAPRAS, ISAPS, and IAAPS.
Contact Tara Healthcare
Phone: +91 77607 00133
Email: info@tarahealthcare.co.in
Address: No. 681, Ground Floor, 10th A Main Road, 4th Block Jayanagar, Bengaluru 560011