October 3, 2019
What makes eyebrow transplants different
Direction, growth angle, follicular units and growth cycle: four characteristics that set eyebrow hair apart from scalp hair, and that specialists take into account before operating.
Eyebrows are an essential part of facial aesthetics and define our appearance, both because of their central position on the face and because they frame the eyes. An eyebrow transplant is similar to other types of hair transplant intended for the scalp: the transplanted hairs are permanent and the process is the same, but because of the unique characteristics of eyebrows, certain important distinctions from a scalp transplant must not be overlooked. Here is what specialists take into account before operating.
Eyebrows have four distinct characteristics
Direction
The direction of eyebrow hair changes noticeably from one part of the brow to another. In the area of the eyebrow near the nose, the hairs point upwards, while those at the top, the arch of the brow, point towards the corners of the eyes and downwards. At the ends of the eyebrows the hairs are directed towards the corners of the eyes and upwards. The interlacing pattern of eyebrow growth makes them converge in the centre and form a subtle, natural ridge in the middle of each eyebrow.
Growth angle
The second distinct characteristic of eyebrows is the growth angle of the hairs. Eyebrow hairs emerge from the skin at an acute angle, so they grow parallel to the skin, unlike scalp hair, which emerges from the scalp at an angle of 45°.
Follicular units
The third characteristic of eyebrows lies in their follicular units. Eyebrow hairs grow individually, which differs from the follicular units of the scalp, which contain 1 to 4 follicles and so form tufts.
Growth cycle
The last important characteristic of eyebrows is the relatively short growth cycle of the hair in that area. Scalp hair has a growth cycle spanning 3 to 7 years, whereas eyebrow hairs will grow for only 4 months before entering a resting phase and then falling out.
What to know about the treatment
An eyebrow transplant is a safe procedure that brings a clear improvement in appearance. Patients considering it should also be reminded that during healing, the tissue at the implantation sites contracts, which can change the orientation of eyebrow hairs, usually horizontal to the skin, and can make the eyebrows sit slightly higher than expected; this is temporary. Because their growth differs from that of eyebrow hair, the transplanted hairs will need to be trimmed periodically.
Seek the advice of a specialist
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