Question 1

What is a hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

A hair transplant moves healthy follicles from a donor area (usually the back or sides of the scalp) to thinning or bald areas. Modern transplantation uses follicular units to create a natural hairline and balanced density.

Question 2

Is it permanent?

Accepted Answer

Transplanted follicles are taken from areas more resistant to genetic loss and are generally long-lasting. Existing native hair may continue to thin, so long-term planning and medical treatment may be advised.

Question 3

When will I see results?

Accepted Answer

Transplanted hairs commonly shed within 2–8 weeks — this is normal. Most patients see visible results between 6 and 9 months; full maturation can take 12–18 months.

Question 4

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. Patients should not feel significant pain. Mild tenderness, tightness or swelling may occur for a few days afterwards.

Question 5

How many grafts will I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the area, hairline design, donor capacity, hair thickness and future loss risk. The correct number is determined after a personal consultation.

Question 6

Will there be scars?

Accepted Answer

FUE leaves tiny dot-like marks; FUT leaves a linear donor scar. Visibility depends on technique, healing and hairstyle.

Question 7

When can I return to work?

Accepted Answer

Desk work is usually possible within a few days. Heavy physical activity, sweating and tight hats are typically avoided for 1–2 weeks.

Question 8

Can women have hair transplants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but the cause of loss must be evaluated first. Hormonal, iron-deficiency, thyroid or stress-related cases may require medical treatment before surgery.

Question 9

Can I have a second transplant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when donor capacity allows. A second session may be planned to add density, cover newly thinning areas or revise a previous result.

Question 10

What is the difference between FUE and DHI?

Accepted Answer

Both harvest follicular units individually with FUE. In FUE the surgeon opens channels first and places the grafts with forceps; in DHI each graft is loaded into a holder implanter pen and placed in one movement. DHI can suit dense packing and detailed hairline work, while FUE is efficient for larger areas. The right method depends on your case, not on marketing.

Question 11

What is Sapphire FUE?

Accepted Answer

Sapphire FUE uses blades made of medical-grade sapphire to open the recipient channels instead of standard steel. The blades are finer and smoother, which can allow slightly tighter channel placement and less tissue trauma. Graft survival still depends mainly on handling, angulation and aftercare.

Question 12

Do I have to shave my head?

Accepted Answer

For a standard FUE session the donor area is shaved so follicles can be extracted safely, and the recipient area is usually shaved too. In selected cases — small areas, long hair worn down, or a female pattern case — an unshaven or partially shaven approach is possible. We confirm what your case requires at the consultation.

Question 13

How long does the procedure take?

Accepted Answer

A typical session lasts six to eight hours including planning, extraction, graft preparation and implantation. It is done in a single day under local anaesthesia, with breaks for food, drinks and rest.

Question 14

At what age should I have a hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed age, but we usually advise waiting until the pattern of loss has become clear — often mid-twenties or later — so the hairline is designed for the long term. Younger patients with aggressive loss may be better served by medical treatment first and surgery later.

Question 15

Will I go bald again after a transplant?

Accepted Answer

The transplanted follicles keep their donor resistance and generally last a lifetime. Native hair that was never transplanted can continue to thin, which is why we plan the hairline conservatively and discuss medication and follow-up.

Question 16

What is shock loss and should I worry?

Accepted Answer

Shock loss is temporary shedding of existing hair near the treated area caused by the trauma of surgery. It usually regrows within a few months. It is more common when native hair is already weak, and it is one of the reasons we avoid operating on very unstable loss patterns.

Question 17

What if I am not a good candidate?

Accepted Answer

We will tell you honestly. Some patients are better served by medical treatment, PRP or mesotherapy, a delayed operation, or no operation at all. A procedure that will not meet your expectations is not one we recommend.

Question 18

How do I know if I am a good candidate?

Accepted Answer

Good candidates have a confirmed donor supply, realistic expectations and a loss pattern we can plan around. Age, cause of loss, scalp laxity, hair calibre and curl, and general health all matter — which is why a photo review and a consultation come before any commitment.

Question 19

What happens at the consultation?

Accepted Answer

We review your history and goals, examine the scalp and donor area with dermoscopy, photograph the areas, estimate graft needs, and walk you through the method, hairline design, timeline and full cost. You leave with a written plan and can ask anything before deciding.

Question 20

Can I have a consultation before travelling?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send clear photos of the hairline, crown, temples and donor area by WhatsApp or the contact form, and we will give you a preliminary graft estimate and cost. The final plan is confirmed in person once we can examine the donor area properly.

Question 21

What tests are required before surgery?

Accepted Answer

A routine blood screen — full blood count, clotting, and viral markers such as hepatitis B and C and HIV — is standard for patient and staff safety. Results are reviewed by the clinical team before the procedure is confirmed.

Question 22

Which medications should I stop beforehand?

Accepted Answer

Aspirin, ibuprofen, aspirin-containing products, high-dose vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo and other blood-thinning supplements are typically paused for about a week, and any prescription blood thinner only under your own doctor's supervision. Tell us every medication you take; we will give you a written list of what to stop and when.

