2nd FUT Hair Transplant, 44yr Old Male, Norwood Class 2. Mexico, MX

My first FUT transplant was in North Carolina almost 15 years ago. That procedure was approximately 2000 (cannot remember if it was grafts or follicles, thought it was grafts). The procedure was done with good quality but the density was not what I was hoping for. This procedure was to increase that density.

Options considered:
- FUT vs FUE: Chose FUT for higher density / lower cost and this Trichophytic Closure incision would better camouflage my prior incision
- Comparing certified / recommended practitioners from the US, Mexico, and India. US costs were roughly 3x the cost of the other 2. India was the best pricing at ~$3000 for 3500 grafts (Medispa Hair Transplant Center). Mexico (Neopel Clinic) and quoted me ~2000-2300 grafts / 4000 hairs for $3000. Mexico was the best balance, but the actual number of grafts / hairs provided was less than quoted.

Logistics:
A transfer from San Diego airport and a hotel in Tijuana is included in the price. I was picked up by a wonderful driver and she was able to quickly navigate the border crossing and within 5 minutes we were at the clinic. She also picked me up promptly when the procedure was done and again back through the border crossing (don't forget your passport).

Office Conditions:
Furniture is more visibly worn than what you would encounter in a U.S. office, but it all operates fine and the necessary equipment is there.

Payment:
The price quoted above is a cash price, credit cards cost more because of the fees. There was also a deposit required which can be done by bank direct deposit (addtl small fee) or credit card (higher fee).

Pre-op:
Mine was a late start for 2 reasons. When I first arrived not all the nurses had arrived as yet. Once they had come in there was a cosmetic surgery emergency which shared the facility. But even with this later start the entire procedure was still over at around 3PM which was close to the originally promised time.

Operation:
More details in the doctor / practitioner review. A local anesthesia is provided both on the donor and transplant site areas. A small sedative is also provided (relaxes, does not knock you out). Being tired from the trip, and having been through the procedure before I simply took a nap and slept through most of the procedure. There is no movie / entertainment outside of some background music, but it doesn't last long enough to need that IMO.

My actual number of grafts was 1650 and ~3700 hairs which was less than my original quote from the clinic for the price. I am hoping this is will be enough density for my needs.

Post Op:
I was provided a nice homemade lunch of carne asada (delicious) and was walked through what I needed to do / not do over the next couple of weeks. I also received my medications prior to departing.

Day After:
Pain was not significant, but can be felt. Medications / painkillers are easy to take and help to a degree. The first 2 night sleeps are at an inclined 45 degree angle and I personally cannot get good sleep in that position. If you cannot either be prepared to be tired for the following couple of days. You'll also have to wear a loose surgeons cap for those two days, so be aware of appearance if that is critical.

Following pictures are prior to the procedure, I'll add some post pics in a couple of days when I get a better camera. Hair will be falling out shortly (3-4 days post op) and then coming back in around 3-4 months when I'll take some additional pics.

Here are pics 2 days after surgery. The majority of my scalp is still numb, I am expecting / hoping the sensation to return shortly. Some minor bleeding the first day after surgery but not significant. Am looking forward to not having to sleep at a 45 degree angle tonight.

Numbness on the scalp is still there but I have some sensation returning. Scabs have flaked off, and a minor bit of of hair. Sensitivity on the donor and transplant area is much reduced at this point, sleeping through the night is not an issue.