Hair transplant
A hair transplant can treat baldness and boost your self-confidence.
Indication
Hormonal hair loss (also known as hereditary hair loss or androgenetic alopecia) is the most common type of hair loss and affects at least 80% of men and 50% of women by the age of 70, with the incidence increasing with age.
Psychological burden
Hair loss can be very uncomfortable, especially for self-esteem in social interactions. Studies suggest that hair loss in men often leads to great emotional strain, anxiety and stress. A third of women with hair loss suffer from symptoms of depression.
Treatment
A hair transplant offers a permanent solution for bald patches where hair normally does not grow back. The hair that is taken from the back and sides of the head for transplantation is genetically programmed differently to the lost hair and is therefore not susceptible to hormonal hair loss.
With the latest FUE technology, we offer a permanent solution for hair loss.
Saphir FUE
Sapphire FUE is an advanced method that offers significant improvements over traditional FUE. The use of sapphire blades allows the creation of fine, V-shaped micro-channels that are more precise than the U-shaped channels made with traditional steel blades. This leads to faster healing times and better aesthetic results. With the sapphire FUE technique, we can transplant up to 120 hair follicles per cm², which ensures dense hair growth and an exceptionally natural hairline.
Aftercare and result
After a hair transplant, the right aftercare is crucial for a lasting successful result. It is important to keep your head elevated during the healing phase to reduce swelling. In the first few weeks, strenuous physical activity and direct sunlight should be avoided in order not to impair the healing process. It is also recommended to treat the scalp gently and not to use aggressive hair care products.
The hair growth phase takes time, with the transplanted hair initially falling out before new, strong hair grows back. Regular follow-up examinations and supportive treatments help to optimise the healing process.
Precise planning, careful execution and consistent aftercare, coupled with the highest hygiene and safety standards, lead to beautiful results after 12 to 18 months, which sustainably improve the quality of life.
We will be happy to discuss whether you are suitable for a hair transplant during a consultation.
Summary
Type of intervention
outpatient, local anaesthesia with sedation
Pain level
mild (after surgery) to strong (injection of local anaesthetic)
Suture removal
none
Scars
see description
Final result
12-18 months
Return to regular activity
1-2 days
Avoid sport
2-4 weeks (depending on the sport)
Cost
from 3 500 CHF
Frequently asked questions about hair loss and hair transplants
How does hormonal hair loss progress?
Hormonal hair loss usually begins in the late teens or early twenties. The process usually develops slowly.
Where does hormonal hair loss begin?
In men, it usually begins with a receding hairline or a thinning tonsure area. Women usually present with diffuse hair loss in the tonsure area, whereby the front hairline is usually left out and the change often only occurs during the menopause, although it can also be earlier.
What are the causes of hair loss?
The most common cause of hair loss is genetic (hormonal). Other causes, such as underlying diseases (certain types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, nutritional disorders, skin diseases and thyroid disorders), nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D and biotin) and the use of certain medications, should be clarified before starting treatment.
Can stress cause hair loss?
Yes, excessive physical or emotional stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, in which many hair follicles enter the resting phase and eventually fall out. Although this type of hair loss is often temporary, prolonged stress can contribute to chronic hair loss.
Can hair loss be prevented?
Although hormonal hair loss cannot be prevented, certain lifestyle changes and treatments can help slow it down. A healthy diet, stress management, avoiding harmful hair treatments and utilising non-surgical treatment options can help keep hair longer.
When should I consider a hair transplant?
You should consider a hair transplant if your hair loss is stabilised and the thinning is permanent, especially in areas where the hair will not grow back. It is important to wait until the hair loss is reasonably predictable, as a transplant performed too early could lead to further procedures being required if the hair loss progresses.
How many grafts are needed?
We do not strive for the highest possible number of grafts (follicular units consisting of 1-4 hairs), because their quantity says nothing about the quality of the result. The true art of an aesthetically and long-term successful hair transplant lies in achieving a maximum natural result with as few grafts as possible.
How many grafts are possible?
