Robotic Hair Transplant: A Revolution in Hair Restoration
Hair transplant and restoration are popular cosmetic procedures, especially among men. Istanbul, Turkey, known for medical tourism, offers affordable options due to advanced techniques. Robotic hair transplantation, particularly the Automatic Follicular Implantation (IFA) method, is gaining prominence. This approach employs robots to efficiently extract and transplant hair follicles, making the process faster and more cost-effective. The initial consultation with a hair clinic doctor determines the best technique for each case.
Robotic hair transplant operates through two types of robots that utilize advanced digital technologies to select and harvest grafts from the donor area, typically measuring 0.8 to 1 mm. This automation ensures the grafts’ integrity, with over 97% chance of regrowth. However, some experts note that robotic systems might damage neighboring grafts, unlike manual transplants. The donor and recipient areas are shaved and marked before the procedure, which is made painless through microinjections of anesthesia. These non-invasive systems cut procedure time in half, without damaging the skin and leaving scars.
Most clinics employing advanced systems utilize robots for graft extraction and then manual re-implantation using the Follicular Unit Extract (FUE) or Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) techniques. The procedure is often combined with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment to enhance hair growth. Neograft’s SAFER robot and ARTAS Restoration Robotics are two significant players in this field.
Neograft’s SAFER robot uses a compressed air punch to extract follicles, which are then sorted and manually implanted. On the other hand, ARTAS is a more comprehensive system with digital cameras and automated punches. It selects the best follicles using algorithms, enhancing precision. A later version of ARTAS can also re-implant follicles, making the process more automated and efficient. However, some experienced surgeons still prefer manual techniques due to investment costs and uncertainties about fully automated implantation’s long-term results.
Robotic extraction offers various advantages. Algorithms aid in selecting suitable candidates for automated extraction based on hair type and growth angle. Robotic extraction reduces procedure time by about 50%, increasing patient comfort. It also reduces costs and trauma while ensuring a faster graft regrowth rate.
However, robotic extraction is not suitable for specific hair types and is limited to certain areas. The choice between robotic and manual techniques depends on factors like hair type, area to be covered, and the surgeon’s recommendation. Many practitioners combine techniques, utilizing robotic extraction and manual implantation. IFA is best for early baldness, alopecia, reconstructing eyebrows, and concealing scars.
Different techniques include FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), and IFA. FUE can be entirely manual or only during implantation. FUT involves extracting a strip of scalp, becoming less popular due to its painful and scarring nature. DHI, performed with a Choi punch pen, is precise but requires experience and is more costly. IFA, or robotic hair transplant, combines automation and manual implantation, showing promise for the future.
The cost of a robotic hair transplant varies by location:
- Turkey: €1500 to €3500
- UK: £3000 to £8000
- Netherlands: €3000 to €8000
- Switzerland: €4000 to €9000
- United States: $6000 to $12,000
These prices include robotic extraction, FUE implantation of around 2500 grafts, and PRP treatment for partial or medium hair transplants.
