Hair transplantation offers a promising solution for individuals experiencing hair loss. However, for a successful hair transplant, many factors must be correctly implemented. Foremost among these factors is the process of “canal opening.” So, what is canal opening in hair transplantation, and why is it so important?
In the hair transplantation process, canal opening involves creating small slots where the hair follicles will be placed. These slots provide the appropriate environment necessary for the natural growth of the hair follicles. Canal opening is one of the most critical stages of hair transplantation, and errors made during this stage can negatively affect the overall success of the transplant.
Stages of Canal Opening
Planning and Anesthesia First, the patient’s hair loss condition and expectations are evaluated. The area for hair transplantation is determined, and the front hairline is planned. After the planning stage, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area where the procedure will be performed.
Preparations for Canal Opening After anesthesia is applied, a special serum is injected to complete the preparations for canal opening. This serum softens the skin and facilitates the canal opening process.
Canal Opening The canal opening process is carried out by calculating the diameter and required depth of the hair follicles. Special tools called “Sapphire blades” are used at this stage.
The Importance of Canal Opening in Hair Transplantation
Nutrition and Stability The canal opening process is crucial for the nutrition and stability of the hair follicles. The canals must match the diameter of the hair follicles to be transplanted. Wide canals can cause the hair follicles to move or become buried, while narrow canals can complicate the transplantation process and hinder the proper nutrition of the follicles.
Natural Appearance and Angle One of the most important factors in hair transplantation is ensuring that the transplanted hair has a natural and aesthetic appearance. The canals should be opened at angles that align with the natural direction of the existing hair. This way, as the hair grows, it will achieve a natural look and can be styled as desired. Incorrectly angled canals can result in an undesirable “grass head” appearance.
Regional Angle Adjustments The angles of the grafts to be transplanted should be adjusted according to the patient’s scalp structure and hair thinning pattern. The front hairline should be angled at 30 degrees forward, the sides (temple area) at 45 degrees forward and to each side. In the crown area, the direction and angles of the hair vary significantly. Therefore, the canals should be opened considering the direction and angles of the existing hair in the crown area. If there is no hair in the crown area, it is recommended to open the canals at a slight outward angle of 45 degrees on the sides and 30-45 degrees forward in the middle of the crown.
The canal opening in hair transplantation is a critical stage that directly affects the success of the transplant. Canals opened at the correct angles and appropriate widths ensure that the transplanted hair achieves a natural and aesthetic appearance. Additionally, it enhances the nutrition and stability of the hair follicles, contributing to long-term successful results. Therefore, individuals considering hair transplantation should choose doctors who are experienced and have an aesthetic perspective on the canal opening process.
