Where to Go From Here?
Thursday, July 31, 2025 | By: Medilaser, Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center
Have you been noticing more hair loss than you'd like? You're not alone—and the good news is, you're not without options. Thanks to modern advancements in hair restoration, there are effective treatments that can help you regain both your hair and your confidence. In this post, we’ll explore the two most popular methods: NeoGraft® (Follicular Unit Extraction) and the Strip Method (Follicular Unit Transplantation). We’ll break down the differences, benefits, and what you can expect during recovery—so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.
Understanding Hair Loss
Hair loss can stem from various factors including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices. Understanding the root cause of your hair loss can help you make informed decisions regarding treatment. In this section, we will take a deeper look into these factors:
1. Genetics: Male and female pattern baldness is largely hereditary. If your parents experienced hair loss, you might too.
2. Hormones: Conditions like alopecia areata and imbalances can cause thinning hair. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or certain medications can impact hair health as well.
3. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disease, iron deficiency anemia, and autoimmune disorders can also lead to hair loss.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Stress, poor nutrition, and hairstyling habits can adversely affect your hair.
Understanding these factors can help you prepare more effectively for the transition to hair restoration. At Medilaser Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center in Frisco, TX, Dr. Mauricio Giraldo offers advanced solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the two leading techniques for regaining lost hair—NeoGraft® and the Strip Method—and how Dr. Giraldo can help you achieve natural-looking, lasting results.
NeoGraft® is a modern, minimally invasive hair restoration method utilizing Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). The key benefits of this technique include:
- Minimal Downtime: Patients can often return to their regular activities quite quickly.
- Less Visible Scarring: Since NeoGraft® doesn’t require the removal of a strip of scalp, it leaves minimal to no visible scars,
- Ideal for Short Hairstyles: With no long scars to hide, patients with shorter hairstyles can benefit significantly from this technique.
How NeoGraft® Works
During the NeoGraft® procedure, individual hair follicles are removed from a donor area (typically the back of the scalp) and transplanted to the thinning or balding areas. The automated device makes the extraction process quicker and more efficient, often resulting in a higher graft survival rate compared to traditional methods.
Post-Procedure Expectations
Recovery after a NeoGraft® procedure at MediLaser is typically smooth:
Healing: Mild redness and swelling are common but fade within a few days. Avoid swimming, heavy exercise, or close contact until your doctor clears you.
Hair Growth: Transplanted hair may shed in the first month—this is normal. New growth starts around 3–6 months, with full results in up to a year.
The Strip Method (FUT)
The Strip Method involves a surgical procedure where a strip of scalp is removed from the donor area, and hair follicles are harvested from that strip. This method has advantages and disadvantages:
- Longer Recovery Time: While effective, FUT generally requires longer healing time.
- Visible Scarring: Since a strip of scalp is removed, this can leave a prominent scar, particularly concerning for those who wear short hairstyles.
- Higher Graft Yield: Because more hair is harvested in one procedure, this technique can sometimes allow for more grafts to be collected than FUE.
How the Strip Method Works
During the FUT process, a strip of skin containing hair follicles is excised from the donor area, which is then dissected into individual follicular units for implantation. This method is well-suited for patients looking for a larger number of grafts in a single session.
Post-Procedure Expectations
Recovery takes longer with the Strip Method:
- Initial Healing: Patients must expect soreness and swelling around the incision site, which can last a week or more.
- Hair Growth Phases: Similar to the NeoGraft® procedure, the initial shedding of transplanted hair occurs, followed by hair regrowth usually visible after several months, with substantial results seen within a year.
Comparing NeoGraft® vs. The Strip Method
Now that we’ve explored both techniques, let’s compare them head-to-head:
- Technique: NeoGraft® uses FUE while FUT relies on excising a strip of scalp.
- Downtime: NeoGraft® offers less recovery time compared to FUT. Patients can return to regular activities faster with NeoGraft®.
- Scarring: Patients seeking a scar-free appearance will prefer NeoGraft®, while those who don’t mind potential scarring may opt for the Strip Method.
- Discretion: Those with shorter hairstyles are better served by NeoGraft®.
Final Thoughts on Hair RestorationChoosing a hair restoration method can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options is key. Dr. Giraldo at MediLaser can help you find the right approach based on your goals, lifestyle, and concerns.
Now that you’re equipped with insight into both NeoGraft® and the Strip Method, you’re one step closer to making the right choice for your hair restoration journey. Whether you’re looking for minimal downtime, concerned about scarring, or aiming for fuller volume, there’s a personalized solution waiting for you.
Hair restoration isn’t just about appearance—it’s about restoring confidence and feeling like yourself again. Take the first step today by booking a consultation with Dr. Mauricio Giraldo at Medilaser Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center in Frisco, TX. Your transformation starts here.