[GoneGirl]

I decided that having my own hair is very important to me, so I've set up my first hair transplant for next week. I'm shooting for 2500 grafts using FUT (strip method). FUE (extraction method) was not recommended in my circumstances. Normally, in a hair transplant, the hairline is established first, then filling in grafts behind it. I'm going to wait until the second transplant procedure to establish a feminine hairline that will cover the scar from FFS on my forehead.

I'll be awake throughout the operation which takes 8 hours to accomplish. Lidocaine is used to numb the scalp. I'll be able to drive myself home afterward. It takes months for the grafts to start growing hair, and I can't do the second transplant until my scalp recovers it's previous elasticity which takes 6 to 10 months. In the mean time, I'll arrange for any FFS I want done.

My doctor is Carlos Puig from Houston, TX who has a solid reputation. He comes up to Chicago regularly to do these transplants. He's also considered one of the best in doing female hair restoration. Placement of the grafts is extremely important in recreating a natural look. I could have gotten by for less money, but I'm not taking any chances when it comes to surgical modification of my body.

This is an interesting video showing an FUT transplant (warning: not for the squeamish).

FUT Hair Transplant (strip method)

Clara