Scalp Extension

Hair transplantation and scalp extension

Modern hair restoration: sometimes a combination of 2 surgical techniques is necessary for a beautiful, natural looking result.

• Microsurgical hair transplantation to redistribute one's own hair: for frontal hairline and temples.
• Scalp extension: for the balding crown and back of the head.

At the Wellness Kliniek  the scalp extension method is applied to the rear 2/3 of the bald scalp for the best end result. The frontal hairline is filled using the microsurgical hair transplantation method.
 

Available donor hair is used on smaller areas at the very front and the temples. The rear 2/3 of the back of the head is filled using the scalp extension method (Frechet Method).

Scalp extension for the crown and back of the head

Micro-grafting is the best technique for restoration of the frontal 1/3 of the scalp. Scalp extension gives the best results for the balding crown and back of the head. Until recently, redistribution of one's own hair was the only transplantation method. Yet this technique is limited.

It is impossible to achieve the necessary thickness for extensive baldness with only the maximal 2.000 hairs. After a micro-grafting procedure is performed on a very bald head, the hair will still be noticeably thin. Several transplant procedures are necessary to achieve a natural result.

The scalp extension method gives a better, more natural result and fuller hair on the crown and back of the head.

Scalp extension: the procedure

• With the use of an internal elastic stretching system the plastic surgeon gradually stretches the hairline, without it becoming noticeable externally.
• The first surgical phase involves an elastic stretching system (extender), being placed invisibly under the scalp. If necessary, any excess skin will be removed at the same time.
• After 1 month you will come back for the second phase. The plastic surgeon removes the stretched bald skin. The stretched hairy scalp will then fill the gap.
• If necessary the surgeon inserts a new extender during this second phase, for further treatment.
• 1 month after the second phase you will have to come back to the Wellness Kliniek. The hairy skin is lifted onto the bald area. and provides a more natural head of hair.
• Transplantation of micro-grafts, to fill up the front hair line and temples can usually be performed at the same time as the scalp extension. This means that the complete procedure can be accomplished in 3 phases.

Scalp extension: the anaesthetic

Scalp extension is performed under intravenous sedation. Contrary to traditional narcosis, you are not connected to a respirator. You will be asleep and breathe for yourself, without feeling any pain at all. When waking up several hours after the surgery, you feel fine, and experience none of the side effects of a general anaesthetic.

Scalp extension: recovery

The extender is temporary implanted under the skin. The implant is not visible. The skin is sutured in a fine line and a crust may form in the first few days. Sometimes the forehead is a little swollen, and this can last a few days. Most people return to work the second day after surgery. Social and professional disruption is minimal.