Sapphire Fue Hair Transplant

What is Sapphire Fue Hair Transplant?

Sapphire FUE Hair Transplant is a modern evolution of the traditional FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant method. The distinction lies in the tools used for the procedure. In sapphire FUE, blades made from a precious stone called sapphire are used to create tiny incisions in the receiving area, whereas traditional FUE uses steel blades.

Sapphire blades are known for their sharpness, which allows for more precise and cleaner incisions. These thinner incisions can potentially accelerate healing and reduce scalp trauma.

How Is The Sapphire Hair Transplant Performed?

Preparation: Initially, the patient’s scalp is thoroughly cleaned. The donor area, usually the back of the head, is then shaved to facilitate the extraction of the hair follicles.

Local anesthesia: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the donor and recipient areas, ensuring that the patient does not feel any discomfort during the procedure.

Hair follicle extraction: With the help of a micromotor, individual hair follicles or follicular units are extracted from the donor area. This process is similar to traditional FUE.

Preparation of recipient sites: This is where the Sapphire FUE method differs significantly. Using sapphire blades, tiny incisions are made in the recipient area where the extracted follicles will be implanted. The sharpness and precision of the sapphire blades allow more precise slots that can perfectly accommodate the grafts.

Implantation of the hair follicles: The extracted hair follicles are then carefully implanted in the incisions previously made in the recipient area.

Postoperative care: After the procedure is completed, the patient receives instructions for postoperative care. This usually includes advice on washing, potential swelling and any medications that should be taken to relieve pain or prevent infection.

What are the advantages of Sapphire Hair Transplantation?

Sapphire FUE hair transplant offers several advantages that distinguish it from traditional FUE methods:

Precision and Accuracy: The sharpness of the sapphire blades allows for more precise and smaller incisions, resulting in a reduction in tissue damage.

Faster Healing: Due to the minimized trauma to the scalp, patients can feel a faster healing of the recipient area.

Scar Reduction: Thin incisions made using sapphire blades can lead to less visible scars compared to other methods.

Higher graft survival rate: The precise incisions can ensure a tighter fit of the hair follicles, which can potentially lead to a higher graft survival rate.

Reduced risk of complications: Accurate and cleaner cuts can reduce the likelihood of complications such as infection.

Natural-looking Results: The possibility of making smaller and more precise slits can allow a denser and more natural-looking hair transplant.

Who is a suitable candidate for Sapphire FUE?

Most people who are candidates for traditional FUE hair transplantation can also opt for Sapphire FUE. Suitable candidates include:

Adequate supply of donors: People who have a sufficient amount of healthy hair follicles in the donor area, usually on the back or sides of the head.

Baldness: Men and women suffering from androgenic alopecia or baldness.

Stable Hair loss: People whose hair loss pattern has stabilized, reducing the chances of hair transplantation in areas that may become bald in the future.

Good Scalp health: A healthy scalp without conditions such as psoriasis or chronic dermatitis, which could affect the success of the transplant.

Realistic Expectations: It is essential that individuals have a clear understanding of what the procedure can accomplish. Although hair transplants can restore the density and coverage of the hair, they cannot reproduce the total density of a naturally full head of hair.

Age Considerations: Although age is not a strict determinant, younger patients (in their early twenties or even younger) may be advised to wait, as their hair loss pattern may not be completely established.

Absence of Medical Conditions: Patients without underlying medical conditions that could hinder healing or increase the risk of complications during the procedure.

Stages of Sapphire FUE Hair Transplant

Sapphire FUE Hair transplant follows a series of steps to ensure the successful transplantation of hair follicles. Here is an overview of these steps:

Consultation and planning: Before the intervention, the patient undergoes a thorough consultation. This step consists of evaluating the patient’s hair loss pattern, determining the number of grafts needed and planning the design of the recipient area.

Preparation of the donor area: The back or sides of the head, where the hair is genetically resistant to baldness, are chosen as the donor area. This region is then shaved and cleaned to facilitate the extraction process.

Local anesthesia: To ensure comfort during the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the donor and recipient areas.

Hair follicle extraction: With the help of specialized equipment, individual hair follicles or follicular units are meticulously extracted from the donor area.

Preparation of the recipient area: With the help of sapphire blades, tiny incisions are made in the predetermined areas of the scalp. These slots are designed to accommodate the extracted hair follicles.

Implantation: The extracted hair follicles are carefully implanted in the incisions made by the sapphire blades.

Postoperative care: Once the graft is completed, the scalp is cleaned and the patient receives postoperative instructions, guaranteeing correct healing and survival of the graft.

Collection of Hair Roots in Sapphire FUE Technique

The extraction or collection of the hair roots in the Sapphire FUE technique is a critical phase of the transplantation process. This implies:

Donor Area Selection: The surgeon identifies the donor area, which is usually the back or sides of the head. These areas are less sensitive to hormonal changes, which makes their hair follicles ideal for transplantation.

