SAGE MEDICAL | HAIR TRANSPLANT CLINIC | WE CARE ABOUT YOUR HAIR
Hair Transplant Treatment in Singapore
Regain your hair and confidence
Restore a Youthful Hairline
Dr. Zhang Yi Jun
Dr Zhang Yi Jun is a medical practitioner with specialised training in dermatology and non-invasive medical aesthetics. After receiving his medical and postgraduate qualifications from the National University of Singapore and further dermatology training from Cardiff University in the UK, Dr. Zhang founded Sage Medical Clinic. His clinical practice focuses on comprehensive approaches to hair restoration and aesthetic enhancements, leveraging his understanding of dermatological health to support patient outcomes in hair loss treatments.
Meet the Hair Transplant Team
Dr Zhang Yi Jun, Founder and Medical Director/Surgeon of Sage Medical Clinic, has carefully reviewed the information on this page.
What is the Success Rate of Hair Transplants?
Studies such as “Review of Factors Affecting the Growth and Survival of Follicular Grafts,” published in the National Library of Medicine, emphasise the importance of the patient’s health status, hair characteristics, and surgical technique when it comes to the potential success of hair transplants. These studies report that the survival rates of transplanted follicles typically range from 90% to above 100%, suggesting a potentially high level of efficacy in hair transplantation when performed under ideal conditions.
Hair transplants like the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplants are believed to be definitive and have a proven track record. Not just a mere hair transplant for hair on the scalp, FUE hair transplants can also be done on the face as well as in scarred bald patches. However, there is currently no available study presenting the long-term outcomes following the FUE procedure. According to the article “Effect of Follicular Unit Extraction on the Donor Area,” published in the National Library of Medicine, critical factors that influence the success of an FUE surgery are the quantity of hair extracted from the donor region and the transection rate (percentage of follicular units damaged due to extraction-related mechanical trauma). Various individual factors also come into play when predicting the success of a hair restoration procedure, including the patient’s age, type of baldness, family history, and environmental influences. In addition, the success rate also depends on a number of factors, including one’s health status, blood flow, infection, and proper healing.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Hair Transplants?
Even after implementing several hair loss treatments such as topical treatment applications or taking oral medication, hair growth can still be an issue that makes one uncomfortable till it affects their quality of life. And while balding is indeed common amongst male and female pattern hair loss, surgical hair transplantation becomes an option when it progresses into a permanent issue or affects too much of the scalp area. However, not all individuals experiencing hair loss and balding are suitable candidates for hair transplant treatments, as stated in journal articles published in the National Library of Medicine.
Patients will first have to be assessed for suitability, and this includes looking into the extent of hair loss, the availability of a healthy scalp to extract hair follicles for the transplant, and the patient’s lifestyle habits. Patients with medical conditions like Cicatricial Alopecia, Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia, or even Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Trichotillomania may not be appropriate candidates for hair transplant treatments. Due to the many factors that must be considered, careful and detailed medical and family history analysis, as well as a physical and microscopic examination, must be done at the time of consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
Age
The patient’s age is an essential factor to consider when determining suitability for hair transplant surgery. While no specific age limit exists, individuals who have reached adulthood and have stable hair loss patterns are generally regarded as suitable candidates. Younger patients may also be advised to wait until their hair loss pattern stabilises before undergoing a hair transplant.
Sex
Hair transplants are suitable for both men and women experiencing hair loss. The underlying cause and pattern of hair loss may differ between sexes, but the transplant procedure can help address these concerns in both cases.
Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in hair loss patterns. If you have a family history of hair loss, it increases the likelihood of experiencing hair loss yourself. However, hair transplant procedures can address genetic hair loss by transplanting healthy hair follicles to areas of thinning or balding hair.
Stress
According to Mayo Clinic, stress can also contribute to hair loss or accelerate existing hair loss conditions. While it is not a direct determinant of suitability for hair transplants, managing stress levels and addressing any underlying causes of hair loss is an important aspect of comprehensive hair restoration.
Hormones
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, hormones have a profound influence on hair growth, affecting the hair cycle and the structure of hair follicles. Disturbances in hormonal balance can lead to various changes in hair growth and cycling. For example, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterised by the presence of cysts on a woman’s ovaries, is accompanied by a range of associated signs and symptoms, including hair loss. Additionally, discontinuing certain types of medication can result in a temporary disruption of hormonal equilibrium. For women affected by such hormonal imbalances, one potential consequence is the development of thinning hair or even hair loss on their scalp. As such, these conditions require a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment to effectively address their impact on hair health before considering hair transplants.
Diet
Nutrient deficiencies can contribute to hair loss, although identifying and addressing these deficiencies should be based on an individual’s medical history and physical examination. These deficiencies can stem from various factors, including genetics, medical conditions, or dietary habits. It’s essential to conduct a thorough assessment to determine the specific nutrient deficiencies and tailor treatment accordingly instead of immediately considering hair transplants.
