Questions and answers

What is a hair transplant?

Hair transplantation with manual FUE (follicular unit extraction or sometimes called follicular unit transplantation) is a procedure for the extraction of serous and seamless hair transplants a technique that involves extracting individual hair follicles from a part of the donor's body, usually from the sides and back of the head. These individual follicles are then transplanted into the desired areas. Men are characterised by missing hair in the front part of the head, which looks like a classic horseshoe, or in the upper part of the head.

 How much does an FUE hair transplant cost?

Cost of the procedure depend on the number of grafts transplanted and the complexity of the surgery. All costs include health checks, medication, a prepared operating theatre and professional, trained hair transplant staff. Hair transplantation is a complex process and the exact number of grafts can only be determined at the time of the procedure. The cost of your hair transplant will be determined during your consultation, which can take place in the clinic in person or via Skype and Whatsapp.

What is a hair graft in a hair transplant?

A hair graft is a hair transplant unit. It contains the hair follicle, which after transplantation creates new hair. The graft is made up of follicles - usually between 1 and 4 hairs. It is also taken into account to estimate the total cost of a hair transplant operation. 

How did the FUE method of hair transplantation work? 

During the procedure, individual follicles, usually 1 to 4 hairs, are removed under local anaesthetic. The extraction procedure uses a microsurgical extraction instrument with a diameter of between 0.8 mm and 1.0 mm to remove the follicles. Surgeonusing specialised microfibre needles, then replants the follicles in the desired locations. Our doctors are experts in hair insertion, placing the hair at the right angle and density to match the original hair position and appearance. Therefore, they will resemble a natural and natural hair type.

Does transplanted hair fall out?

The transplanted hair grows very well and does not fall out. The results are permanent. The transplanted hair follicles retain a dominant factor that is resistant to the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is responsible for hair loss. 

Am I a suitable candidate for a hair transplant? 

To determine whether you are suitable for a hair transplant, several factors must be taken into account, such as the characteristics of the hair, the extent of the loss, the amount of hair you want to recover and restore, and the volume of the hair. The most accurate way to determine your suitability and options is through a consultation with the doctors at our clinic. During this consultation, your situation can be accurately assessed and honest advice can be given in person at our clinic or via Skype and WhatsApp. 

Does the clinic offer financing options?

Yes. We provide flexible and convenient payment options for our patients. Call or email to discuss. 

What should I do before hair transplant surgery? 

Before hair transplant surgery, alcohol, aspirin-containing drugs, highly saturated foods such as chilli, garlic should not be consumed for at least 3 days. We also advise against multivitamins. 

The use of such products affects the rate of blood clotting. This can cause complications both during and after the procedure. Sometimes it is useful to do some scalp care exercises to improve the condition of the scalp before hair transplant surgery. 

Will I be in pain during the hair transplant procedure? 

No. A hair transplant is not a painful procedure. The most uncomfortable thing you will feel as a patient is the first injection of local anaesthetic. Once the initial local anaesthetic injections have taken effect, all subsequent local anaesthetic injections and the procedure will be completely comfortable and numb.  

When will I see the results of my hair transplant? 

The typical result of a hair transplant starts to appear after about 3-4 months, when the hair follicles enter a new phase of hair growth. As the new hair grows, it will push out the old, transplanted hair and it will fall out to make way for the new hair growth. The appearance of thickness and fullness will continue to develop and the final results of hair transplantation are visible within 12-18 months. 

How soon after a hair transplant can I return to work? 

You can return to work after just 24 hours. This depends largely on the type of work you do and how open people are to you knowing that you have had a hair transplant. 

How soon after the procedure will my appearance return to normal? 

Usually 7 days. However, this depends on the extent of the hair transplant. It varies from patient to patient.  

Is it possible to take hair from another donor? 

No. At the moment, it is not possible to use hair from another person, regardless of whether they are your twin or a relative. The body will perceive such hair follicles as foreign and protect itself from them. This can also lead to other complications. 

Do I need to shave my hair before the treatment? 

No. The length of your hair, the type of hair transplantation technique you use will depend on whether your hair needs to be treated for a hair transplant. The best way to determine this accurately is to have a consultation with the doctors at the Rubenhair Clinic. After your assessment, we will be able to recommend the best solution for you.  

How soon after the procedure can I resume playing sport? 

Usually after 2 weeks. This is due to the amount of hair transplanted and the type of physical activity you want to resume. 

What causes hair loss? 

