Does an Actual MD Perform the Hair Transplant Surgery?

Some doctor do the entire surgery all by themselves.  However this is rare and can be inefficient. While it is understandable that the patient may want the doctor to be the surgeon who conducts the entire surgery, hair transplant surgery is team work. A medical doctor (MD or DO) is required for harvesting and making any incision on the skin.

Yes, all hair transplants in the US need to be done by a physician.  Most top hair transplant surgeons are assisted by highly experienced hair transplant technicians, who typically dissect out the hairs under microscopes and help with the planting of the grafts.

No, the medical professional performing the installation of the grafts does not have to be a certified physician. However, the surgeon does perform the graft excision and prepare the slits in the recipient area where the transplanted hair will be installed. The slits made are what determine hairline design, density, and global growth pattern. Additionally, there is always an M.D. present to manage every aspect of surgery.

The physician harvest the grafts and closes the wound.  The surgeon then prepares the recipient sites for the grafts.  The technician then places the grafts into the recipient sites. 

Dr. ES

One of the most difficult parts of a natural appearing hair transplant is the design of the hairline and this is typically done by the surgeon.  Removing the hair to be transplanted is considered surgery and is also done by a doctor or, depending on the state, an advanced practitioner.  Placing the grafts in the previously made slots is typically done by an experienced technician.  Find someone you trust.  Good luck!