Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Arambulo is the first ABHRS Board Certified hair transplant surgeon (abhrs.org) since 2014, a Fellow Member of ISHRS ( ishrs.org): the credentials showcasing proven skills and experience in hair transplantation. Check out the life-changing transformations of our satisfied patients through authentic video testimonials and natural-looking before-and-after photos

Our Personalized Non-Surgical Hair Loss Treatments consist of Trichotest, a personalized genetic test now available at our center that identifies the best non-surgical hair loss treatment options based on your genetic profile. Hair Metrix, videodermoscope for precise diagnosis and hair growth monitoring Tricopat Painless Needleless Mesotherapy for delivery of hair growth solutions according to your needs. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP): a natural-looking tattoo and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) are two surgical techniques used to harvest hair grafts from the donor area. FUT involves removing a thin strip of scalp from the back of the head. The follicles are then dissected under a microscope and implanted into the thinning area. This method may leave a linear scar but allows for harvesting a large and the most permanent number of grafts in one session. FUE involves individually extracting follicular units directly from the scalp using a tiny punch. It is less invasive, leaves minimal scarring (tiny dot-like marks), and is ideal for patients who prefer to wear short hairstyles. Both methods are effective, and the best choice depends on yourAGA genetic predisposition , donor characteristics, goals, and lifestyle. At AHRC, we carefully assess each patient to recommend the most suitable technique for natural, lasting results.

Hair transplantation is a minor surgical procedure that involves transferring healthy hair follicles from the donor area—typically the back of the scalp—to areas of thinning or baldness. When performed properly, the transplanted hair grows naturally and permanently. [Click here to view real patient results.] There are two main techniques in hair transplantation: Strip FUT and FUE. Visit our [Hair Transplant page] to learn more.

Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) is a major advancement in hair restoration. It is a technically demanding procedure that must be performed by a well-trained, experienced physician. In this method, follicular units are individually extracted and implanted to achieve natural density without linear scarring. [Watch our video to see Dr. Arambulo perform FUE.]

Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) is not a standalone hair transplant method but a refined implantation technique used in FUE procedures. It refers to the use of implanter devices, such as the Choi pen, to insert follicular units directly into the scalp without pre-made incisions. This method allows for precise, controlled, and minimally traumatic graft placement, helping preserve graft integrity and improve healing. Originally introduced by Dr. Kyungpook Kim and Dr. Choi, DHI has been adopted by many surgeons worldwide. However, it is important to understand that DHI is not a separate method of hair transplantation—it is simply a tool or approach within the FUE technique. Marketing DHI as a separate or superior method is misleading. [Learn more at www.ishrs.org.] Since 2010, Dr. Arambulo has successfully incorporated the use of Choi and Lion implanters at AHRC, ensuring atraumatic graft placement with optimal outcomes. Her approach is rooted in clinical experience, in-depth knowledge of diverse hair types, and precision harvesting through FUE using her preferred extraction system. Dr. Arambulo emphasizes that the success of a hair transplant depends not on machines or trendy terms, but on the skill, artistry, and judgment of a qualified hair transplant surgeon. At AHRC, we focus on naturalness, density, and long-term survival—and our results speak for themselves. [Explore our Patients’ Hair Transplant Journey to see real outcomes.]

In Strip FUT, the donor hair at the back is kept long to conceal the linear incision. In FUE, shaving may be required depending on the size of the procedure. Full scalp shaving is typically necessary for sessions involving more than 1,000 grafts. For those who prefer not to shave, we also offer a Non-Shaven FUE technique. [Visit our FUE page for more on donor scalp preparation.]

AHRC performs up to 3,500 grafts in a single Strip FUT session and up to 2,000 grafts using FUE. The duration depends on your scalp characteristics and the number of grafts needed. Most procedures last 5–12 hours. Patients arrive in the morning and usually complete the surgery by late afternoon.

Local anesthesia is administered to the donor and recipient areas. Most patients report minimal discomfort after the anesthesia takes effect. The “Gate Control Theory” is used during administration to further reduce pain. Patients often watch movies, listen to music, or nap during the procedure. Post-surgical discomfort is typically mild.

The required number of grafts depends on the extent of hair loss, projected future loss, and desired density. While online consultation can give a rough estimate, in-person consultation is essential for accurate evaluation of donor supply and graft planning.

Hair transplantation is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, often with mild sedation. Most patients return home the same day. Healing Timeline: Day 1–2: Mild oozing and discomfort, manageable with oral medication. Day 3: Mild swelling may occur; scabs start to form. Days 4–7: Scabs begin to fall off. 2–4 weeks: Transplanted hairs may shed, which is normal. 4–6 months: New hair begins to grow. 12 months: Final, fully mature results are visible. We provide detailed written and video post-op instructions for home care.

Yes. When performed correctly by an experienced surgeon, transplanted hair follicles taken from genetically resistant areas will grow for a lifetime. At AHRC, we emphasize donor preservation, proper graft handling, and meticulous placement to ensure long-term success.

Absolutely. Hair transplantation is both a science and an art. When done correctly, your results will be undetectable—even under close inspection. Dr. Arambulo’s artistic and meticulous technique ensures natural growth direction, density, and aesthetics.

In Strip FUT, a linear scar remains, but modern techniques such as trichophytic closure and deep sutures make the scar barely noticeable. In FUE, tiny punctate scars are scattered and often imperceptible, especially for those wearing short hair.

No hair transplant technique is truly scarless. FUE is minimally invasive and does not involve stitches, but it still leaves micro scars. DHI, a graft placement technique using implanters, is part of FUE and not a separate method. Marketing these as “scarless” is misleading. [Learn more at www.ishrs.org.]