Using the micromotor: A micromotor with a specially designed punch is used to encircle and extract individual hair follicles from the donor region.

Depth Control: The depth of the punch is carefully controlled to ensure that the hair follicle is not damaged during extraction.

Extraction of follicular units: The hair follicles, usually consisting of 1 to 4 hairs, are extracted individually, preserving the integrity of the follicular unit.

Collection and storage: Once extracted, the hair follicles are temporarily stored in a solution that keeps them viable. This is crucial to ensure the health of the grafts until their implantation.

Quality Control: Throughout the extraction process, the quality of the extracted follicles is constantly monitored. Only the best quality grafts are selected for transplantation.

Opening channels in Sapphire FUE technique

The channel opening step in the Sapphire FUE technique is essential because it determines the direction, angle and density of the newly transplanted hair. This phase involves:

Use of sapphire blades: What distinguishes this technique from traditional FUE is the use of sapphire blades. These blades are known for their durability and sharpness.

Precision of incisions: The sharpness of the sapphire blades allows precise and tiny incisions. This is essential for the natural appearance and direction of the transplanted hair.

Determining the angle and depth: A qualified surgeon will make incisions at the right angle and depth, ensuring that the hair grows in a natural direction and the follicles are firmly anchored.

Minimized Trauma: The precision of the sapphire blade reduces scalp trauma, which can promote faster healing and scar reduction.

Customized blade Size: Depending on the size of the transplanted follicular unit, the blade size can be adjusted, ensuring an optimal fit for each transplant.

Hair root transplantation according to the Sapphire FUE technique

Once the channels are open, the transplantation of the hair roots (or grafts) is the next crucial step:

Selection of hair roots: Before implantation, the healthiest and most robust grafts are selected for transplantation.

Directional implantation: The grafts are implanted following the direction of the incisions made during the opening phase of the canal. This guarantees a natural hair growth pattern.

Consideration of density: A qualified surgeon will place the grafts in such a way as to obtain an optimal density, ensuring a more complete appearance without compromising the survival of the graft.

Immediate care: After implantation, the area is usually moistened to keep the grafts hydrated and the scalp in optimal condition.

Why is Sapphire Hair Transplant important?

The introduction of sapphire blades in hair transplantation has been considered a significant step forward for several reasons:

Improved Precision: Sapphire blades offer a level of precision that is difficult to achieve with traditional metal blades.

Reduced Scalp Trauma: The sharpness and precision of the sapphire blades means less scalp trauma, promoting faster healing and potentially better graft survival rates.

Natural-looking Results: The ability to make precise incisions ensures that the hair grows in the right direction and the right angle, resulting in a more natural look.

Less scarring: Precise incisions mean potentially less visible scars, making it easier for patients to wear their hair short if they wish.

Innovation in hair transplantation: The adoption of sapphire blades means the continuous evolution and improvement of hair transplantation techniques, focusing on patient safety, comfort and optimal results.

What Should Be Done Before Sapphire Hair Transplant?

Before undergoing the Sapphire FUE hair transplant procedure, patients must follow several preparatory steps:

Consultation: Schedule an in-depth consultation with a hair restoration specialist to assess the extent of the hair loss, discuss expectations and design the transplant plan.

Avoid blood thinning medications: Refrain from taking medications such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs at least a week before surgery, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Limit alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and nicotine can hinder the healing process. It is advisable to limit their consumption or stop completely for a few days before the procedure.

Hair Preparation: According to the surgeon’s recommendations, patients may be asked to wash their hair thoroughly the day before surgery and avoid using hair products.

Inform the surgeon: If you have allergies or if you are taking medications, supplements or herbal remedies, inform your surgeon beforehand.

Stay hydrated and eat healthy: This can help with recovery.

What Should I Do After A Sapphire Hair Transplant?

Postoperative care is essential to ensure the success of the procedure:

Follow the surgeon’s instructions: Compliance with the postoperative guidelines provided by the surgeon is essential for optimal healing and the survival of the graft.

Sleep upright: For the first few nights, try to sleep in a semi-upright position to reduce swelling.

Avoid strenuous activities: Refrain from heavy exercises and activities that can cause sweating for at least a week.

Limit sun exposure: Direct sunlight can be harmful to newly transplanted grafts. Wear a hat or protective clothing if you go out in the sun.

Avoid touching the scalp: Resist the urge to scratch or touch the graft area to avoid dislodging the grafts.

Wash thoroughly: Your surgeon will tell you when and how to wash your hair after the transplant. Usually, gentle washing can begin after a few days.

When Will My Hair Grow After A Sapphire Hair Transplant?

Hair growth after a FUE sapphire transplant follows a general chronology:

Initial hair loss (2-4 weeks): Newly transplanted hair may fall out – this is a normal part of the process, and it makes way for new hair growth.

