Types of Hair Loss (And What They Mean)

Hair loss isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different patterns happen for different reasons, and that’s why we assess you before recommending any procedure.

1) Androgenetic Alopecia (Male/Female Pattern Baldness)

• Most common type

• Gradual thinning over time

• For men: often starts at the temples and crown

• For women: more often overall thinning with widening part

Why it matters for transplant: We plan the hairline and density based on how your pattern may progress in the future.

2) Alopecia Areata (Patchy Hair Loss)

• Sudden appearance of round or oval bald patches

• May affect scalp only, or sometimes other areas of the body

Why it matters: Some cases can be unpredictable—so we tailor treatment and timing based on stability.

3) Telogen Effluvium (Diffuse Shedding)

• Hair sheds more evenly across the scalp

• Often triggered by stress, illness, surgery, childbirth, or nutritional issues

Why it matters: Transplant is usually not the first step—addressing the cause helps hair return and supports better outcomes.

4) Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Hair Loss)

• Permanent damage to hair follicles (scars form)

• Often associated with inflammation, redness, or pain in some cases

Why it matters: Transplant feasibility depends on the stability of the scarred area—special evaluation is essential.

5) Traction Alopecia

• Caused by tight hairstyles that pull hair over time

• Common with braids, tight ponytails, and extensions

Why it matters: Stopping the traction and treating the scalp early can help prevent worsening before transplant planning.

Types of Hair Transplants (Techniques Explained)

Hair transplant techniques mainly differ by how the donor hair is harvested and how it’s placed. The goal in every case is natural-looking density and a realistic hairline.

1) FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

How it works:

• Individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area (usually the back/sides of the scalp)

• Then grafts are implanted into the areas of thinning

Benefits:

• Minimal visible scarring

• Faster recovery for many patients

• Suitable for many hair types and patterns

2) FUT (FUT / Strip Method)

How it works:

• A strip of scalp is removed from the donor area

• The tissue is processed into follicular units and implanted into the balding area

Benefits:

• Can be efficient for larger sessions

• Useful in certain cases, depending on donor hair characteristics

Note: This method leaves a linear scar, which is typically hidden by surrounding hair.

3) DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)

How it works:

• A specialised implantation tool is used to place grafts directly into the scalp

• Often allows more control over angle and depth

Benefits:

• Can help improve the precision and natural direction of hair growth

• Commonly used for restoring hairline and dense areas

Choosing the Right Option 

The best transplant method depends on factors such as:

• Your pattern and stage of hair loss

• Your donor hair availability

• Hair characteristics (texture, curl, thickness)

• Scalp condition and overall health

That’s why we focus on proper assessment and individualised planning—so you’re not just “getting a transplant,” you’re getting a plan designed around your hair loss type.

Book an Assessment

If you’re dealing with hair loss and want clarity on what will work best for you, schedule a consultation at Kampala Independent Hospital. We’ll review your hair loss pattern, evaluate donor hair, and recommend the safest, most effective transplant approach for your goals.