Scalp Infection
Scalp infections, as noted by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, can manifest as scaly and occasionally inflamed patches on the scalp. Notably, individuals may observe what appear to be tiny black dots on the scalp, which are, in fact, remnants of hair. In more severe cases, some individuals may even develop a bald spot as a consequence of such infections. Individuals with such scalp infections should generally avoid undergoing a hair transplant until the infection has been successfully treated and resolved.
What Type of Tests Will We Conduct to Assess Suitability for FUE Hair Transplant Surgery?
During the consultation at a hair transplant clinic in Singapore, several tests will be conducted to assess the suitability of the patient for FUE hair transplant treatment. This process involves discussing the patient’s goals and expectations, evaluating the condition and history of hair loss, and considering various personal factors such as age, sex, and facial contours. Beyond these evaluations, additional tests will be conducted to help develop a tailored surgical plan. Some of these tests may include:
Medical and Family History Analysis
A thorough analysis of the patient’s medical history and family history will be conducted to understand any underlying health conditions or genetic factors that may impact the success of the hair transplant procedure. This analysis may include assessing any hereditary patterns of hair loss, previous medical treatments, and current health conditions. It’s essential to disclose all medications being taken, as some may affect the transplant process or overall hair growth. Understanding the patient’s complete health background helps in preemptively addressing any issues that could compromise the transplant’s success or even rule out hair transplants for treatable hair loss.
Physical Examination
A physical examination of the scalp and hair will be performed to evaluate the extent of hair loss, the condition of the donor area, and the overall health of the scalp. This step is vital for determining the best approach for the hair transplant. The examination helps ascertain the density of hair follicles available for transplantation and the scalp’s overall condition, ensuring the donor areas are healthy and capable of contributing to successful outcomes.
Microscopic Examination
Microscopic examination of the hair and scalp allows for a detailed analysis of the hair follicles, their health, and the potential for a smooth procedure. This detailed scrutiny helps in identifying any potential issues that might not be visible to the naked eye, such as the miniaturisation of follicles or scalp infections.
Additional Tests
In some cases, additional tests such as blood tests or scalp biopsies may be recommended to further evaluate the underlying causes of hair loss and ensure the suitability for surgery. Blood tests, for example, might be leveraged to check for any systemic conditions that might affect hair growth or wound healing. Hormonal imbalances often contributing to hair loss can also be assessed through specific tests. In cases where scalp conditions are suspected, dermatological evaluations, including biopsies, might be performed to diagnose and address any underlying skin issues effectively.
By conducting these tests, hair specialists can determine the appropriate treatment plan and discuss the expected outcomes with the patient.
What Type of FUE System Does Sage Medical Use?
There are two primary methods in FUE hair transplantation: Manual FUE and Robotic FUE. Manual FUE involves a skilled surgeon who uses a handheld tool to extract individual hair follicles from the donor area. Conversely, Robotic FUE employs a robotic hair transplant device that is guided by the physician.
At Sage Medical Clinic, we employ the Manual FUE system as it offers control and flexibility, allowing our surgeons to tailor each extraction to the patient’s unique needs. This hands-on approach ensures that each follicle is carefully harvested, contributing to the overall success and a potentially natural appearance of the transplant.
How Long Will a Hair Transplant Procedure in Singapore Take?
This is highly dependent on the number of grafts required for the hair transplant to be complete. This means that for serious hair loss conditions, the time required for the FUE hair transplant treatment may be extended. In general, however, FUE hair transplants take approximately 6 to 9 hours. But do note that the specific timeframe will be determined during your consultation based on the extent of your hair loss and the number of grafts needed.
Learn More About Hair Transplants with Sage Medical Today
To learn more about FUE hair transplant and to discuss your specific hair loss concerns, consider scheduling a consultation with Sage Medical. During this consultation, our hair specialists will conduct a thorough assessment and offer potential treatment recommendations tailored to your needs. Take the first step towards regaining your hair and confidence and learn how a targeted hair restoration approach can potentially transform your appearance and self-perception.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hair Loss?
There is a common misconception that only men suffer from hair loss. However, reports such as those published in The Straits Times demonstrate that male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss are common in Singapore and beyond. While experiencing some hair fall on a daily basis is normal, excessive hair loss can lead to a thinning crown, receding hairline, a wider parting, or patchy hair on the scalp and other hair-bearing areas, indicating an underlying issue. It is also essential to note that various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, stress, ageing, and more, can cause hair loss.
What Happens After a Hair Transplant?
At Sage Medical Clinic, our hair specialists will see you through the entire journey of hair restoration. When it comes to post-FUE surgery, life goes back to normal.
- Day after the surgery: One day after the FUE hair transplant, patients will have to return to our hair transplant clinic in Singapore for bandage removal and for a scalp wash to maintain the hygiene of the donor area. There is also a list of things to avoid but no special maintenance is required for the transplanted hairs, and further instructions will be provided on how to care for your scalp.
- One to three days post-procedure: The treated areas start to dry, and you may notice the formation of small scabs. Avoid the temptation to scratch or pick at these scabs; they will naturally shed on their own.