Hair loss is associated with many conditions or diseases. Inherited genes have the biggest impact. However, most hair loss sufferers have Androgenetic Alopecia or alopecia.

Can I shower after a hair transplant? 

You can take a shower immediately after the hair transplant. However, you should not wash your hair for 3 to 5 days. We also recommend that you avoid direct water contact with the transplant site during this time. As a protective measure, we recommend using a shower cap or something similar. 

Is the hair transplant procedure safe? 

Hair transplantation is safe if it is carried out under appropriate conditions, in a well-equipped operating theatre and by professionally trained and experienced medical staff. You can rest assured that the procedure performed at Rubenhair is completely safe. To ensure this, we have strict safety protocols in place, as the safety of our patients and clinic staff is very important to us.

Is there an age limit for hair transplantation? 

There is no age limit for the hair transplant procedure. In general, the main factors influencing eligibility are general health and the hair donor area. 

Is additional treatment necessary after a hair transplant? 

A hair transplant is the only viable option to restore the hair you have lost. It is important to realise that transplanted hair only replaces the hair that has fallen out and does not prevent the eventual loss of existing hair. The patient may need to consider ongoing preventive treatment to combat possible hair loss. 

Do hair transplants really work?

Absolutely! It's basically a very simple procedure that moves hair from one part of the scalp to another. However, it is very important that it is performed by professional hair transplantation medical staff in appropriate clinic conditions. Only then can you be sure of success. 

Are there other alternatives to hair transplantation? 

There is no alternative to hair transplantation. Hair transplant surgery provides a permanent solution for replacing fallen hair with new hair. It allows you to enjoy the regrowth, washing and styling of your hair without any restrictions. 

Does transplanted hair grow?

Absolutely! New hair that has been transplanted needs time to start a new hair growth cycle. Once the transplanted hair starts growing again, the results will be continuous. This hair growth cycle is typical 2-4 months after the hair transplant procedure. 

Can women have hair transplants?

Of course! Women's hair is no different from men's and can be transplanted in exactly the same way. However, the causes of female hair loss are not always the same as the causes of male hair loss. Women have more health tests to undergo to determine whether a hair transplant is the most appropriate solution. 

Are there any side effects after a hair transplant? 

There are no immediate side effects that patients need to worry about after a hair transplant procedure.

Does my health insurance cover hair transplants? 

Usually no! Hair transplantation is considered an elective procedure, just like cosmetic surgery. It is very unlikely that your health insurance will cover the cost of a hair transplant. However, you could ask your health insurance provider. 

How can I restore my hair?

It is important to first consult a trichologist, who is a specialist in hair treatment, to find out the root causes of hair loss. After the consultation, the trichologist will determine the most appropriate hair follicle restoration treatment to promote and ensure healthy hair growth and appearance. 

How long will the transplanted hair grow? 

DHT dihydrotestosterone is a hormone that initially causes hair loss but has no further effect on the hair that will be transplanted. Therefore, the hair that is transplanted should last forever. 

Does hair transplantation have a long-term effect? 

It is important to realise that the main long-term effect of hair transplantation is the elimination of thin hair. As a result, a hair transplant will give you a younger appearance, a better quality of life, happiness and well-being. 

What is the success rate of the hair transplant procedure? 

The success rate of 100% hair transplantation is guaranteed when performed by professional medical staff in a hair transplant clinic.  

What causes hair loss in women?

Women's hair loss can be caused by a variety of reasons. The most common causes can be thyroid disease, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), childbirth, hormonal contraceptives, diet, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, stress and menopause. In women, hair loss may also be associated with androgenic alopecia, which is similar to that in men. 

What are the ways to prevent hair loss?

The most effective way to prevent hair loss is to treat it early and effectively. Once hair is lost, the only way to restore it is with a hair transplant. You should consult a hair restoration specialist to determine whether a hair transplant will be suitable in your particular case.

What are the ways to stimulate hair growth? 

Hair growth can be optimised with a healthy diet and lifestyle. The main goal is to provide the body with sufficient vitamins, minerals and proteins. It is also important to maintain a healthy hormone balance in the body. 

Where is the hair transplant procedure performed? 

The procedure is performed at our Rubenhair Baltics clinic in Riga, which is professionally equipped to perform hair transplant surgery and the necessary health checks. 

Do I have to cut my hair? 

In some cases, we can perform hair transplantation without reducing the length of the hair, depending on the number of grafts required. However, in most cases we cut the hair short to get the best quality grafts and results. 

How many hair transplant procedures do I need? 

