Q&A
Dermatologist
What is SmartGraft?
SmartGraft is a great option for both men and women searching for a permanent solution to hair loss. Using the SmartGraft device, we gently extract individual hair grafts from the back and sides of a patient’s scalp. We then implant these grafts into the thinning areas to allow regrowth of thick, healthy, natural hair – with minimal appreciable scarring, no need to shave your whole hair, and minimal pain and down time.
How does it work?
SmartGraft uses FUE (follicular unit extraction) technology to restore hair to areas of thinning. The SmartGraft FUE device works on a microscopic level, extracting one to four hair follicles at a time from a region of the scalp that has healthy and “bald resistant” hair (usually the back and sides of the head). We then implant these micro hair grafts into the targeted regions, producing the most natural, healthy results.
While your scalp is anesthetized, we use the SmartGraft device to gently remove the grafts from the donor area. These are sorted, counted and stored in a temperature-controlled and hydrated environment prior to implantation, which improves their ability to regrow for better results.
We then create tiny openings in the hair loss areas for the grafts to be implanted. This part of the procedure is very important as the angle, density and placement of each graft will determine how natural looking the results will be.
The full procedure usually takes around eight hours and is usually completed within a day.
What kind of recovery is required?
We’ll give patients complete instructions on what to expect following the procedure and how to care for the newly transplanted hair. Most patients can return to work the next day and resume full activity within a week.
How soon will a patient see results?
Visible changes happen quickly, with noticeable hair growth typically starting within three months and full growth within a year.
What are the benefits of using SmartGraft over other hair loss treatments?
There are many! SmartGraft creates a completely healthy, natural look since we use the patient’s own hair to fill in areas of thinning. It’s also minimally invasive with little scarring since it doesn’t require large strips of hair to be removed and restored like traditional hair restoration surgeries. This also leads to quick healing and a fast return to normal activities. Recovery is short and patients are typically washing their hair within a few days. The procedure itself typically lasts around eight hours and is completed in a single, in-office visit.
Is SmartGraft available for both men and women?
Yes. SmartGraft is a viable option for both men and women looking to restore their own real hair. SmartGraft is also safe to use on eyebrows, making it an ideal solution for women with thinning brows.
About The Expert
Dr. Ashish Arshanapalli
United Dermatology Associates
Dr. Arshanapalli is a board-certified dermatologist and a member of the first-ever class of board-certified Mohs surgeons. He enjoys all aspects of dermatology with a special focus on skin cancer and reconstruction. He also has a deep interest in hair loss and believes that with the proper treatments, hair restoration can greatly improve people’s self-esteem and quality of life. Dr. Arshanapalli graduated at the top of his class at the Indiana University School of Medicine, then conducted his residency in Dermatology at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago. He completed his training with a fellowship program in Mohs micrographic surgery and complex reconstruction at the University of Wisconsin.
