1. What is a hair stem cell transplantation?
A hair stem cell transplantation is a technique in which grafts are harvested entirely or partially from the donor area. After harvesting and quality control, the hair follicles are implanted into the transplant area.
2. How does a hair stem cell transplantation work?
The procedure is performed by an experienced hair transplant specialist. The physician uses an ultra-fine hollow needle to extract grafts one by one. The follicles are then implanted into the indicated transplant area. A portion of each graft remains in the donor area, preserving it better. The grafts will resume the hair growth cycle in both the donor and transplant areas.
3. Am I suitable for a hair stem cell transplantation?
Your suitability depends on various factors, such as the cause of your hair loss, the degree of baldness, and the availability of sufficient quality donor hair. Sometimes, unrealistic expectations of the final result may also hinder the treatment.
4. What can I expect after the hair stem cell transplantation?
You can leave the clinic shortly after the procedure. It is advised not to drive yourself and to have someone accompany you. Pain is usually minimal, though you may experience scalp irritation. You may take a pain reliever depending on your pain sensitivity.
5. What kind of results can I expect from a hair stem cell transplantation?
As with other hair transplant techniques, the results are not immediately visible. Hair growth needs time to resume. The transplanted hairs typically fall out after 2 to 3 weeks—a normal bodily reaction. After about 3 months, new hair begins to grow. Final results are usually visible after 9 to 12 months.
6. Does a hair stem cell transplantation cause scarring?
Hair stem cell transplantation does not leave visible scars. The small white dots that may appear in the first few months usually fade over time.
7. Is a hair stem cell transplantation painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the treatment. Afterward, the treated area may feel irritated or itchy. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medication, and the scalp typically recovers within a few days.
8. What are the benefits of a hair stem cell transplantation?
The results are permanent—transplanted follicles continue to produce hair for life. It’s a safe cosmetic procedure with minimal pain or discomfort. It leaves no visible scarring, and the scalp generally heals quickly.
9. Are there any disadvantages to a hair stem cell transplantation?
Not everyone is eligible. If you lack sufficient donor material, satisfactory results may not be achievable. It is also a relatively expensive procedure, which can be seen as a disadvantage.
10. Can I influence the results of a hair stem cell transplantation?
Yes, positively or negatively. Following post-treatment instructions carefully can greatly improve results. This includes advice on alcohol and tobacco use, as well as scalp care. Smoking, for example, reduces blood flow and may cause the grafts to die.
11. How long does a hair stem cell transplantation take?
The duration depends on the number of grafts to be transplanted. It’s an intensive procedure, requiring precision. A session can take an entire day. More complex cases may require multiple treatment days.
12. Can women also undergo a hair stem cell transplantation?
Yes. Women can benefit from this innovative technique as well. Usually, only the donor area needs to be shaved. If your surrounding hair is long enough, it can cover the shaved area, making the procedure nearly unnoticeable.
13. Does my hair need to be shaved before the procedure?
In the past, the entire head was shaved. Today, this is usually unnecessary. Often, only the donor area is shaved. Your specialist will advise you during the consultation.
14. Is there an alternative to hair stem cell transplantation?
For early-stage hair loss, hair growth products may help, though they have temporary effects and must be used daily. Hairpieces or wigs are also options. However, for a lasting solution, a hair transplant is the only treatment that offers excellent, long-term results.
15. How long does it take to see final results?
The hair growth process takes time. On average, new hair begins to grow 3 to 4 months after the procedure. Optimal results are visible after 9 to 12 months. The rate of hair growth varies from person to person.
16. What are the expected costs of a hair stem cell transplantation?
Costs largely depend on the number of grafts. Each clinic sets its own prices, so it’s wise to request quotes from several providers. Prices start around €3,300 for smaller procedures and can exceed €9,400 for complex ones.
17. Why is a hair transplant cheaper abroad?
Hair transplants are also offered in countries like Belgium, Germany, Thailand, and Turkey, often at lower rates due to lower labor costs. However, additional travel and accommodation expenses should be considered, which may make foreign treatments less cost-effective than they seem.
18. Why is aftercare important following a hair stem cell transplantation?
It’s a significant procedure, and your scalp needs time to heal. Proper aftercare reduces the risk of complications. If you have concerns during recovery or experience side effects, the clinic will provide support and guidance.
19. Are hair stem cell transplant costs reimbursed?
In cases of hair loss due to illness, accidents, or burns, full or partial reimbursement may be possible. Cosmetic procedures are generally not reimbursed. In some cases of severe psychological distress, reimbursement may be granted with confirmation from a medical specialist and psychologist. Check your health insurance policy for details.
20. What are the risks of a hair stem cell transplantation?
It is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical treatment, complications can occur. These may include allergic reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, or poor wound healing. Carefully following your doctor’s instructions reduces these risks.