Even the fastest teams from Turkey can transplant a maximum of 3.500 to 4.000 grafts per session without taking any significant risks. Large-volume procedures in mass clinics often permanently damage the donor area (“moth-eaten aspect”), leave no reserves for later corrections – if the hair loss progresses in other areas – and frequently lead to unaesthetic results. Time pressure, arbitrary graft selection or implantation, as well as rough handling worsen hair quality and increase graft loss. In addition, the necessary high adrenaline dosage increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmia and necrosis.
Why is strategic planning of a hair transplant so important?
When undergoing a hair transplant, planning an age-appropriate hairline is crucial, as unnaturally deep or too dense lines are noticeable even from a distance. As hair loss can progress in non-transplanted areas, the treatment plan must be individualised, proactive and strategic to avoid irreparable damage. It often makes more sense to perform several smaller procedures over time. We only carry out hair transplants in cases of stabilised hair loss and take care to leave sufficient reserves, especially in younger patients. Think carefully – an unsuccessful transplant can be worse than baldness.
Do I get a discount on my hair transplant?
No. We stand for fair prices and excellent value for money. In Switzerland, it is forbidden by law to entice patients into medical treatment by offering discounts. Such offers are frequently linked to clinic chains, often initiated by non-physicians, while the procedures are carried out under the supervision of doctors without specialised training.
How many hair transplants will I need?
The number of hair transplants required depends on the extent of hair loss, your age, the desired result and the availability of donor hair. While some patients can manage with a single hair transplant, others may require follow-up treatments as hair loss can progress in untreated areas.
Are hair transplants permanent?
Yes, hair transplants are permanent as the hair follicles from the donor area are genetically insensitive to hair loss. However, if hair loss progresses in other areas of the head, additional procedures may be necessary in some cases.
How does a hair transplant work?
During a hair transplant, healthy hair follicles, usually from the back and sides of the head, are transplanted into bald or thinning areas. The most common techniques are FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction). Both methods aim to restore a natural hairline and sufficient hair density.
What is the difference between FUT and FUE?
FUT involves removing a strip of skin from the donor area, leaving a linear scar that is usually covered by hair. FUE involves the removal of individual hair follicles, leaving tiny, inconspicuous scars in the donor area.
How long does it take to see the results of a hair transplant?
Initially, the transplanted hairs may fall out, but new hair growth will gradually replace them. It can take 3 to 6 months for the transplanted hair to start growing and up to 12 to 18 months to see full results. After about 6 months, a visibly improved hair density is usually achieved with around 50% coverage.
Are there non-surgical options for hair loss?
Yes, there are non-surgical treatments, including:
- Minoxidil: A topical solution that stimulates hair growth.
- Finasteride: A drug that blocks the hormone responsible for hair loss in men.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: In this treatment, growth factors are introduced into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
- Exosome therapy: Exosomes, small vesicles produced by stem cells, are introduced into the scalp to promote hair growth. They work by
- Growth factors, vitamins and proteins directly to the hair follicles.
- LED therapy: Low-energy red and near-infrared light is used to stimulate hair follicles, promote hair growth and improve hair density.
These treatments can help to slow down hair loss or improve the situation, but do not offer a solution for bald patches like a hair transplant.
What are the risks of a hair transplant?
Hair transplants are generally considered safe procedures, but certain risks can occur. These include infections, scarring – particularly with the FUT method – poor growth quality of the transplanted grafts or an unnatural hairline if the procedure is not carried out professionally. Shock loss, a temporary loss of hair in the treated or surrounding areas, can also occur. Careful planning and execution in a renowned private practice can significantly reduce these risks.
What should be considered before and after a hair transplant?
Of course, we will provide you with detailed instructions that you should follow before and after a hair transplant. You can find further general information on pre- and post-operative care in the ‘For patients – resources’ section.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Swelling and scabs may occur after a hair transplant, which usually subside within 10 days. Careful adherence to aftercare instructions is crucial. These include avoiding strenuous activity, refraining from scratching the scalp and using special shampoos to aid the healing process.
When can I start exercising after a hair transplant?
To optimise the healing process after a hair transplant, sporting activities should be avoided for 2 to 4 weeks.
What does a hair transplant cost?
The average cost of a hair transplant is around CHF 5’000-. Small hair transplants are possible from 3 500 CHF.
Are the costs of a hair transplant covered by health insurance?
Hair transplants are considered cosmetic procedures and are therefore not covered by health insurance.