Hair Transplant with the Artas Robot

The techniques used for hair transplant surgery are constantly evolving. In this industry, patient satisfaction is paramount. Increasingly, new technological advances are allowing for greater comfort for patients and more natural outcomes.

The latest innovation in this area is the use of robots as part of the hair transplant process.  The Artas Robot was designed to extract follicular grafts for implantation as part of the hair transplant process. In this article, we will be explaining how the Artas works, the efficacy of its use, and how viable it is as a tool.

Summary

1. Robotic Hair Transplantation and its Origins
2. How is the Hair Transplant Done with the Artas Robot?
3. Hair Transplant with or without a Robot?
4. Conclusion

Robotic Hair Transplantation and its Origins

The high-tech robot, Artas, was developed by US medical device company Restoration Robotics. The robot was given FDA clearance in 2011 and has since gone on to be used widely in hair transplant operations throughout the world. Artas’ utility is limited to the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) phase of the procedure, where it removes follicular units from the donor site at the back of the patient’s head prior to transplantation.

Like the traditional FUE manual method, this robotic hair transplant system leaves only micro scars at the donor site, improving the recovery time through eliminating the linear scarring associated with the “strip”, or FUT, method. The FUE procedure optimizes the retention of the hair follicles, with the robot removing only the follicles most suited to transplantation.

The Technology Used

The function of the Artas is made possible thanks to an algorithm that calculates in advance the exit angle for each hair. Only the best hair follicles are selected and over 90% of them are used. The robotic arm removes follicular units with precision and speed unmatched by its human counterparts.

The Artas robotic hair transplant procedure therefore eliminates possible human errors during the hair transplantation process. As such, patients can enjoy a consistent implant quality. However, the system is not flawless, and occasionally fails to recognise when the harvesting is complete, as this study showed.

How is the Hair Transplant Done with the Artas Robot?

As with manual FUE hair transplant surgery, local anaesthesia is first administered to the patient’s scalp. Then, a tensioner is installed by an assistant at the back of the patient’s skull. The robotic arm is then positioned automatically and scans the scalp in search of viable follicular units.

This process continues until the robot has completed its extraction of the defined area. The removal of follicles by a robot reduces the risk of having hair follicles removed outside the donor area.

Treatment time

The fast and precise operation of the robot arm reduces the treatment time by around 30% to 50%. The procedure takes only one to four and a half hours maximum. The recipient sites where the hair follicles are replanted must correspond to the specific distribution set by the robot.

Only in this way can the hair regrow properly. Artas locates these receptor sites and generates them at exactly the right angle and depth. This allows for a consistent density of transplanted hair.

What are the costs of hair implants made with a robot?

A robotic transplant costs between £3,500 and £7,000 in Europe. To give you an idea, the prices of a hair transplant performed in Turkey can start from just £2,600. The price also includes luxury accommodation, transfer to and from the airport and a follow-up.

Hair Transplant With or Without a Robot?

If you opt for a robotic capillary intervention, several factors must be taken into account. First of all, it is a recent technique that has yet to provide consistent results. Especially since almost no extensive clinical studies have been done on this method. Its scope is also quite limited, as the procedure can only be performed on those with pattern baldness with black or brown straight hair.

There are also many doctors already using the most innovative techniques in the field of manual hair transplantation. Their experience makes it possible to obtain comparable quality and, above all, natural results. The only difference being the time it takes for a successful transplantation.

Elithair Methodologies

Dr. Balwi from Elithair has already overseen thousands of successful hair implants. He is a true specialist in his field and always at your disposal to obtain the best results. With Dr. Balwi and his dedicated team, you will benefit from the expertise of a hair surgeon that perfectly masters the FUE method.

At Elithair, only the most modern methods are used. For example, our services include our new and pain-free Sleep Deep anaesthesia, and we also boast one of the most experienced teams in the DHI technique in the world. Additionally, we give free and detailed advice on the treatment options available to you. Our expertise allows you to always get the best end result.

Conclusion

The Artas robotic hair transplant offers significant advantages, including guaranteed grafting accuracy, reduced extraction time by up to 50%, and minimized risk of damaging existing hair. By eliminating human errors, the robot ensures high graft quality and precision. However, this technology comes at a premium, with costs ranging from £3,500 to £7,000. Additionally, the punches used are larger than those in manual procedures, increasing the risk of damage to nearby follicles. A major drawback is the lack of sufficient clinical studies, making it difficult to determine its long-term effectiveness compared to traditional methods.

While robotic technology enhances precision, it cannot replace the expertise of an experienced hair transplant surgeon. Human specialists provide invaluable knowledge, experience, and personalized care that machines cannot replicate. Dr. Balwi and his medical teams at Elithair have performed over 20,000 successful hair transplants, ensuring natural restoration and optimal results. If you are considering a hair transplant, Elithair offers free, non-binding consultations to help you explore your options, providing expert guidance for a successful procedure in Turkey.