Your Guide to Hair Transplants
This page explains what modern hair transplants are, how they work, the differences between FUE and FUT, the role of PRP and medical therapy, what recovery really looks like, and how to think about long-term planning and density. Our aim at Sacramento Hair Transplant is to give you a clear, practical framework so you can make confident choices—no hype, just helpful answers.
You’ll find candidacy criteria, graft planning basics, benefits and limitations, and realistic growth timelines. If you are consider a hair transplant in Sacramento, contact us today and request a consultation.
Types of Hair Transplants & Supportive Therapies
Modern surgical hair restoration relocates healthy follicles from the permanent donor zone (sides/back of scalp) to thinning areas. The two primary methods—FUE and FUT—are both excellent when matched to the right goals. PRP and medical therapies are supportive tools that help preserve and optimize surrounding hair.
FUE (Follicular Unit Excision)
How it works: Individual follicular units are removed with tiny circular punches—often ~0.8–1.0 mm—distributed across the donor zone. Those grafts are placed into micro-sites in the recipient area that match natural angle and direction.
Why people choose FUE: No linear incision; short hairstyles are typically easier because any dot scarring is diffused. FUE can be ideal for small to medium sessions and, with planning, larger sessions as well.
Considerations: Even harvesting is crucial for donor appearance. Session duration can be longer; meticulous handling and hydration protect graft health.
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
How it works: A narrow donor strip is removed and closed meticulously; under magnification, the strip is dissected into natural follicular units. Grafts are then placed into micro-sites like with FUE.
Why people choose FUT: Efficient when larger graft numbers are needed in one sitting. If you keep hair long enough to cover the line, it can be an excellent, donor-conserving approach.
Considerations: A fine linear scar is typical; expert closure technique matters. Great when long hair or higher graft counts are priorities.
PRP & Medical Support
PRP: Platelet-rich plasma is processed from your blood and applied to the scalp to support native hair and the overall scalp environment. PRP is not a transplant; it’s a supportive therapy that can complement surgery and maintenance plans.
Medical therapy: Thoughtful use of evidence-based medications can help protect existing hair. We review pros, cons, and timing so you can decide what fits your goals and health profile.
Bottom line: Surgery restores hair where it’s thinning; supportive therapies help you keep what you’ve got.
FUE vs. FUT: Which Is Right for You?
There isn’t a single “best” method for everyone. The smart choice weighs hairstyle, donor supply, session size, future planning, and comfort with the recovery process. Here’s a quick comparison to frame the conversation:
| Factor | FUE | FUT |
|---|---|---|
| Scarring Pattern | Micro dots, dispersed | Fine linear line with meticulous closure |
| Hairstyle Flexibility | Often preferred for short styles | Great if hair remains long enough to cover |
| Session Size | Excellent for small to medium; scalable with planning | Efficient for larger graft counts in one sitting |
| Donor Management | Requires even harvesting across donor zone | Conserves density in surrounding donor areas |
| Comfort & Recovery | Soreness in diffuse dots; careful aftercare helps | Tightness along the closure; meticulous suture technique helps |
We’ll review these pros and cons with you, then recommend the approach that protects your donor supply and serves your goals now—and later.
Benefits of Hair Transplants
Permanent Follicles Where You Need Them
Transplanted follicles are moved from the permanent zone, where they are genetically more resistant to typical pattern loss. Once healed, they grow like your own hair—because they are your own hair.
Natural Hairline Design
With singles at the leading edge and careful angulation, a well-planned transplant creates a soft frame for the face. The goal is realism in person, on camera, and in every lighting situation.
Density Where It Matters Most
Most people benefit from prioritizing the hairline and mid-scalp first, blending toward the crown. Strategic use of multi-hair grafts behind the front provides coverage and efficiency.
Confidence & Styling Freedom
As density improves, many clients feel more comfortable with shorter hairstyles and less reliance on hats, fibers, or specific angles for photos.
Are You a Candidate?
Donor density, hair caliber, and contrast with skin tone shape what’s possible. We also consider pattern stability, your age, family history, and medical background. A thoughtful plan sets priorities and leaves options for the future.
Graft math & density: Singles create a believable transition; multis build coverage. We aim for cosmetic density where you’ll notice it daily, then discuss if/when a crown session makes sense.
Expectations: Hair transplants improve coverage and framing; they don’t turn thin hair into teenage density across the entire scalp. The most satisfied clients choose realistic goals matched to their donor supply.
Recovery & Growth Timeline
Days 1–3
Tiny scabs form at recipient sites; a light dressing may cover donor areas. We review sleep positions, washing, hats, and travel. Mild soreness and swelling are common and manageable with guidance.
Days 4–14
Scabs shed as instructed; redness begins to settle. Many people return to desk work within a few days; we tailor gym and activity timelines to your situation.
Weeks 3–8
Shedding of the transplanted hairs is normal—the follicles remain and enter a growth phase. Patience here pays off.
Months 3–6
Early sprouts start to appear; photos begin to show change. Density builds gradually.
Months 6–12+
Cosmetic results take shape with noticeable improvements by months five to seven; full maturation usually occurs around the one-year mark.
Smart Donor Management
Your donor hair is finite. An expert plan harvests evenly, avoids over-depleting any zone, and maps future options (touch-ups, crown work) so you keep choices open. We’ll also discuss how supportive therapies can protect native hair around your transplant over time.
Design That Ages Well
A straight, low hairline can look unnatural later. We prefer proportional designs that fit your facial thirds and age gracefully. The best compliments are subtle: “You look great”—not “Did you get a transplant?”
What to Bring to Your Consult
- Reference photos (hairlines you like and those you don’t)
- Medical history and current medications
- Work/travel schedule and hobbies (helmets, swimming, contact sports)
- Questions—big or small. We’ll answer them all.
Read our story and philosophy on the About page.
Ready to talk timing and next steps? Contact us to book a private consultation.
Have Questions?
Send us a message today and our will follow up to confirm details and answer any of your questions. If you prefer a call, or for immediate answers, reach us at (916) 619 4247.
Want to Read More?
For additional background on surgical hair restoration, see this patient education resource from the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS): Hair Transplant Basics — ISHRS.
Hair Transplant FAQs
Is PRP a hair transplant?
No. PRP is a supportive therapy that may help the scalp environment and native hair. Transplants physically relocate follicles to thinning areas.
How do I choose between FUE and FUT?
We match method to hairstyle, donor profile, graft goals, and future planning. Both can deliver excellent results when properly executed.
When will I see growth?
Early sprouts around month 3; visible change by months 5–7; maturation near 12 months. Timelines vary by individual and area treated.
Will my result look natural?
Yes, with good design, singles at the hairline, proper angulation, and careful graft handling. Natural in person is the standard we aim for.