If you’ve researched hair restoration, you’ve probably come across the term “hair plugs.” But what exactly are hair plugs?
At Concord Hair Restoration, we often meet patients who’ve heard of hair plugs but aren’t sure how they compare to today’s modern, natural-looking procedures like FUE and Neograft. Let’s explore what hair plugs were, why they fell out of favor, and what advanced options are now available.
What Are Hair Plugs and How Did They Work?
Hair plugs were one of the earliest forms of hair transplantation, first introduced in the 1950s. The procedure involved removing round sections of scalp tissue, usually 4 mm wide, from the back of the head (the donor area). These plugs, each containing multiple hair follicles, were then inserted into bald areas of the scalp.
While revolutionary for its time, the results often looked unnatural because the transplanted hair grew in clusters rather than following the scalp’s natural pattern. This “doll-like” appearance made hair plugs recognizable and, over time, outdated.
Why Hair Plugs Are No Longer Used
Modern technology has made the old “plug” method completely obsolete. Today’s hair restoration techniques like FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and Neograft which offer precise, natural results with no visible scarring.
Here’s how they differ:
- Hair Plugs (Old Method): Large grafts containing many hairs, leaving noticeable gaps or patterns.
- FUE (Modern Method): Individual follicle extraction for seamless blending.
- Neograft (Advanced FUE): Automated system that increases speed and accuracy while minimizing downtime.
At Concord Hair Restoration, we only perform FUE and Neograft procedures, which are far more advanced and tailored to each patient.
The Advantages of Modern Hair Restoration
Modern techniques go beyond restoring hair — they restore confidence. Compared to outdated hair plugs, today’s options offer:
- Natural hairline design using precise follicle placement.
- No linear scars thanks to minimally invasive extraction.
- Faster healing time with little to no downtime.
- Custom density control to achieve your ideal thickness and look.
Our physicians perform every procedure with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each follicle follows your scalp’s natural growth pattern for authentic results.
Are Hair Plugs Still Performed Anywhere?
While some clinics may still reference “hair plugs,” the term is now mostly historical. Reputable clinics like Concord Hair Restoration rely exclusively on modern FUE and Neograft technologies, which have replaced plug-based methods entirely.
How Concord Hair Restoration Can Help
Our practice provides advanced solutions for men and women in both Los Angeles and San Diego, including:
- FUE Hair Transplants – The gold standard in minimally invasive restoration.
- Neograft Technology – Automated follicular extraction with enhanced precision.
- Eyebrow and Facial Hair Restoration – For patients seeking fuller brows or beards.
- Female Hair Restoration – Designed to address hormonal and pattern-related thinning.
Every treatment begins with a one-on-one consultation where we assess your scalp, discuss goals, and recommend the best modern alternative to outdated hair plug methods.
What Are Hair Plugs in Today’s Terms?
In simple terms, hair plugs were the early version of today’s hair transplants but with much less refined results. Thanks to modern innovations like FUE and Neograft, patients can now achieve fuller, natural-looking hair without visible scarring or artificial patterns.
If you’ve been searching “what are hair plugs” to understand your options, the next step is meeting with a specialist who can show you how far technology has come.
Schedule a Consultation with Concord
Explore modern hair restoration options with Concord in either our Los Angeles or San Diego office.