Hair transplant in Islamabad have gained immense popularity in recent years as a permanent solution to hair loss. While most people associate hair transplants with receding hairlines or thinning on the top of the head, many struggle with baldness in the crown area—the circular region at the back of the scalp. A crown hair transplant is a specialized procedure that requires a different approach compared to transplants on the hairline or mid-scalp.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between crown hair transplants and other hair transplants, including their unique challenges, procedural techniques, and expected results.
1. Understanding the Crown Area
The crown (vertex) area is the highest point at the back of the scalp, where hair naturally grows in a swirling pattern called the whorl. This region is more prone to progressive baldness, which can make transplant planning more complex.
Why is the Crown Different?
- Hair in the crown grows in a spiral pattern, making placement trickier.
- It is more affected by progressive baldness, requiring long-term planning.
- The crown usually has less blood supply than the hairline, leading to slower healing and delayed growth of transplanted follicles.
2. Key Differences Between Crown and Other Hair Transplants
A. Hair Growth Pattern & Implantation Strategy
One of the biggest differences between a crown transplant and a hairline transplant is the natural hair direction.
- Crown Transplant: The hair in the crown follows a whorled pattern, meaning that grafts must be carefully placed to mimic the natural swirl. Incorrect placement can make the transplant look unnatural.
- Hairline & Frontal Transplant: The hair at the hairline grows in a forward direction, making implantation more straightforward.
💡 Challenge: Surgeons must create a realistic swirl pattern in crown transplants, requiring greater skill and precision.
B. Graft Density & Coverage
- Crown Transplant: The crown is a larger surface area that often requires higher graft numbers for full coverage. However, since the area is round, a lower density per square cm is usually needed to create a natural look.
- Hairline & Frontal Transplant: The hairline needs higher density because it’s the most visible part of the scalp.
💡 Challenge: Achieving full density in the crown often requires multiple sessions over time.
C. Rate of Hair Loss Progression
- Crown Area: Hair loss in the crown tends to be progressive, meaning that if a transplant is done too early, surrounding hair may continue to fall out, leading to an unnatural look over time.
- Hairline & Mid-Scalp: Hair loss in these areas is often more stable once male pattern baldness has settled, making transplantation more predictable.
💡 Solution: Surgeons often wait until crown hair loss stabilizes or plan for future transplants.
D. Healing Time & Growth Progress
- Crown Transplant: Due to the low blood supply, the healing process is slower, and it can take 12-18 months to see full results.
- Hairline & Frontal Transplant: Typically, results are visible within 6-12 months because of better vascular supply in these areas.
💡 Tip: Patients need to be more patient with crown transplants as results take longer to appear.
E. Number of Grafts Required
- Crown Transplant: Requires 2,000–3,500 grafts depending on baldness severity.
- Hairline & Frontal Transplant: Usually requires 1,500–3,000 grafts, depending on hairline shape and density.
💡 Consideration: Since the donor area is limited, patients with advanced baldness may prioritize the hairline over the crown if grafts are insufficient.
3. Techniques Used for Crown Hair Transplant
The same FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) techniques are used for both crown and other transplants, but implantation strategies differ.
✅ FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction):
- Individual grafts are extracted and implanted one by one.
- Preferred for crown transplants because of minimal scarring and better graft survival.
✅ FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation):
- A strip of scalp is removed, and follicles are extracted.
- Suitable for high-density requirements but leaves a linear scar.
💡 Best Choice: FUE is generally preferred for crown transplants due to the delicate nature of implantation in the swirl pattern.
4. Who is a Good Candidate for Crown Hair Transplant?
You may be a good candidate if:
✔ You have stable hair loss in the crown area.
✔ You have sufficient donor hair on the back and sides of your head.
✔ You are patient and understand that results take longer than hairline transplants.
✔ You are in good health and have realistic expectations.
5. What to Expect After a Crown Hair Transplant?
🗓 1-3 Months: Shedding phase (shock loss is normal).
🗓 4-6 Months: New hair starts growing, but it’s thin.
🗓 6-12 Months: Gradual thickening of hair.
🗓 12-18 Months: Full results become visible.
💡 Tip: Patience is key! The crown takes longer to show final results.
Conclusion
A crown hair transplant is different from other hair transplants due to the unique whorl pattern, slower growth, and progressive hair loss in the area. Unlike hairline transplants, it requires greater precision to create a natural appearance and often takes longer to show results.
If you’re considering a crown transplant in Islamabad, it’s crucial to consult with a skilled surgeon who understands the complexities of crown restoration. With the right planning and expectations, you can achieve natural, long-lasting results.