Question 23

Can I smoke or drink alcohol before the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Both affect graft survival and healing. Smoking constricts the tiny blood vessels that feed new grafts, so stopping one to two weeks before and after is strongly advised. Alcohol thins the blood and disturbs sleep and hydration — avoid it for at least 48 hours before surgery.

Question 24

Should I stop minoxidil or finasteride before surgery?

Accepted Answer

This is individual. Some surgeons ask for minoxidil to be paused a week before to reduce scalp vascularity, while finasteride is usually continued because it protects native hair. Do not change anything on your own — follow the written instruction we give you for your case.

Question 25

Can I dye or cut my hair before the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Avoid dyeing, bleaching or heavy chemical treatments for about two weeks beforehand so the scalp is not irritated. Do not cut the donor area; leave the length as it is so we can assess and match texture properly.

Question 26

How should I prepare for the day of surgery?

Accepted Answer

Wash your hair the morning of the procedure, eat a proper breakfast, wear a loose button-up or zip-up shirt so nothing rubs the scalp, and bring sunglasses for the ride home. Arrange transport if you would rather not drive after a long day, and avoid contact lenses during the session.

Question 27

Can I bring a companion?

Accepted Answer

Yes, one companion is welcome and can stay with you during breaks. Because the procedure is done under local anaesthesia and you remain fully awake, most patients feel comfortable attending on their own.

Question 28

How and when do I wash my hair after surgery?

Accepted Answer

The first wash is done at the clinic so you learn the technique. After that you wash daily with the supplied lotion and shampoo: apply the lotion for about 30 minutes, then rinse gently under a low stream of lukewarm water with your palms — never rub or scratch the recipient area.

Question 29

How should I sleep in the first week?

Accepted Answer

Sleep on your back with your head and shoulders elevated on two or three pillows for the first three to five nights. This reduces forehead and eyelid swelling and keeps pressure off the grafts and the donor area.

Question 30

Is swelling normal?

Accepted Answer

Mild forehead and eyelid swelling peaking on day two or three is common after frontal work and settles on its own within a week. Cold compresses on the forehead — not on the grafts — and staying well hydrated help.

Question 31

Why is my scalp itchy, and can I scratch it?

Accepted Answer

Itching is part of normal healing as the scalp dries and small scabs resolve. Use the saline spray or lotion we recommend instead of scratching. If itching comes with increasing redness, heat or discharge, contact us rather than treating it as routine.

Question 32

When can I exercise again?

Accepted Answer

Walking is fine from day two. Light gym work and jogging are usually possible after two weeks once swelling and scabbing have settled; heavy lifting, CrossFit, saunas and contact sports are better after four weeks, when grafts are fully anchored.

Question 33

When can I wear a cap, hat or helmet?

Accepted Answer

A loose, adjustable cap can usually be worn after about ten days for sun protection. Tight hats, beanies, cycling helmets and motorcycle helmets should wait roughly four weeks so they do not press on the new grafts.

Question 34

When can I swim or go in the sea?

Accepted Answer

Sea water, pools and hot tubs should be avoided for three to four weeks. Chlorine, salt and bacteria can irritate healing skin, and the buoyancy and friction of swimming put grafts at risk in the early period.

Question 35

Can I be in the sun?

Accepted Answer

Avoid direct sun on the scalp for the first month. The treated and donor areas burn easily and sun damage can affect healing and pigmentation. After that, protect the area with SPF 50 or a loose covering for several months.

Question 36

When can I cut my hair?

Accepted Answer

Scissor cutting of the top is usually fine after three to four weeks. Clippers on the donor area should wait four to six weeks so the healing dots are not disturbed. Your coordinator will confirm the timing for your healing at follow-up.

Question 37

How long does redness last?

Accepted Answer

Pinkness in the recipient area typically fades within two to six weeks, sometimes a little longer on the crown. It is usually covered by hair growth before it becomes a concern, and the included PRP session supports healing.

Question 38

What if a graft comes out in the first days?

Accepted Answer

Grafts are most vulnerable for the first five to seven days. If you bump the area or notice a graft dislodged, photograph it and contact us immediately — we will assess the spot and adjust the plan if a small top-up is needed.

Question 39

When can I fly home after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Most patients fly two to three days after the procedure, once the first wash is done and the team has checked the scalp. Long-haul flights are fine in that window; keep the scalp hydrated and avoid tight headwear at the airport.

Question 40

Is PRP included in my package?

Accepted Answer

Yes. One PRP session after the transplant is included in the all-inclusive price, along with your medication, post-op kit and annual follow-ups. There is no extra charge for it.

Question 41

What does PRP actually do?

Accepted Answer

Platelet-rich plasma is prepared from your own blood and applied to the scalp to release growth factors. It supports healing, can shorten post-operative redness and shedding, and helps strengthen both transplanted and existing hair.

Question 42

Do I need more than one PRP session?

Accepted Answer

One session is included after your transplant. Additional sessions are optional and are only suggested when thinning native hair would genuinely benefit — we will not push a treatment you do not need.

Question 43

What is mesotherapy and who is it for?

