What are hair plugs and how do they work?

When the rate of hair loss overcomes the growth rate of the remaining hair, hair

growth may regress and this can lead to hair loss. It is safe to say that both men

and women will probably not want to be bald in the long run. Fortunately, there are

various hair restoration procedures in reinstating terminal hair on the scalp and

face (eyebrow, eyelashes, beard). Hair plugs is one of those.

Hair plugs, a surgical procedure in managing hair loss among men and women, has

grown popularity during the 1990’s. A 3-5 mm portion of scalp with healthy hair

(donor site) is punched out resembling a “plug” of hair. These are then placed on

the part experiencing hair loss (recipient site). Basically, lumps of hair are

unplugged from the donor site and then plugged in as a unit at the recipient site.

Upon healing, the donated section will adhere on the receiving site and continue on

as the new scalp nurturing the healthy hair. In 2-3 months, natural hair may be

expected to grow. Technically, these transplanted hair are meant to grow, appear

and function like non-transplanted hair. However, there can be chances of hair fall

and this may entail additional actions.

Since hair plugs is quite an older version of hair transplanting, hair plugs include a

significant amount of graft and incisions. The grafts are a lot bigger than the

current techniques in hair transplants. This may be an issue for some patients

during post surgery healing as there can be scarring. Also, when people say hair

plugs, they are referring to the doll - like hair transplants or row of corn appearing

hair. This may be unaesthetic.

Hair plugs has its own indications and contraindications and advantages and

disadvantages. This procedure also yields permanent natural hair that patients can

enjoy once favorable healing is achieved. If you are interested in hair plugs, it is

always advisable to consult a physician to confirm if this is the best treatment

option in your impeding hair loss.