21. When can I return to my daily activities?
Take it easy during the first week. Avoid hitting your head and resume light activities after a few days. Strenuous labor, sports, swimming, or visiting saunas should be avoided for one to two weeks. You can swim again once scabs are gone and the skin is fully healed.
22. Can I pay for a hair stem cell transplantation in installments?
We work with a financing provider who can offer detailed information on installment options. Be aware that a credit check is required, and monthly payments include interest. Consider this carefully when opting for cosmetic treatment.
23. Can existing scars be treated with a hair stem cell transplantation?
Hair does not naturally grow on scar tissue. Especially if you have a scar on your scalp, it can make you feel self-conscious. With a hair stem cell transplantation, it is possible to restore hair growth on a scar. The results achieved with this procedure are generally good and long-lasting.
24. Can burn wounds be treated with a hair stem cell transplantation?
This varies per individual. Your specific case should be assessed by an experienced hair stem cell transplantation specialist. During a consultation, the possibilities and expected results will be evaluated based on your situation.
25. Is afro-textured hair suitable for a hair stem cell transplantation?
Standard hair transplants for afro-textured hair are not performed by every clinic. This type of hair has a different structure than straight hair and requires a lot of experience and precision to transplant successfully, especially because afro hair also curls beneath the skin. A hair stem cell transplant may not be suitable for everyone with afro-textured hair. First, potential results will be assessed before scheduling a treatment.
26. Can the results of a previous hair transplant be improved with a hair stem cell transplantation?
If you’re dissatisfied with the outcome of a previous FUE or FUT hair transplant, a hair stem cell transplant may be a solution. This technique can enhance the results of an earlier procedure. Of course, this depends in part on the availability of sufficient donor material.
27. What is the difference between a hair stem cell, a FUT, and a FUE hair transplant?
The main difference between FUE, FUT, and hair stem cell transplants is that with a hair stem cell transplant, the entire follicle is not removed from the donor area. In contrast, both the FUT and FUE techniques extract the full follicle. In a FUT transplant, even a small strip of skin is removed from the donor area. The hair stem cell technique leaves part of the follicle behind, making it a particularly effective method for increasing density and volume.
28. How many grafts or hair follicles can be transplanted in one session?
With a hair stem cell transplantation, a maximum of about 2,000 grafts can be transplanted in one day. The exact number depends on your goals and the availability of donor material. More extensive treatments may be spread over multiple sessions.
29. Do all transplanted hair follicles survive?
Hair transplant specialists expect nearly all transplanted grafts to survive. Shortly after the procedure, the follicles are at their most vulnerable. For various reasons, a small percentage may be lost. By carefully following the specialist’s instructions and aftercare advice, this percentage can be kept to an absolute minimum.
30. Can a hair stem cell transplantation be performed on everyone?
Hair loss and hair problems can generally be treated in both men and women. Whether a hair stem cell transplant is the right solution for you will be discussed by an experienced physician. In some cases, an alternative treatment may be recommended.
31. Is a hair stem cell transplantation suitable for treating eyebrows?
Eyebrow transplants are typically performed using the FUE technique. However, the hair stem cell transplantation method is very refined and, when used for eyebrows, offers a relatively short recovery period. The results appear natural.
32. Can beard and mustache hairs be treated with a hair stem cell transplantation?
Similar to eyebrow transplants, beard transplants can also be performed using the hair stem cell technique. Scarring is minimal to nonexistent, and the results are natural-looking.
33. Where can I go for a hair stem cell transplantation?
Hair stem cell transplantation is not a standard method and is only available at a limited number of clinics in the Netherlands. This institute has several locations worldwide. The technique is constantly being refined and improved.
34. Should I choose a hair stem cell transplantation or a FUE hair transplant?
You can make an informed decision once you’ve researched both techniques, compared them, weighed the pros and cons, and attended consultations at several clinics. Trust your intuition—it’s important that you feel comfortable with both the clinic and the specialist. If you don’t feel confident with a provider offering hair stem cell transplantation, then a FUE transplant is an excellent alternative with proven, reliable results.
35. Isn’t a hair stem cell transplantation basically the same as a FUE hair transplant?
Although the techniques are quite similar, the difference lies in how the grafts are harvested. In the FUE method, the entire follicle is removed and transplanted to the balding area. In a hair stem cell transplantation, the graft is essentially “shared,” so that part of the follicle remains in the donor area, and part is transplanted. So yes, there is a distinct difference between the two techniques.
36. Why isn’t this technique offered by every hair clinic?
Hair stem cell transplantation is still being developed and requires specialized doctors. The FUE technique is widely accepted and has been successfully used by experienced doctors and surgeons for years. For that reason, it’s not straightforward for a clinic to switch methods or to offer this technique alongside the FUE method.
37. Does hair stem cell transplantation have a future?
No one knows exactly what the future holds. The technique will likely continue to evolve and improve in the coming years. Long-term results will play an important role in that development. For now, the FUE technique remains the most widely used and trusted method.
