1. What is a hair transplant and how does it work?

A hair transplant (also called hair restoration or grafting) is a surgical procedure that relocates live, healthy hair follicles from a donor area (often the back or sides of the scalp) into areas affected by hair thinning or baldness. The transplanted follicles continue to grow like natural hair, making the outcome permanent. Essentially, it’s a redistribution of your own hair-producing follicles rather than creating new hair.

The process involves three main steps:

• Extraction of follicular units (FUs) from the donor zone

• Storage & graft preparation in a nourishing solution

• Implantation of these grafts into prepared recipient sites, with precise orientation, depth, and direction to mimic natural hair growth

Because the donor follicles are from your own body, the risk of rejection is negligible. Once successfully implanted, they retain the genetic resilience of their original location.

---

 

2. Who is a suitable candidate for hair transplant with Dr. Ruz?

Not everyone with hair loss is automatically eligible. Ideal candidates typically:

• Have a stable donor region with healthy hair follicles

• Present clear patterns of hair thinning (such as androgenetic alopecia)

• Maintain realistic expectations regarding outcome and density

• Are in good general health with no contraindications (e.g. uncontrolled medical conditions)

• Have been properly evaluated by diagnostic tests (blood work, hormone evaluation, scalp health)

Candidates with generalized hair loss (alopecia universalis), certain autoimmune scalp conditions, or insufficient donor hair may not be suitable or might require a hybrid treatment plan combining medical therapy plus transplantation.

---

 

3. What techniques does Dr. Ruz use (FUE, DHI, hybrid)?

Dr. Ruz employs advanced, modern methods to maximize survival and natural look:

• FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): Each follicle is gently extracted with a micro-punch tool, leaving minimal scarring and allowing faster donor recovery

• DHI (Direct Hair Implantation): Grafts are implanted with specialized implanter pens directly into recipient sites without prior channels, improving control of angle, density, and reducing handling time

• Hybrid / Combination Approaches: In many cases, Dr. Ruz uses a blend — e.g., FUE for extraction combined with DHI for placement, and advanced growth-augmented holding solutions to boost graft viability

By tailoring the method to each client’s hair structure, donor strength, scalp quality, and aesthetics, Dr. Ruz aims for natural density, seamless hairlines, and lasting results.

---

 

4. Does the hair transplant last permanently?

Yes — properly transplanted follicles are generally permanent because they inherit the properties from the donor zone, including resistance to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the hormone linked to pattern hair loss. As long as the donor area remains healthy, the transplanted hair should last long-term.

However, it’s important to note:

• Existing, non-transplanted hair may continue to thin over time, which may require additional treatments

• Transplanted hair may thin slightly with age, but often remains denser than the surrounding native hair

• Maintenance treatments (medications, PRP, nutritional support) can help prolong density and general scalp health

---

 

5. What can I expect during the procedure (duration, anesthesia)?

• The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring a nearly painless experience.

• The total time depends on the graft count and method — typically 4 to 8 hours for a full-session transplant.

• Patients remain awake and comfortable, often listening to music or resting during the process.

Dr. Ruz ensures patient comfort and safety throughout, pausing as needed and monitoring vital signs.

---

 

6. What happens right after surgery (immediate recovery)?

• Mild swelling, redness, or discomfort in donor and recipient areas is expected

• Tiny scabs form around each graft and typically fall off within 7–14 days

• You may need to sleep with your head elevated for a few nights to reduce swelling

• Use of gentle shampoos, topical care, and mild medications is standard

• Avoid strenuous activities, direct sun exposure, scratching, or touching the grafts

Dr. Ruz provides a post-op care kit and clear guidelines to optimize healing and graft survival.

---

 

7. What is “shock loss” and is it normal?

Yes, it’s normal. Shock loss refers to the temporary shedding of transplanted and sometimes pre-existing hairs shortly after the procedure. It’s part of the biological adjustment. It usually happens within the first 2–4 weeks. The follicles remain intact beneath the skin and new growth typically begins around 3 to 4 months post-procedure. Visible, stable results often appear by months 6 to 9, with full maturation around 12–18 months.

---

 

8. When will I see visible results?

• Months 1–3: Shedding phase; minimal visible growth

• Months 3–6: New hairs begin to emerge

• Months 6–9: Hair density improves; style begins to form

• Months 12–18: Final cosmetic result — full, natural-looking density and texture

Each patient has a unique timeline, but Dr. Ruz will monitor progress via follow-ups and adjust treatment as needed.

---

 

9. Are there any risks or side effects?

Hair transplant is generally safe when performed by an experienced surgeon. Possible temporary side effects include:

• Mild swelling or bruising

• Redness or irritation

• Minor numbness or tingling in the donor or recipient areas

• Infection (rare, prevented with sterile technique and post-op care)

• Poor graft survival (rare, related to handling, blood supply, or patient factors)

• Unsatisfactory density if expectations are unrealistic

Dr. Ruz emphasizes full patient education, sterile protocols, and careful aftercare to minimize risk and ensure optimal outcomes.

