Hair loss can be an anxious time, especially for young individuals experiencing male pattern baldness. This often leads them to search for various options to control or prevent hair loss.
In the past, before the advent of efficient hair transplant methods like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), some used hair plugs to regain a fuller head. It is important to understand the differences between these procedures to make an informed decision about hair restoration.
In this article, we will explore hair plugs vs hair transplant, their similarities and differences and determine which method is now preferred for hair restoration.
A hair plug is a small round piece of scalp that is punched out from the donor area of the head and then inserted or “plugged” into the recipient area of the scalp.
This method was developed in the 1950s and is outdated now due to new techniques which give better results. Hair plugs used to give an unnatural appearance called a ‘toy doll’, with unnatural hairline and noticeable scarring.
This method involves removing a section of scalp, typically from an area with good hair coverage, usually at the back or side of the head. The surgeon may use a punch or micrograft to extract it.
A punch graft hair plug removes a 4mm cylindrical section of scalp from the donor area, containing up to 30 hair follicles. This section is then placed on the recipient site, the bald areas of the head.
See Also: Robotic DHI Hair Transplant
What Is Hair Transplant And How Does It Work?
Hair transplant is a modern technique that involves extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area and transplanting them into bald areas of the scalp.
There are different types of hair transplant such as Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
The results of these hair restoration techniques are more natural and refined, leading to the obsolescence of the hair plug method. FUE gives a seamless look with minimal scarring and higher level of precision.
Here’s a comparison of FUT and FUE in detail:
| Feature | FUT (Strip Method) | FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Strip of hair removed from the back of the head. | Tiny holes made to remove hair follicles. |
| Follicle Removal | Hair follicles removed individually under a microscope. | Hair follicles extracted and inserted into thinning areas. |
| Transplantation | Follicles transplanted into bald areas. | Follicles inserted into areas with hair thinning. |
| Age | Older procedure | Recent and more advanced procedure. |
Also Read About: Afro Hair Transplant
Hair Plugs vs Hair Transplants – A Comparison
While both hair plugs and hair transplant are meant to restore hair density on a bald head, however, both procedures can have significant differences in technique, recovery timelines and results.
| Feature | Hair Plugs | Hair Transplant |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery Duration | Takes weeks or months | Takes a few hours |
| Sessions | Multiple sessions | Fewer sessions |
| Recovery Time | Months to years | Few weeks |
| Invasion | More invasive | Less invasive |
| Natural Look | Distinct clumpy doll-like appearance. | Indistinguishable from the rest of natural hair giving all an even, natural look. |
| Scar Formation | Diffuse scarring | FUE - No scars FUT - Single scar |
| Complications | Scar, Infection, Bleeding, Swelling, Scalp numbness, Ingrown hair | Temporary hair loss, Swelling, Itching, Infection, Scarring, Numbness |
| Success Rate | Less success rate | High success rate |
| Availability | Almost obsolete | Available |
See Also: How To Increase Blood Flow To Scalp?
Hair Plugs vs Hair Transplants – Final Verdict
After carefully assessing the differences between the two methods, it is safe to say that hair transplant is the better option. This is due to the modern technique which is less painful and invasive, offers shorter surgery and recovery times and provides more natural results with no scar formation.
Due to the advent of these new and more successful procedures, hair plugs have become obsolete. Nowadays everyone opts for hair transplants to get better results for their hair loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do hair plugs last?
If the procedure was successful, hair plugs can last a lifetime, making it a permanent solution for your baldness.
Is a hair plug the same as a hair transplant?
No, hair plugs are not the same as hair transplants. While both procedures are meant to treat hair loss, there are multiple differences between them.
Can you tell if someone has hair plugs?
There are certain ways to tell if someone has hair plugs. Hair plugs can give a very artificial Barbie doll-like fake appearance with an unnatural hairline. Moreover, this procedure can give unsightly large scars too.
How painful are hair plugs?
Hair plug technique can be painful but local anesthetics are given to numb the area and make it pain free. However, hair transplant procedures are way less painful compared to hair plugs.
See Also: DHI Hair Transplant
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