Hair Transplantation With a State-Of-The-Art “Megasession” of Micro and Minigrafts

Hair transplants offer a long-term solution for men experiencing thinning or balding, restoring natural-looking fullness and a confident appearance. In Houston, Dr. Alfonso Barrera specializes in advanced hair transplant techniques, using methods like micrografts and minigrafts to create seamless results with minimal scarring. 

With decades of experience and double board certification in plastic surgery and head and neck surgery, Dr. Barrera has developed a process that is safe and minimally invasive, allowing for quicker recovery and authentic results that look and feel natural.

How Does Male Pattern Baldness Start?

Male pattern baldness normally begins for most men at the age of 30. In some cases, some men may begin to notice balding patterns as early as their late teens or early 20s, according to the American Hair Loss Association.

While many people think there could be underlying causes that lead to progressive baldness, oftentimes, hair loss in men and a thinning crown are a result of genetics and hormones. As men age, hair loss is caused by a genetic sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone.

However, if you have an underlying health condition such as lupus, a thyroid disorder, or a hormonal imbalance that leads to hair loss, you may still be a candidate for hair transplant treatment.

Why Get a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant can be a great option for anyone looking to restore a fuller head of hair. Today’s techniques create realistic hairlines and solid coverage with minimal scarring. Dr. Barrera shares, “With the advances in hair transplantation over the past two decades, truly natural results without detectable scarring can be consistently accomplished.”

For those who want a lasting solution to hair loss, a transplant offers results that look great and grow with you over time – boosting confidence without the hassle of ongoing treatments.

Modern Techniques of Hair Transplantation Surgery

Today’s hair transplantation methods use a high volume of small, precise grafts, categorized as micrografts (one to two hairs per unit) and minigrafts (three to four hairs per unit). Each session can include between one thousand and twenty-eight hundred grafts, depending on individual needs.

Dr. Barrera typically places micrografts at the front to create a natural hairline, then uses a blend of micrografts and minigrafts to fill in areas behind it. He carefully removes a thin strip of scalp from the donor area and sutures it with precision to minimize scarring. When closed gently and without tension, the area heals well with minimal visibility. Dr. Barrera removes the sutures in about ten days.

Dr. Barrera Shows Before and After Photos of Patients

Hair Harvest Methods

There are two common methods for harvesting donor hair:

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

In this method, the donor area is shaved, and hair follicles are removed individually using a tiny punch tool. While effective, FUE requires a broader area for harvesting and may involve incomplete follicles, which are less likely to grow as consistently. It also takes longer for the shaved area to blend with the surrounding hair.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

Also known as the horizontal donor ellipse, this technique involves removing a narrow strip of scalp from the donor area. The area is carefully sutured, leaving minimal, well-concealed scarring. 

Dr. Barrera prefers FUT because it harvests the most durable hair roots from the safest donor area. Each graft is meticulously dissected under magnification to keep the follicles intact, maximizing successful hair growth.

Dr. Barrera’s choice of FUT allows for focused harvesting from the most secure donor area, with less disruption to your existing hair. The result is a natural look that heals quickly and blends seamlessly.

What to Expect During Hair Transplantation

When you arrive for your hair transplant, Dr. Barrera and his team will make sure you’re comfortable and informed every step of the way. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Preparation and Anesthesia: Dr. Barrera will review the procedure with you and answer any last-minute questions. You’ll receive IV sedation and local anesthesia to keep you comfortable without needing full anesthesia. Once you’re relaxed, the procedure begins.
2. Graft Harvesting: Depending on your treatment plan, Dr. Barrera will either take a small strip of scalp (FUT) or individual follicles (FUE) from the donor area. The donor site is then closed carefully to minimize scarring.
3. Graft Placement: Each graft is prepared under magnification to ensure it’s ready for placement. Dr. Barrera will then place the grafts into the areas needing coverage, focusing on natural placement at the hairline and adding density where needed.
4. Finishing Up: After grafts are placed, Dr. Barrera will review your post-op instructions and address any questions. You’ll be monitored briefly and then can head home, usually within an hour.
5. Immediate Recovery: Most patients go home the same day with minimal discomfort. Swelling or tenderness may occur but typically subsides in a few days. A follow-up will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.

With Dr. Barrera’s patient-focused approach, you’ll know what to expect and feel supported throughout your hair restoration journey.

When Will I See Results From My Hair Transplant?

After your hair transplant, new hair begins growing within the first 10 days. However, it will enter a temporary rest phase, so it’s common for much of it to shed shortly afterward, including the hair that was there originally. 

You should be prepared for your hair to look a little worse during this time. We want to make sure you’re aware of this probability and comfortable with it – there’s no need to worry if things take a little time. Around three to four months later, the new growth process starts again, and you’ll begin to notice steady improvements.

By the fifth or sixth month, you’ll see significant progress as your hair follows its natural growth cycle, just as it would in the donor area. Dr. Barrera finds this gradual change beneficial, as it blends in naturally and allows your hair to look better over time.

Post-Transplant Care and Maintenance

To support healing after your hair transplant, follow these basic guidelines:

First 48 Hours

• Don’t touch or rub the treated area.
• Sleep with your head elevated.
• Take any prescribed medications as directed.

First Week

• Wash your hair gently as instructed.
• Avoid heavy exercise.

Weeks Two-Four

• Expect some shedding — this is a normal part of the process.
• Resume light activity but avoid intense workouts.