---

 

10. How much does a hair transplant cost with Dr. Ruz?

Cost depends on factors like:

• Number of grafts required

• Technique used (FUE, DHI, hybrid)

• Clinic overhead, medical staff, and technology

• Diagnostic evaluation and post-op care

Dr. Ruz’s clinic provides transparent pricing after a consultation, custom quotes, and international patient packages to include consultations, surgery, follow-ups, and support.

---

 

11. Can international patients (from overseas) undergo treatment?

Absolutely. Dr. Ruz’s clinic is experienced in handling overseas clients. The process typically includes:

1. Pre-travel consultation (via video/phone)

2. Medical & photographic assessment

3. Travel and accommodation planning

4. Surgery day and post-op recovery

5. Remote follow-ups, PRP sessions, and medical support after returning

Many overseas patients find that Malaysia’s medical standards, combined with cost-effectiveness, make it an ideal destination for high-quality hair restoration.

---

 

12. How do I prepare before a hair transplant?

Before surgery, Dr. Ruz requests:

• Avoidance of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)

• Avoid alcohol and smoking 1–2 weeks prior

• Avoid heavy, spicy food just before surgery

• Clean, washed hair; no harsh chemical treatments

• Medical history review, labs, hormone tests

• Rest well and avoid stress

Proper preparation enhances surgical safety and recovery.

---

 

13. What aftercare is required post-transplant?

Aftercare is crucial for graft survival and includes:

• Gentle hair washing using prescribed shampoos

• Avoid scratching or rubbing grafts

• No strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks

• Avoid sun exposure or direct heat

• Use of medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories) as prescribed

• Optional PRP sessions, nutritional support, and scalp therapy

Dr. Ruz’s team provides a complete post-op care plan and guides you through each stage.

---

 

14. Can women also get a hair transplant?

Yes — women with pattern hair loss or thinning can be excellent candidates. However, the evaluation requires special attention because female hair loss often has additional underlying causes (hormonal imbalance, iron deficiency, thyroid issues). Dr. Ruz performs full diagnostics, hormone panels, and custom plans to ensure safe and effective outcomes.

---

 

15. Will I have a visible scar?

With modern methods like FUE and DHI, scarring is minimal and often undetectable:

• FUE leaves tiny dot scars that are easily concealed

• DHI reduces linear scarring entirely since no strip is removed

• Proper donor management prevents overharvesting and preserves scalp aesthetics

The visual impact of scars is low when your procedure is done carefully by an expert.

---

 

16. What if I lose more hair in the future?

Future hair loss in non-transplanted areas can occur — it’s natural. To address this:

• Maintenance therapies (topical, oral meds, PRP) help slow loss

• Additional mini-transplants can be scheduled later if needed

• Dr. Ruz’s follow-up program extends up to 18 months to monitor and intervene

Because hair transplantation doesn’t stop new hair loss, combining medical therapy and surveillance is key to long-term success.

---

 

17. Can I shave or style my hair normally after transplant?

Yes — but with timing:

• Avoid shaving or strong styling for the first 7–10 days

• After healing, gentle trimming and low-pressure styling are permitted

• After ~1 month, normal haircuts, shampoos, and styling can resume

• Heat-based styling (flat irons, curlers) should wait until after 4–6 weeks

Always follow Dr. Ruz’s instructions to protect grafts during early healing.

---

 

18. Can I exercise, swim, or do sports after surgery?

• For first 2 weeks, avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, swimming, and sweating

• After 2–4 weeks, light exercise (walking, light cardio) may resume

• Avoid direct sun, saltwater pools, and high-impact activities until cleared

• Always protect the scalp and avoid bumping the grafts

Dr. Ruz’s team will guide when specific activities are safe again.

---

 

19. Can hair transplantation be done elsewhere (e.g. beard, eyebrows, scars)?

Yes. Hair transplant is not limited to the scalp — it can also treat:

• Beard and mustache restoration

• Eyebrow hair loss

• Scar camouflage (from burns, trauma, or surgeries)

• Hairline reconstruction

Dr. Ruz evaluates donor hair suitability and tailors graft placement accordingly to achieve natural, region‑appropriate results.

---

 

20. What should I ask during my consultation with Dr. Ruz?

To ensure you’re well-informed, consider asking:

• What is your experience and success rate in hair transplantation?

• Can I see before/after photos of similar cases (local & international)?

• What technique will you use and why?

• How many grafts will I need, and what density can be achieved?

• What is your post-op care protocol?

• Are there risks or complications I should know?

• How long is follow-up, and will I get support from overseas?

• What is the total cost and what is included?

Honest, transparent answers reflect a trustworthy clinic.