What procedure did Greg have?
Greg chose FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) at KSL Clinic. He also shared a story many will find familiar: he’d recently shaved his head for charity, and seeing his hairline so clearly accelerated his decision to look into a transplant. It’s a common moment of realization that prompts many men to take action.So, What Actually Is a Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that moves hair follicles from one part of the body (called the donor site) to a bald or thinning part (the recipient site). It’s primarily used to treat male pattern baldness, where the follicles on the top and front of the head are genetically sensitive to a hormone called DHT, which causes them to shrink and stop producing hair gradually. In contrast, the follicles on the back and sides are permanently resistant to this effect. The transplanted follicles keep their genetic resistance, meaning they will continue to grow hair in their new location for a lifetime. It is considered a permanent solution. There are two primary surgical techniques used for Hair restoration:- FUE (what Greg had): This method, which Greg Shepherd opted for, involves extracting individual hair follicles directly from the donor area using a micro-punch tool. These follicles are then implanted into the thinning areas. The main advantage of FUE is that it leaves only tiny, dot-like scars that remain virtually undetectable, even with very short hair. This makes it a popular choice for those concerned about maintaining short hairstyles.
- FUT (strip): Also known as the strip method, FUT involves removing a thin strip of tissue from the donor area, which is then dissected into individual follicular units for implantation. While this technique is highly efficient and can harvest a large number of grafts in one session, it does leave a linear scar. For patients with significant hair loss who do not plan to wear their hair very short, FUT remains a viable and effective option.
Is a Transplant Right for You?
A hair transplant is a significant medical procedure, not a quick fix. Here are the most important factors to consider:- Candidacy: The ideal candidate has realistic expectations, is in good general health, and has sufficient stable donor hair to harvest from. Age and the pattern of future hair loss are also critical factors that a surgeon will evaluate.
- The Process and Timeline: It is crucial to understand that results are not immediate. The transplanted hairs will shed within 2-4 weeks after surgery. New growth typically begins after 3-4 months, with full results becoming apparent after 12-18 months.
- A Surgical Procedure: As with any surgery, there are potential risks such as bleeding, infection, and swelling. Choosing a highly qualified and experienced surgeon like Dr Sajan is the best way to minimize these risks and ensure a successful outcome.
Final word
Greg Shepherd showing his transplant on TV helped normalize a procedure that’s already common. The takeaway is simple: planning and surgical judgment matter more than hype. If you’re considering it, get a clear diagnosis, protect your existing hair, and pick a surgeon who thinks long‑term about your donor hair and hairline design.Considering a hair transplant in Seattle?
At Hair Restoration Seattle, Dr. Sajan offers both FUE and FUT, plus revision work and tailored medical plans to protect native hair. Known for natural, camera‑ready hairlines, his team focuses on surgical detail and long‑term strategy so your result looks good for a long time. Call (206) 209-0988 or click here to book a consultation and get a realistic graft plan, timeline, and cost estimate for your case.