After One Month

• Handle hair carefully, avoid harsh products, and protect your scalp from the sun.
• Be patient; new growth starts in about three months, with full results by 12-18 months.

Dr. Barrera’s team will be here to help you through each stage.

Is There a Cure for Male Pattern Baldness?

While there is no cure for male pattern baldness, there are many FDA-approved treatments that can help slow down the speed at which your hair loss progresses. 

From over-the-counter medications to massage therapy, scalp treatments, and even wigs, men experiencing hair loss have multiple options when it comes to addressing their baldness. If you want to invest in a more permanent solution, however, a hair transplant could be the most beneficial option for treating your hair loss.

Is a Hair Transplant to Treat Male Pattern Baldness Expensive?

On average, hair transplant treatments can cost around $10,000, and because it is often a cosmetic procedure, it is rarely covered by healthcare insurance companies. We recommend patients speak with their healthcare providers to determine their eligibility for using insurance for their hair transplant treatment. 

Dr. Barrera also prioritizes patient satisfaction to help you achieve your hair restoration goals. He is happy to work with you to formulate a payment plan that fits your budget.

What Are the Contraindications of a Hair Transplant?

Although a hair transplant is an overall simple procedure, there are some health conditions that may disqualify you from being a candidate for treatment, including:

• Total alopecia
• Heart disease
• Kidney or liver failure
• Diabetes
• Scalp disease
• Total hair loss due to chemotherapy
• Lupus not in remission

To determine your candidacy for a hair transplant, schedule your consultation with Dr. Barrera today.

Who Is At Risk For Developing Male Pattern Baldness?

Male Pattern Baldness is a genetic condition often transmitted through the mother’s side of the family, but it can also come through the father’s side of the family. 

Hair Transplant Before And After

View Our Male Pattern Baldness Gallery →

History of Micrograft and Minigraft Treatments

In 1991, Dr. Uebel in Brazil pioneered the use of micrografts (one to two hairs per graft) and minigrafts (three to four hairs per graft) on a large scale, transplanting up to 1,200 grafts to cover extensive hair loss areas, such as the entire top of the head in cases of male pattern baldness (MPB).

Since then, Dr. Barrera has refined Dr. Uebel’s technique, utilizing finer microblades and increasing the number of grafts transplanted per session – now achieving up to 2,500 and even 2,800 grafts in a single session.

Do You Need to Be Under Anesthesia to Have Hair Transplant Surgery?

Dr. Barrera performs all aesthetic surgery procedures, including hair transplantation surgery, at his Accredited Ambulatory Surgical Facility (AAAASF) under IV sedation and local anesthesia. There’s no need for general anesthesia, as you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. This provides added safety and faster recovery.

How Long Until I Can Go Home After My Surgery?

After undergoing a hair transplant in Houston, most patients are able to go home within the first hour of recovery from the one-to-two-hour procedure with minimal discomfort.

For further information or questions, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Barrera or his staff.

Will My Hair Transplant Results Be Permanent? 

Hair transplant results are long-lasting because the transplanted hair comes from areas that are naturally resistant to hair loss. Typically, you can expect these results to last for many years. However, as hair loss often progresses over time, areas that were not initially treated may experience thinning in the future.

Most patients see lasting results for several years before considering a follow-up transplant, if necessary. Dr. Barrera, for example, has undergone the procedure three times over the years. Why three times? Because, as we age, we may lose more hair and need additional grafts as long as there is sufficient donor hair.

Are There Any Non-Surgical Alternatives to Hair Transplants for Male Pattern Baldness?

Yes, there are non-surgical options for managing male pattern baldness:

1. Medications: Minoxidil (a topical treatment) and Finasteride (an oral medication) can help slow hair loss and, in some cases, encourage new growth.
2. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Laser devices like combs or caps stimulate hair follicles and may improve hair thickness.
3. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP): This technique uses tiny tattoos to mimic the look of fuller hair, providing the appearance of density.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing stress and following a nutrient-rich diet can support hair health and slow hair thinning.

These methods can be effective for early hair loss or as a supplement to other treatments.

What Are the Risks of Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it does carry some risks. Common potential side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, or discomfort in the treated area, which typically subside within a few days. In some cases, minor scarring or uneven hair growth may occur, though skilled surgeons can often minimize these issues.

Other, less common risks may include infection, numbness in the scalp, or poor graft survival, which could affect the final results. Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Barrera can significantly reduce these risks, ensuring careful technique and proper post-operative care for optimal results.

Why Should I Choose Dr. Barrera For My Hair Loss Treatment?

Dr. Alfonso Barrera is a widely recognized expert in hair transplantation, frequently invited as a visiting professor and guest speaker at national and international conferences on hair restoration and aesthetic surgery. With numerous published articles in leading medical journals, multiple textbook chapters, and even a book on hair transplantation, Dr. Barrera is known for his expertise and contributions to the field.

Beyond traditional hair restoration, Dr. Barrera has advanced the use of follicular grafts to restore natural-looking hair for patients with facial scarring, burns, or birth defects. His skill in crafting realistic hairlines, sideburns, eyebrows, and beards means that each patient receives results that enhance their appearance and confidence.

Schedule a Consultation for a Hair Transplant in Houston, TX

If you’re interested in learning more about hair loss treatment and male pattern baldness in Houston, TX, please contact us at 713-468-5200 to schedule a consultation with our practice.