There are several factors that lead to optimizing success in a hair transplant, and some of those factors are different for individual patients. This is why one of the most important factors is selecting a knowledgable, experienced doctor who is really dedicated to hair RESTORATION, rather than just hair transplantation. Restoration may include transplantation, non-surgical treatments, or a combination of both. Some factors contributing to a successful outcome include:
1. Patient selection. Several aspects individual to a given patient are important in a good outcome, such as the available yield in their donor area, their degree of hair loss, and their expectations. For example, a patient with very advanced hair loss and a poor donor area hoping for thick, full scalp density with a hairline of a 20 year old is going to be disappointed in the outcome, no matter what was promised to them.
2. Patient expectations. A patient should have realistic expectations of what hair restoration can achieve for them. Being dishonest with yourself about what can be achieved will lead to a disappointing outcome.
3. A skilled surgeon. Surgical skill can make a difference in hairline design, healing, graft survival, graft placement, density, and patient selection and expectations.
4. A skilled team. Hair transplant surgery is a team sport, with everyone contributing something important. An inexperienced team, or a team that is not invested in your outcome, can lead to a sub-optimal result.
5. Attention to supportive non-surgical treatments. Ongoing hair loss, and the lack of effort in restoring existing hair, can lead to an overall poor result, especially with time. Your hair transplant surgeon should discuss these non-surgical options with you in detail so you can make an informed choice.
There are many more factors, too numerous to list here. My general recommendation is to choose an experienced doctor who's practice is dedicated solely to all aspects of hair restoration. Ask some basic questions about their approach to hair restoration and go from there.
