What Is a Hair Graft?

A Complete Guide for Hair Transplant Patients:

If you’re considering a hair transplant, you’ve probably heard the term “hair graft”. Understanding what a graft is and how it works is crucial to making informed decisions about your treatment and achieving natural results.

This guide explains everything you need to know about hair grafts, including types, extraction methods, survival rates, and factors that affect cost and success.

What Is a Hair Graft?

A hair graft is a small piece of scalp tissue containing 1 to 4 hair follicles that are transplanted from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the head) to areas with thinning or baldness.

Grafts are the fundamental units of modern hair transplants. They ensure that transplanted hair grows naturally and blends seamlessly with existing hair.

Types of Hair Grafts

Hair grafts are classified based on the number of hairs they contain:

1. Single-Hair Grafts

• Contain 1 hair follicle
• Used primarily for designing natural hairlines
• Provide a soft, realistic hairline appearance

2. Double-Hair Grafts

• Contain 2 hair follicles
• Used for increasing density behind the hairline
• Help achieve a fuller look without overcrowding

3. Triple or Multiple-Hair Grafts

• Contain 3–4 follicles per graft
• Placed in the middle or back of the scalp
• Adds volume and density for advanced hair loss cases

How Hair Grafts Are Extracted

There are two main methods to extract hair grafts for transplantation:

1. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

• Individual grafts are extracted one by one
• Leaves tiny dot-like scars, often undetectable
• Faster healing and minimal downtime
• Most commonly used technique today

2. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation or Strip Method)

• A strip of scalp is removed from the donor area
• Grafts are dissected under a microscope
• Leaves a linear scar
• Slightly cheaper than FUE but less preferred cosmetically

How Hair Grafts Are Implanted

Once grafts are harvested, the surgeon creates tiny recipient sites in the thinning or bald area. The angle, direction, and density of implantation are critical to ensure a natural appearance.

• Single-hair grafts are typically used at the front hairline
• Multiple-hair grafts are used behind for volume
• Proper spacing prevents overcrowding and ensures healthy growth

Factors Affecting Hair Graft Survival

The success of a hair transplant depends on the survival of the grafts. Factors include:

• Handling: Grafts must be kept hydrated and handled gently
• Surgeon expertise: Proper implantation technique ensures high survival
• Patient health: Smoking, poor diet, and certain medications can reduce survival
• Post-care: Following post-transplant instructions improves outcomes

With skilled surgeons, graft survival rates are generally above 90–95%.

How Many Grafts Do You Need?

The number of grafts depends on:

• Extent of hair loss
• Hair thickness and texture
• Desired density and coverage
• Donor area availability

A small receding hairline may require 800–1200 grafts, while extensive baldness can require 2500–4000 grafts.

Cost of Hair Grafts in Hair Transplants

Most clinics calculate the hair transplant cost per graft. In India, the price usually ranges between ₹25–₹60 per graft.

Factors influencing cost:

• Clinic location and reputation
• Surgeon experience
• Type of procedure (FUE or FUT)
• Number of grafts needed
• Technology used in extraction and implantation

Why Understanding Hair Grafts Matters

Knowing about hair grafts helps you:

• Ask the right questions during consultation
• Avoid misleading “unlimited graft” offers
• Choose a clinic with transparent pricing
• Understand the timeline and expected results

Why Choose Desai’s Skin, Hair & Laser Clinic for Hair Transplants

At Desai’s Skin Clinic, we focus on:

• Accurate graft estimation tailored to each patient
• Advanced FUE hair transplant technology
• Expert dermatologist supervision
• Natural-looking, permanent results
• Transparent cost per graft with no hidden charges

👉 Book your consultation today: Contact Desai’s Skin Clinic

Final Thoughts

A hair graft is the foundation of any successful hair transplant. Understanding graft types, extraction methods, and survival factors can help you make informed decisions and achieve natural, long-lasting results.