Mr. Tanaka, a 32-year-old software developer from Tokyo, presented with typical male pattern baldness (Norwood Scale IV), characterized by significant recession at the temples and thinning across the crown. The condition, exacerbated by long working hours and high-stress project deadlines, had persisted for nearly a decade, impacting his professional confidence and social interactions. Despite trying conventional treatments like topical solutions and dietary supplements, his hair loss progressed, leading him to explore surgical intervention.
Pre-Surgical Assessment & Planning
A detailed scalp analysis revealed a stable donor area in the occipital region with sufficient follicular density. Based on his aesthetic goals and hair characteristics, the medical team recommended Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). This minimally invasive technique was chosen for its precision and ability to avoid linear scarring, crucial for Mr. Tanaka’s preference for shorter hairstyles. The treatment plan involved transplanting 2,200 grafts (approximately 5,500 hairs) to reconstruct a natural-looking hairline and reinforce density in the frontal and mid-scalp zones.
Procedure & Recovery
The FUE procedure was performed under local anesthesia over a single session lasting about 7 hours. Using micro-punches (0.8–0.9mm), individual follicular units were extracted from the donor zone and meticulously implanted into the recipient sites, following the natural direction and angle of his existing hair growth. Mr. Tanaka reported minimal discomfort during the process, occasionally listening to music or resting.
Post-operative care included strict adherence to wound hygiene, avoidance of smoking and alcohol for one week, and refraining from strenuous activities. By day 10, the transplanted scabs had shed, and the donor area healed without visible traces. The initial transplanted hairs shed naturally within 4–6 weeks, as expected, before entering the growth phase.
Outcome & Impact
At the 12-month follow-up, Mr. Tanaka’s scalp showed 85% graft survival with dense, natural-looking coverage. The restored hairline effectively balanced facial proportions, making him appear years younger. He reported a dramatic boost in self-esteem, noting improved ease in client meetings and social settings. His case underscores how tailored FUE protocols can address hair loss in high-stress professions like IT, combining aesthetic refinement with psychological recovery.