The number of treatments required depends on your goals, your current level of hair loss and how this might change in the future. Most patients require 2 treatments in their lifetime. 

How long does it take to see the results of a hair transplant? 

The transplanted hair will adapt and grow in 3-6 weeks after the hair transplant procedure and then start growing in 2-4 months. At around 6 months, we expect the re-growth to be halfway and the final result to be achieved in 12-14 months. Hair growth progress may vary and we recommend that you visit our medical trichologists to monitor your hair growth progress. 

Will the results after the procedure be natural? 

The FUE hair transplant procedure requires excellent surgical skills and natural artistic hair transplant experience, and we encourage you to view our gallery to see how we achieve the natural results that are the hallmark of successful hair transplant procedures. 

Can I get completely natural looking hair again? 

Hair transplantation cannot replace the natural density of hereditary hair, but with surgical planning, professional hair density placement and precise hair transplantation angles, we can achieve the appearance of natural hair density and volume.

Does a hair transplant pose a risk to my health?

The FUE procedure is very safe, minimally invasive with local anaesthesia. There are very few potential health risks and, as with any surgical procedure, the clinic takes all necessary medical precautions for patients over the age of 45.

How long does the hair transplant procedure take? 

Procedures The duration is usually 6-8 hours for a one-day hair transplant session and 12-16 hours for a 2-day session. You can rest at any time, take a break to stretch or use the facilities. The length of the treatment depends on the number of grafts required and the characteristics of your hair. The clinic provides a separate lounge for patients with a choice of food, snacks and refreshments. 

Can I read a book, watch TV or use the phone during the procedure? 

Yes, this is possible during the procedure, but we recommend listening to music on your phone, watching TV or movies on one of our tablets or TVs. This may be more comfortable as you need to change your head position during the treatment. There are power sockets nearby and you can easily charge your phone or tablet. 

What about lunch and meals on the day of the procedure? 

We offer our patients a variety of dishes in our clinic to suit all tastes. If you have any special dietary requirements, please email us 7 days before your treatment so that we can provide the food of your choice. Please inform us of any food allergies and possible reactions to any type of food. 

How many grafts will be replanted? 

Throughout the procedure, we will keep you informed about the number of grafts transplanted and the surgical progress. You can ask questions about the procedure at any time. During your lunch break, you can have a look at your grafts and the quality of your follicles, and the clinic staff will help you understand and explain the process. At the end of your procedure, we will give you a summary showing the exact number of grafts for your procedure. 

Can I have a hair transplant if I have needle phobia? 

Yes, it can be done and it is important to inform the clinic staff so that we can prepare and ensure that any needles or injection tools are placed in a way that is not visible to the patient. Needle phobia is very common and it is important that you inform the clinic staff well in advance so that we can prepare the hair transplant team to make any adjustments to make the procedure easier for the patient. 

What clothes should I wear for the procedure? 

We recommend that you arrive at the clinic on the day of the procedure in loose, sporty, comfortable clothing with thick socks. You can change your clothes in the clinic in the patient lounge. Disposable slippers will be given to you at the clinic. We will provide you with a new baseball cap after the procedure. 

What kind of post-procedure care does the patient need?

You will be informed and explained about your personalised post-procedure programme, which includes a 4-day course of antibiotics to protect against infection and, optionally, some medications to prevent post-operative swelling.  

When can I swim after the procedure? 

We recommend swimming for 14 days after the procedure, especially in swimming pools with high chlorine content. 

When can I drink alcohol? 

We recommend that you avoid alcohol for at least 7 days after the procedure, taking into account the need to take antibiotics and medication.  

Can I go on a holiday after the procedure? 

Yes, we recommend a week's rest for a perfect recovery. Please make sure you follow the post-operative instructions and avoid direct sun exposure to the transplant area for 14 days after the procedure. 

How long after the treatment can I sunbathe? 

After the hair transplantation procedure, protect yourself from direct sunlight or rain for at least 14 days. For two weeks after the procedure, we recommend that you wear a hat if you are in direct sunlight. Please make sure that you take all measures to prevent sunburn on your head for two months after the procedure. 

When can I wear a motorcycle helmet? 

We recommend waiting 7 days after the procedure to resume wearing protective clothing for activities such as motorcycling or skiing.

Improve your quality of life and book a consultation with the hair transplant and treatment specialists at Rubenhairwho will answer your questions thoroughly and determine the best course of treatment. 

Call +371 267 777 76 or fill in the online form and we will contact you.

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