Accepted Answer

Mesotherapy delivers a blend of vitamins, peptides and minerals into the upper scalp to support weak, thinning hair. It suits patients in early thinning or those who want to protect native hair between procedures, and it is not a substitute for a transplant where follicles are already gone.

Question 44

Will PRP or mesotherapy stop my natural hair loss?

Accepted Answer

They support hair quality and scalp health but do not stop androgenetic loss on their own. If your pattern is progressive, we will discuss medical treatment that addresses the cause and how it fits with your surgical plan.

Question 45

How much does a hair transplant cost?

Accepted Answer

Premium FUE is 35,000 Rand, all-inclusive. The price covers your procedure, medication, post-op kit, one PRP session and annual follow-ups — with no hidden fees and no per-graft surprises on the day.

Question 46

What exactly is included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The surgeon-led procedure, your consultation and planning, shampoo, medication and post-op kit, one PRP treatment session, and annual follow-up checks. Anything additional you may want — such as extra PRP — is quoted openly before you decide.

Question 47

Why one fixed price instead of a per-graft quote?

Accepted Answer

A per-graft quote invites upselling on the operating table. A single all-inclusive price means the plan we agree is the plan you get: the graft number and density we commit to are what your donor area can safely support, not what maximises a bill.

Question 48

How many grafts can be done in one session?

Accepted Answer

Up to 4,500 grafts can be placed in a single Premium FUE session. Larger areas or very high density targets may be split into two sessions, planned around your donor capacity and healing.

Question 49

How do I book a consultation?

Accepted Answer

Use the contact form, WhatsApp us on +27 67 176 9277, or email info@bonitahairclinic.co.za. You will receive a written confirmation and a reply within 24 hours, and we will agree a time for your consultation or a remote review.

Question 50

Do you work with patients travelling to Cape Town?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our patient coordinator helps you plan the visit — consultation timing, procedure day, the first wash and your departure — so the schedule is realistic and you are not rushed before flying home.

Question 51

How do I pay, and when?

Accepted Answer

Payment details and the deposit schedule are confirmed in writing with your treatment plan, before any date is held. We will never ask for payment on the day of surgery or add fees that were not in the agreed plan.

Question 52

Do you offer a guarantee on results?

Accepted Answer

We commit to honest planning, surgeon-led work, and structured follow-up at month 1, 3, 6 and 12 — but no ethical clinic can promise a specific density, because biology, donor quality and healing vary from person to person. Where the outcome falls short of the plan, we discuss a revision before anything else.

Question 53

How is a beard transplant performed?

Accepted Answer

Follicles harvested by FUE from the back of the scalp are implanted into the beard area at correct angles. Cheek, jaw, moustache and sideburn zones each have a distinct natural direction.

Question 54

Which method is best?

Accepted Answer

FUE is most commonly preferred — no linear scar. DHI may help in small detailed zones. Sapphire FUE supports natural direction via refined channels. The right method is selected after evaluation.

Question 55

Can I shave?

Accepted Answer

Grafts need time to stabilise during early healing — shaving is not advised in that period. Full shaving is typically possible after the first weeks per the clinic's protocol.

Question 56

When will I see results?

Accepted Answer

Transplanted hairs shed within the first weeks; new growth becomes visible by 6–9 months, with full maturation up to 12 months.

Question 57

Will it correct a patchy / sparse beard?

Accepted Answer

Yes — filling patchy or asymmetric beard areas is a common indication for beard transplantation.

Question 58

Can it be done over scars or burns?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes, if the skin's blood supply is sufficient. Graft survival is less predictable on scars, so careful evaluation is required.

Question 59

Where does the donor hair come from?

Accepted Answer

Almost always the back of the scalp, where follicles are fine, single-haired and abundant. Scalp hair matches beard texture well when it is selected by calibre and implanted at the natural angle of each beard zone.

Question 60

Can I transplant only a moustache or a goatee?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Small, defined zones such as a moustache typically need around 200–400 grafts and a goatee or sideburn fill a similar range. Because the area is small, the session is short and the design detail matters more than the graft count.

Question 61

How many grafts does a full beard need?

Accepted Answer

A full beard reconstruction commonly falls between 1,500 and 3,000 grafts depending on the coverage you want and your existing density. Beard follicles grow in finer, often single-hair units, so the graft number is higher than patients expect for a natural look.

Question 62

Who is suitable?

Accepted Answer

Patients with thin/sparse brows, over-plucking, asymmetry, scar/burn-related loss, or dissatisfaction with microblading — with healthy donor hair and realistic expectations.

Question 63

How many grafts?

Accepted Answer

Aesthetic eyebrow reconstruction is commonly planned with 70–120 grafts. The exact number is personalised to current density and target shape.

Question 64

Will it look natural?

Accepted Answer

Very natural results are possible with correct design, fine single-hair grafts, very shallow implantation angle and accurate direction per zone.

Everything you want to know about hair, beard and eyebrow restoration

Hair Transplant

Before Your Procedure

Recovery & Aftercare

PRP & Support Treatments

Cost & Booking

Beard Transplant

Eyebrow Transplant