5 Steps to Increased Confidence
  The Decision
  Preparing for Surgery
  The Concept
  The Donor Area
  The Recipient Area


  Introduction
  Post-Op Redness
  Pimples
  Shedding of Grafts
  Removing the Staples or Sutures

Once the surgeon has assessed the number of grafts required for your surgery, the length of the donor strip can now be determined. After determining the length, the surgeon will then shave the necessary area on the back of your head and tape back any hairs surrounding that area so that a clear view can be established for removal of the strip.

The surgeon will then numb the donor area by administering a local anesthesia. These shots are absolutely painless. Once the area is completely numb, the donor strip is now ready to be removed.

Surgeons use a variety of techniques to remove the donor strip. Some remove the strip in sections, while others remove the strip in one piece. Ask your prospective surgeon about his or her technique, why they use that technique and most importantly, ask to see former patients to properly assess the results of their work.

Once the strip has been excised from the donor area, this area must obviously be closed. This, combined with the applied technique of removing the actual donor strip, is a crucial element in dictating the appearance of any scarring that will remain.

Some surgeons choose to use traditional sutures to close the donor area, while others choose surgical staples. Ask your prospective surgeon about their preferred methods and why they utilize such methods. Once again, request a meeting with an actual patient to properly evaluate the surgeon's skills.