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Hair transplantation is an increasingly popular treatment for baldness in both men and women. Thanks to advances in aesthetic medicine, the procedure has become safer, more effective and much less invasive than it was just a dozen years ago. One of the most common questions patients ask before the procedure is: “Does a hair transplant hurt?” and “What kind of anesthesia during hair transplantation?” Answering these questions is crucial to understanding the entire process and preparing mentally for the procedure.
Type of anesthesia used during hair transplantation
The hair transplant procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. Unlike general anesthesia, which puts the patient completely to sleep, local anesthesia works only on the scalp – the area from which the hair follicles are taken and the area into which they are transplanted.
The most commonly used anesthetic is lidocaine or a combination of lidocaine and epinephrine. Epinephrine further constricts blood vessels, which reduces bleeding during the procedure and prolongs the effect of the anesthetic. The anesthetic injections are administered using thin needles directly under the scalp. This may cause mild discomfort, but only lasts a few minutes. For very sensitive patients, some clinics also offer so-called needle-free anesthesia – using special pressurized devices (such as injectors).
Is the anesthesia safe?
Local anesthesia is considered very safe. Performing the procedure does not require hospitalization or supervision by an anesthesiologist, as is the case with general anesthesia. Lidocaine, which is the most commonly used agent, has a well-established profile of action and has been used in medicine for many years.
However, as with any medical procedure, there is a risk of an allergic reaction – although it is very low. Therefore, each patient should inform the doctor before the procedure about any previous drug reactions, chronic diseases or medications they are taking. If necessary, the doctor may perform a skin test to see if the patient is allergic to anesthetics.
It is also important to have the hair transplant performed at a reputable clinic, under the care of an experienced medical team. This gives confidence that the procedure will be carried out according to the highest safety standards.
Is the hair transplant procedure painful?
Thanks to local anesthesia, the hair transplant procedure itself is virtually painless. The patient may feel slight discomfort only during the administration of the anesthesia – a sensation similar to minor pricks. After its administration, the scalp becomes completely insensitive to pain, which allows the entire procedure, which can last from several to even several hours, depending on the number of grafts to be transplanted, to be carried out comfortably.
During the procedure, the patient remains conscious, can listen to music, watch a movie, and in some clinics even talk to the staff. For longer procedures, short restroom or meal breaks are possible.
What about pain after the procedure?
After the effect of the anesthesia wears off (usually after a few hours), the patient may experience minor pain, burning or a feeling of tension on the scalp. These are natural discomforts that usually subside within 24-48 hours. Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, can be used as needed.
It is also important to follow post-operative instructions – avoiding touching and scratching the graft area, sleeping with the head elevated and avoiding exercise for several days. All of this contributes to faster healing and minimizes the risk of pain or discomfort.
Anesthesia during hair transplantation. Summary
The anesthesia used during hair transplantation is mainly local anesthesia, which is safe and effectively eliminates pain throughout the procedure. Although the moment of its administration may be slightly unpleasant, the hair transplant procedure itself is not associated with pain. For many patients, this is even a surprise – they expected much more discomfort.
The key to a successful and safe procedure is to choose the right specialist and a clinic that provides modern anesthesia methods and an individual approach to each patient. This can make hair transplantation not only effective, but also comfortable.
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See the effect of a hair transplant at Kierach Medical Clinic:
