Hair Transplant Glossary – Most Used Terms & Meanings

1. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)

A modern hair transplant technique where hair follicles are extracted using a Choi Implanter Pen and directly implanted into the scalp without creating incisions beforehand.

2. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

A technique where individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area and implanted in the recipient area. It leaves minimal scarring and offers a natural look.

3. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)

Also known as the strip method, this procedure removes a strip of skin from the donor area, extracts follicular units, and implants them in the recipient area.

4. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy

A treatment where a patient’s own platelet-rich plasma is injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and enhance transplant results.

5. Plasma Therapy

A general term referring to PRP therapy, which uses blood plasma to strengthen hair follicles and improve hair growth.

6. Donor Area

The part of the scalp where hair follicles are taken for transplantation, typically the back or sides of the head.

7. Recipient Area

The area where hair follicles are implanted, usually in the hairline, temples, or crown.

8. Hair Graft

A unit of transplanted hair containing one to four hair follicles.

9. Shock Loss

Temporary hair shedding after a transplant due to the trauma of the procedure. It is a normal part of the healing process.

10. Hairline Design

The process of creating a natural-looking hairline based on the patient’s age, face shape, and hair density.

11. Density

Refers to how many hair follicles are implanted per square centimeter for a fuller look.

12. Graft Survival Rate

The percentage of transplanted hair grafts that successfully grow in the recipient area, typically 90% or higher.

13. Anagen Phase

The growth phase of the hair cycle, where transplanted hairs start to grow.

14. Local Anesthesia

Pain control used during hair transplantation to numb the scalp and make the procedure painless.

15. Post-Operative Care

Instructions given after the transplant to ensure proper healing, including avoiding sun exposure and following washing guidelines.

16. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

A non-surgical procedure where tiny pigments are injected into the scalp to create the illusion of fuller hair.

17. Beard & Eyebrow Transplant

Hair transplants performed on the beard or eyebrows to restore thickness and shape.

18. Norwood Scale

A classification system used to measure male pattern baldness from stage 1 to stage 7.

19. Growth Factors

Proteins that stimulate cell regeneration and hair growth, often used in PRP therapy.

20. Minoxidil & Finasteride

Popular medications used to slow hair loss and promote regrowth. Minoxidil is applied topically, while Finasteride is taken orally.