- Three to five days post-procedure: Consider keeping your schedule light and spending more time indoors. This minimises exposure to potentially unclean environments, excessive sun exposure, sweat, and oil production that can affect the newly grafted areas. Be sure to steer clear of any physical activity in the first week.
- Ten days to two weeks post-procedure: You can return to your normal daily activities, including running errands and the like.
- Three weeks to a month post-procedure: It’s advisable to steer clear of contact sports and strenuous exercises during this period. This precaution ensures the scalp has sufficient time to heal.
- Three to four months post-procedure: Should there be hair loss experienced post-surgery in the non-transplanted areas, our hair transplant clinic has a range of maintenance treatments such as laser treatments, to counteract these issues.
Other Things to Avoid After a Hair Transplant
After your FUE hair transplant, it’s crucial to avoid certain activities and behaviours to promote proper healing and hair graft survival:
- Strenuous Physical Exercise: Activities like golfing and intense workouts should be avoided during the first week. Light exercises can be resumed after a few days.
- Avoid Submerging Your Scalp: Steer clear of immersing your scalp in baths or pools, as it may expose the grafts to potential contamination.
- Limit Styling Products: Refrain from using styling or chemical sprays that could irritate the treated areas.
- Minimise Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure can harm both your scalp and newly transplanted hair follicles, as your scalp is especially sensitive to UV rays post-procedure.
- Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: These substances can affect blood circulation to the scalp, which is vital for recovery.
- No Hair Dye: Chemicals in hair dyes can be harsh on the scalp; avoid dyeing your hair during the healing phase.
- Hands Off: Resist the urge to touch or rub your head, as this can disrupt the grafts.
- Sleeping Position: Keep your head elevated when sleeping for the first two to three days.
- Be Cautious with Hats: While it’s okay to wear loose-fitting hats after the first two days, be careful not to dislodge the grafts.
Potential Benefits of FUE Hair Transplant
FUE hair transplants may offer several benefits for individuals experiencing hair loss. Some of the key advantages include:
Hardly Perceptible Scars
Given that the excisions are small, the scars left are also hardly perceptible, and no one will know that surgery has been done. Once the healthy hair follicle is implanted in the donor area, it will continue to grow. For individuals worried about the hair density of the harvesting area, you can rest assured that the random microdots made using the appropriate instruments will not affect surrounding hair follicles. Moreover, given the ample amount of hair found in the back of the hair, minimal to no reduction of density will be experienced.
Minimally Invasive Procedure
FUE hair transplant is a minimally invasive procedure that involves extracting individual hair follicles rather than a strip of scalp. This minimises scarring and allows for hassle-free healing and recovery. The hair transplant also takes approximately 6 to 9 hours.
Customised Treatment
At Sage Medical Clinic, our hair specialists personalise each FUE hair transplant treatment to suit the unique needs of the patient. Factors such as age, sex, facial contours, and desired hair density are taken into consideration before the procedure is finalised.
No Special Maintenance Required
The small excisions will scab in a matter of days and shed naturally, and no special care is also required after this. This means that once the transplanted hair starts to grow, it requires no special maintenance. The transplanted hair can be treated and styled just like natural hair, providing a hassle-free solution for long-term hair restoration.
What Are the Differences Between FUT and FUE Hair Transplants
Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT) and FUE are two different techniques used in hair transplantation. Each technique has its advantages and considerations, and the choice between FUT and FUE will depend on factors such as the patient’s specific needs and the hair transplant specialist’s recommendation. It is important to consult with a qualified professional to determine the most suitable technique for your hair restoration goals.
| Key Differences | FUT Hair Transplants | FUE Hair Transplants |
|---|---|---|
Extraction Method |
Removal of a strip of scalp from the back of the head, this is known as the strip harvesting method. | Extraction of individual hair follicles directly from the donor area. |
Scarring |
Leaves a linear scar at the donor site. | Leaves tiny, dot-like scars that are less noticeable. |
Healing Time |
Requires extended healing time due to the surgical incision. | Quick healing with minimal scarring, often allowing for shorter recovery periods. |
Donor Area |
Limited to areas with sufficient hair density, often the back of the head. | Uses healthy hair follicles from the back of a patient’s head but there is flexibility in choosing donor areas, including beard and body hair. |
Graft Survival |
Generally has a high graft survival rate. | Also maintains a high graft survival rate. |
Surgical Technique |
Involves sutures for wound closure. | No sutures needed, as small incisions heal naturally. |
Discomfort and Pain |
May involve some discomfort and pain during recovery. | Typically results in less discomfort and pain during recovery. |
Suitable Candidates |
Suitable for patients with specific hair loss patterns and donor area quality. | Suitable for various hair loss patterns and donor area types. |
Post-Operative Care |
May involve detailed postoperative care. | Generally has simpler postoperative care steps. |
Hair Density Preservation |
May cause some reduction in hair density at the donor site. | Preserves hair density at the donor site. |