Although some doctors prefer to remove all grafts before transplantation, Dr. Kiely advises against it. This procedure is done under local anesthesia, with relatively minor discomfort. It may take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. Dr. Kiely personally performs the entire procedure aided by two highly trained assistants. Patients return to the office the following morning for post-operative care, and 1 week later for a check up.
Most people are able to return to work after their post-operative care.
Three days after surgery, tiny scabs will form in the donor and receptor areas of the scalp. During the two weeks following surgery, you will begin to notice the disappearance of the scabs along with the newly transplanted hair. This normal and temporary reaction, caused by the shock of the transplant process, forces the grafts into their resting phase. Although each patient's hair grows at a different rate, new hair will usually begin to grow after approximately 90 days. This waiting period can be difficult and patients who become anxious often call during this time to question the results.