Dormant phase (1-3 months): The transplanted hair follicles enter a resting phase. Little or no growth is observed during this period.

Growth phase (3-8 months): New hair begins to grow from the transplanted follicles. By the 6th month, about 50% of the hair has usually grown.

Maturation phase (8-12 months): The hair becomes thicker and more robust. By the end of the first year, most patients see about 80-90% of the final result.

Complete results (12-18 months): At this stage, the transplanted hair should have reached its full thickness and length, blending perfectly with the surrounding natural hair.

What to do in the first 1 to 3 months After Sapphire FUE hair transplant?

The first few months after a Sapphire FUE hair transplant are crucial to ensure the success of the procedure. Here’s what patients should pay attention to during this period:

Follow the postoperative instructions: Always follow the specific postoperative instructions provided by the clinic or the surgeon. This will include guidelines on cleansing, moisturizing and possibly the application of some topical solutions.

Avoid physical stress: Refrain from lifting heavy objects and intense exercises that can cause sweating. Excessive sweating can irritate the grafts.

Sun Protection: Protect the scalp from direct sunlight, which can damage the newly transplanted grafts. Outdoors, wear a soft hat or use an umbrella.

Gentle Hair care: Be very gentle when washing or touching the graft area. The grafts are still anchoring and can be easily dislodged.

Expect hair loss: It is not uncommon for transplanted hair to fall out during this period, often called “shock loss”.”This is a normal phase, and the hair will grow back.

Avoid swimming: Stay away from swimming pools and saunas to avoid exposing the grafts to chemicals and excessive humidity.

Monitor for infections: Although rare, infections can occur. If you notice unusual swelling, redness, or discharge, contact your surgeon.

What to do in the First 6 months After Sapphire FUE Hair transplant?

As you move forward in the recovery process, you will begin to notice more significant changes:

Observe hair growth: In the third or fourth month, you should start to see the growth of new hair. This growth may be uneven at first, but this is completely normal.

Regular visits to the clinic: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. These allow the surgeon to track progress and address any concerns you may have.

Maintain a healthy diet: Proper nutrition can promote hair growth. Consider a diet rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. Omega-3 fatty acids, biotin and iron-rich foods can be particularly beneficial for hair health.

Limit hair treatments: Refrain from coloring, bleaching or chemically treating new hair unless your surgeon says it is safe to do so.

Hairstyle: You can return to regular hairstyle routines, but continue to be gentle. Avoid pulling or pulling on the new hair.

Continue sun protection: Although the grafts are stronger now, it is still advisable to protect the scalp from prolonged exposure to the sun.

Stay patient: Remember that complete results can take up to a year or more. Do not be discouraged if the growth seems slow or sparse to begin with. The density and coverage of the hair will improve over time.

What To Do 1 Year After Sapphire FUE Hair Transplant?

One year after the operation is an important milestone in the Sapphire FUE hair transplant journey. By that time, the majority of the transplanted hairs would have grown. However, there are still some things to keep in mind:

Evaluate the results: Take the time to compare your current hair with preoperative photos. You should notice a significant improvement in density and coverage.

Annual Check-up: Make an appointment with your surgeon or clinic to evaluate progress and discuss any concerns or other treatment options.

Hair Care Routine: With your newly grown hair, you may want to develop a hair care routine that nourishes and maintains the health of your hair. Consider using mild shampoos, conditioners and avoid excessive heat styling.

Consider additional treatment: Depending on the results and your satisfaction, you may consider additional sessions or treatments to increase density or treat other areas of hair loss.

Protect yourself from sun damage: Even after a year, it is recommended to protect your scalp from excessive sun exposure, which can damage hair and skin.

Maintain a balanced diet: A nutritious diet promotes healthy hair. Continue to consume foods that are beneficial for hair growth.

Avoid tight hairstyles: Even if your transplanted hair is now sturdy, constantly pulling your hair tightly (for example, ponytails or braids) can cause tension on the follicles.

Sapphire Hair Transplant Price 2023

Although it is ideal to provide an exact figure, the price of Sapphire FUE hair transplant in 2023 may vary depending on several factors:

Clinic location: Hair transplant costs can vary greatly depending on the country and even the city where the clinic is located. For example, the prices in places like Turkey, which is famous for medical tourism in hair transplantation, could be lower than in Western European countries or the United States.

Surgeon’s Expertise: A more experienced and reputable surgeon may charge higher fees than someone less established in the field.

Scope of the transplant: The price is often correlated with the number of transplants you need. Larger transplant areas that require more transplants will usually cost more.

Clinic amenities and services: High-end clinics with state-of-the-art technology and luxurious facilities may charge more than smaller, more basic clinics.

Additional costs: Don’t forget to take into account other expenses, such as consultation fees, postoperative care products, or even travel and accommodation costs if you are considering a transplant abroad.