Everything you need to know about grafts in a hair transplant

The graft is the basic unit of hair transplantation. Its quality, conservation, and distribution directly influence density and appearance.

Everything you need to know about grafts in a hair transplant
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In a hair transplant, the graft is the basic unit. It carries the hair follicle from the donor area to the recipient area. Its quality, handling, and distribution directly influence the final appearance of the transplant.

Knowing what a graft is helps you understand a cost estimate, ask the right questions, and assess a proposed treatment plan. Graft count matters, but it cannot predict the result on its own.

To understand your quote, explore the prices and included care and the stages of Sapphire FUE.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

What is a graft?

A graft, or micro-graft, is a small group of hair follicles. It is harvested from an area of the scalp where hair is more resistant to loss and then implanted in thinning areas.

These micro-grafts are essential for a successful hair transplant. They contribute to density, orientation, and natural appearance of the final result.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Graft composition

A micro-graft associates hair follicles with the surrounding tissues. Discover the elements represented in this diagram.

EXPLORE THE DIAGRAM8 parts
Graft diagram: choose a part to read its explanation

Touch a marker or choose a part below.

Follicular unit

A hair graft can contain from 1 to 5 hairs.

A micrograft is an essential unit in hair transplantation, composed of several fundamental elements:

  • Hair follicles: each micrograft contains between 1 and 4 hair follicles, which influences the density and natural appearance.
  • Follicles derived from a donor area that is suitable are generally less sensitive to DHT-related hair loss.
  • Hair retains its characteristics after transplantation.

Characteristics of grafts

A hair graft can contain between 1 and 4 hair follicles. Their size and structure vary depending on the extraction technique used.

The choice of extraction and implantation method directly influences the distribution and viability of micrografts.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Regrowth, in pictures.

The eight images below are from the NOVA website series. The dates correspond to the montage: they illustrate this process, not a guaranteed result.

Before the procedure: NOVA regrowth series

Before the procedure

Starting point

This view shows the situation before the transplant. It serves as a reference for follow-up, not a prediction of results.

1 / 8

Illustration photos: your result depends on your situation. In case of unusual symptoms, contact your team without waiting for the next step.

Months 1 to 4 · The beginning

A resting phase and temporary shedding of shafts may precede regrowth. Initial hairs appear gradually; volume remains modest.

Months 5 to 6 · Progression

Coverage may improve. Thickness and texture evolve at different rates depending on the person.

Months 7 to 8 · Development

Growth continues and appearance may become denser. This stage does not necessarily correspond to final density.

Months 9 to 12 and beyond · Maturation

Your results continue to develop. Depending on your situation and follow-up care, they may be assessed over a period of up to 18 months.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Understanding the number of grafts implanted

To ensure the number of grafts promised matches the number actually implanted, it is recommended to:

  • check if the clinic clearly details the process on the estimate;
  • ask how the grafts are counted after extraction;

This verification ensures greater transparency and helps to better understand what was actually done.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Preservation of grafts between extraction and implantation

Grafts are fragile and require optimal conditions for their survival, including:

  • Storage in a nutrient solution: grafts must remain hydrated to avoid drying out.
  • Appropriate refrigeration: stable and controlled temperature helps preserve their viability.
Grafts prepared for implantation

Preparation and preservation of grafts.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

What is graft transection?

Transection occurs when a hair follicle is partially damaged during extraction. The graft becomes less usable for producing new hair.

This factor can affect the overall success of the transplant. To minimize this risk, it is essential to choose an experienced team equipped to work precisely.

IllustrationAppearance and explanation
Complete transection

Complete transection

The follicle is completely cut. No bulb present.

Partial transection

Partial transection

The follicle is partially cut. Part of the bulb is missing.

Follicle stripping

Follicle stripping

Cells of the follicle’s outer sheath are ripped off (stripping).

Dermal papilla (DP) damage

Dermal papilla (DP) damage

The dermal papilla, essential for hair growth, is damaged or absent.

Bulb damage

Bulb damage

The follicle is completely cut. No bulb present.

Follicular fracture

Follicular fracture

The follicle has a fracture in its structure.

Presence of follicles in telogen phase

Presence of follicles in telogen phase

The follicle is in the telogen, or resting phase. This appearance differs from damage caused by extraction.

Complete transection
Appearance and explanation

Complete transection

The follicle is completely cut. No bulb present.

Partial transection
Appearance and explanation

Partial transection

The follicle is partially cut. Part of the bulb is missing.

Follicle stripping
Appearance and explanation

Follicle stripping

Cells of the follicle’s outer sheath are ripped off (stripping).

Dermal papilla (DP) damage
Appearance and explanation

Dermal papilla (DP) damage

The dermal papilla, essential for hair growth, is damaged or absent.

Bulb damage
Appearance and explanation

Bulb damage

The follicle is completely cut. No bulb present.

Follicular fracture
Appearance and explanation

Follicular fracture

The follicle has a fracture in its structure.

Presence of follicles in telogen phase
Appearance and explanation

Presence of follicles in telogen phase

The follicle is in the telogen, or resting phase. This appearance differs from damage caused by extraction.

This table illustrates different follicle aspects without allowing diagnosis from an image alone.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Coily hair grafts: a specific challenge

Coily hair has a more curved structure and particular density, making extraction and implantation more delicate. This curvature varies per individual and requires specific expertise to minimize follicle damage.

In this context, the team’s experience is an important factor. Adapted extraction and regular implantation contribute to a more uniform result.

Grafts with straight hair

Straight hair

Grafts with coily hair

Coily hair

To go further: Afro and coily hair transplantation.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

What to consider for an optimal result

Several elements must be considered for a successful hair transplant:

  • the number of grafts needed according to the area size;
  • individual characteristics, such as hair thickness and the density of the donor area ;
  • the quality of graft preparation and storage;
  • the experience level of the team performing the procedure;
  • the graft distribution strategy to achieve a natural appearance.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

Graft arrangement: a key method for a successful outcome

In hair transplantation, grafts are generally placed side by side on compresses containing a limited number of units. This organization offers several essential advantages: it allows precise graft counting, viability verification, and easier distribution control.

The gallery presents NOVA cases with their graft counts and follow-up timing. Each journey is individual.

Comparison of graft positioning on compresses
Position to avoidRecommended position

Two graft arrangements: grouped together on the left and spread across gauze on the right.

Optimal organization

Arranging grafts in a clear manner also facilitates the surgeon’s and team’s work. This method ensures quick visualization of the number of grafts available for the patient, while limiting unnecessary handling.

Moreover, it helps preserve the grafts in good condition until implantation, which remains essential for successful treatment.

NOVA // LOG · THE GRAFTS

In conclusion

Hair transplantation is an art requiring careful preparation and precise expertise. The result depends not only on the number of grafts implanted, but also on how they are handled, their ability to take root well, and, of course, the experience of the team supporting you.

By choosing a serious and competent clinic, you maximize your chances of obtaining a denser, more harmonious hairstyle suited to your situation.

The information presented does not replace a medical consultation. Each case requires individual evaluation.

Return to NOVA // LOG

Sources and references

NOVA resources to explore this topic and prepare your discussion with the team.

SourceReference and link
NOVA CapillairePublished source version of this article
NOVA CapillairePlans, fees and included care
NOVA CapillairePatient care guide
NOVA CapillaireIndividual before/after cases

Further reading

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