Hair transplant procedures are typically performed in a single day, beginning in the morning and completed in the afternoon. Depending on the size and type of procedure, hair transplantation generally takes approximately four to six hours.
The day is carefully structured into distinct phases, including pre-operative preparation, the procedure itself (graft harvesting and graft placement), and discharge.
Patients are typically scheduled to arrive at the clinic at 9:30 a.m.
While many medical procedures begin very early in the morning, we intentionally start later to provide a more relaxed experience. Patients are encouraged to wake up without rushing, have a proper breakfast, and arrive calm and prepared for the day.
Patients may drive themselves to the clinic in the morning.
A generalized review of the procedure, including what to expect throughout the day
Expected outcomes, normal recovery, and potential considerations are reviewed, followed by signing of the consent form
Administration of pre-procedure medications: typically an oral antibiotic and a mild relaxing medication (similar to Valium)
Most patients remain fully aware and comfortable, simply feeling more relaxed.
Pre-operative photos are taken for medical documentation.
Dr. Armani then reviews the surgical approach in detail with the patient. When appropriate or indicated, the hairline design is discussed thoroughly:
Recommendations are made based on facial structure, age, and long-term considerations
Patient input is encouraged and carefully considered
Once finalized, additional photos are taken to document the agreed-upon design.
Patients are shown to their own private patient lounge
This area may be used by accompanying guests and by the patient during scheduled breaks
Patients change into a medical gown
The patient is weighed and vital signs are recorded
The surgical team is introduced, and final preparations are made.
If any trimming or cutting of hair is required for the procedure, it is performed at this time.
Patient safety and comfort are the highest priorities throughout the procedure day.
Patients are continuously monitored during the procedure, including pulse and oxygenation levels. In addition, vital signs are checked at multiple points throughout the day, including prior to scheduled breaks and again before discharge.
These measures are in place to ensure a safe, controlled, and comfortable experience from start to finish.
The first phase of the procedure is the graft harvesting phase.
Patients are positioned comfortably face down in a massage-style position, allowing optimal access to the donor area at the back of the scalp.
To ensure comfort:
The smallest possible needles are used for local anesthesia
A vibratory device is used during injections to further minimize discomfort
Most patients report that the numbing process is very well tolerated and significantly more comfortable than expected. Many patients feel comfortable enough to rest, doze off, or take a short nap during this phase. Patients may also listen to their preferred music or audio for added comfort.
Graft harvesting is performed using refined techniques tailored to the individual, whether through FUE or FUT, and is guided by Dr. Armani’s trademarked PURE (Precise Ultra-Refined Extraction) method, emphasizing minimal depth and preservation of surrounding tissue to support optimal graft quality and healing.
In FUT procedures, particular attention is given to donor closure. Dr. Armani’s ultra-fine suturing technique is utilized to support optimal healing and minimize tension, typically requiring additional time compared to faster closure methods such as staples or less refined suture techniques.
Before proceeding to the next phase of the procedure, the patient returns to their private patient lounge for a short break.
Use of the restroom
Light refreshments and snacks
Time to stretch and relax
An opportunity to check messages or communicate with family or loved ones
At this stage, patients are no longer in the face-down position used during harvesting. Instead, they are placed in a comfortable, reclined lounge position, similar to sitting back in a chair at home while watching television.
The recipient area—such as the hairline, top, or crown—is carefully prepared and numbed.
Local anesthesia is administered using the smallest possible needles, along with a vibratory device to enhance comfort. This approach allows the area to be numbed in a controlled and well-tolerated way.
Once the area is fully anesthetized, Dr. Armani carefully creates the recipient sites through precise, small incisions that determine the final direction, angle, and distribution of the transplanted hair. This is one of the most critical steps in the procedure, as it directly influences the naturalness and overall aesthetic outcome.
This process reflects the principles of ARTS™ (Artistically Redesigned Transplant Surgery), where each detail is customized to the individual patient.
If needed, patients may take another brief break at this stage to use the restroom, stretch, have a light snack, or check in with family or loved ones before proceeding.
Once the recipient sites are created, the patient returns to a comfortable, reclined lounge position, where grafts are placed with precision by the surgical team. Patients may watch television (including sports or streaming services such as Netflix), listen to music, or use their phone. By this stage, many patients are comfortable enough to doze off or take a short nap.
The depth, angle, direction, and overall design of the recipient sites have already been carefully determined by Dr. Armani during the site creation phase. The role of the surgical team at this stage is to meticulously place each follicular unit into these pre-created sites.
The transplanted follicles are gently sprayed with HypoThermosol®
The donor area is dressed with a light wrap and topical antibiotic
A surgical cap is provided so patients may leave the clinic comfortably and discreetly
Patients are provided with a take-home kit containing instructions and essential items for the first night following the procedure. These instructions are reviewed in detail and outline exactly what to expect and how to care for the scalp until follow-up communication.
Although patients may drive themselves to the clinic in the morning, driving after the procedure is not permitted. This is primarily for safety and liability reasons, as patients have had a long day and may feel tired following the procedure. Patients should plan to use a ride service (such as Uber or a taxi) or arrange for a family member or friend to drive them home.
Dr. Armani typically follows up with patients the following morning, often around 9:00 a.m. This conversation generally lasts approximately 20 minutes and is thorough, ensuring that patients clearly understand their post-operative instructions and what to expect moving forward.
Every effort is made to ensure that each patient is safe, comfortable, and accommodated in every appropriate way, with the goal of providing patients with the absolute best possible overall experience and result.
Enjoy renewed confidence with life-changing, perfect results you will be proud of.
With nearly two decades of exclusive experience and a global reputation in hair transplantation, Dr. Armani approaches every procedure with meticulous planning and individualized design.
To begin your personalized hair restoration journey, call our office or submit the Request a Consultation form to schedule your private, thorough one-on-one consultation with Dr. Armani.
There are many options for hair restoration. But few compare to the expert artistry that Dr. Armani’s practice offers. His approach is for the discerning patient. Get in touch to learn more.
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