Hair grafts are any piece of hair-bearing tissues that are transplanted onto the scalp. Actually, these are so-called patches of hair that can be plucked from all over the body. Usually, the doctor-in-charge harvests these from the occipital scalp, a highly sustainable for hair. Their overall size and shape can vary in nature, and doctors can usually transplant them with the use of technology and procedures performed.

The doctors usually create hair grafts by transferring tissue from the donor zone to the region that requires hair growth. The doctors remove a small amount of hair-bearing tissue and transplant it to the said region. They either remove these tissue in a fleshy strip all out once or one at a time. 

In addition to that, It is very important that hair grafts survive the transplanting process from the donor zone onto the recipient scalp. Unfortunately, there are multiple factors that can affect the entire process, such as the following:

• Dehydration
• Temperature
• Oxygen supply
• Proper selection

Avoiding these factors during the transplant procedure increases the survival of the hair grafts—which, in turn, increases the overall success of the operation.

Hair Graft Follicular Units

Meanwhile, a follicular unit is a naturally occurring bundle of hair that can contain anywhere from one to four hair follicles. One hair graft contains multiple follicular units. This set of bundles, called hair grafts, can have a total of five to eight hair follicles. This then creates more significant results. However, do not mistake these hair grafts with the old-style hair plugs. Actually, the doctors harvest these hair grafts from a healthy hair-bearing region to a thin recipient zone. 

Hair Graft Calculation 

Technical terms aside, let us now discuss the hair graft calculation. As mentioned, there are two techniques to choose from. Once the doctor makes the decision on what method to use, the doctor will then proceed to perform the procedure.  After careful examination, the doctor will start calculating the hair grafts required.

In certain cases of extreme hair loss, you will need several thousand hair grafts. This high-level need exceeds the capability of strip harvesting. A high number of hair grafts also reduces the number of surgeons capable of the procedure. Only an advanced FUE doctor will have the aptitude to perform such a meticulous surgery. Likewise, the number of hair grafts will affect the cost. Besides, more donor hairs transplanted results in a costlier procedure.

Hair graft calculations and estimates aim to get perspective on all other aspects of hair transplant operations. Using the Norwood Scale can help provide a rough estimate. 

What Is the Norwood Scale?

Specialists use the Norwood Scale classification system to measure the extent of male pattern baldness. By the way, hair loss among men typically involves one of several common patterns. There are easy-to-reference images that indicate different stages of balding provided by the Norwood Scale.

Additionally, specialists use this measurement while discussing the male pattern baldness. Therefore, they have a reference point to diagnose the extent of baldness. Also, using the scale also enables the doctors to discuss treatment options and measure the effectiveness of treatment

However, calculating a more exact number of hair grafts takes the following distinctive factors into account:

• Goals
• Size and shape of the scalp
• Diameter of hair shafts
• Hair colour
• Hair texture

In conclusion, the most accurate way to find out the number of hair grafts is to consult a hair restoration specialist.