9 Hair Transplant Facts and Myths
Hair transplantation is an aesthetic procedure that any woman or man experiencing hair loss might want to undergo. Although a hair transplant is essentially a simple surgical procedure consisting of 3 phases, like in any industry, it also has its nuances.
In this article, we will talk about some common misconceptions based on urban legends that may be in the minds of those considering a hair transplant, and the truths. So let’s begin.
1.1. FALSE: Hair transplantation is a painful process.
One of the most common misconceptions about hair transplantation is that it is a painful procedure. However, this information is incorrect. Hair transplantation is a painless process thanks to the local anesthesia administered before the procedure. Hair transplant surgery is basically based on 3 phases. These are the local anesthesia before the transplant, the extraction of hair follicles from the donor area, and the transplantation of the follicles into the recipient area.
In hair transplant procedures, both the donor and recipient areas are prepared for transplantation using local anesthesia. Thanks to the anesthesia administered to the patient prior to the procedure, the hair transplant process is painless and comfortable.
FALSE 2: Men in their 20s and 30s are too young for a hair transplant.
Contrary to popular belief, men in their 20s and 30s are not too young for a hair transplant. Most people think that a hair transplant should only be performed after hair loss has completely stopped. However, there is no need to wait for hair loss to slow down or stop in order to undergo a transplant.
On the contrary, hair transplantation is a procedure that should not be postponed until a very late age. Since the hair between the two ears, designated as the donor area, needs to be strong and healthy, it is more advantageous to have a transplant at a younger age. After 40, both hair thinning and the weakening of follicles in the donor area increase in men. Therefore, it’s very important not to delay a hair transplant until later years.
FALSE 3: Only men can have a hair transplant.
Hair loss is a problem that occurs more frequently in men, but it is also a health issue for women. Baldness or androgenetic alopecia in women can be caused by hormonal changes, menopause, thyroid problems, blood pressure medication, and birth control pills. In this respect, women can also apply to hair transplant clinics and get rid of the unhealthy appearance caused by hair loss and thinning.
4. FALSE: An artificial appearance occurs after a hair transplant.
Hair transplant procedures are always aimed at achieving a natural result. Transplanting the patient’s own hair follicles from donor areas is very effective in obtaining a natural result. Additionally, a more natural appearance is achieved by performing a dispersed transplant along the front hairline.
5. FALSE: There are no complications in hair transplantation
Hair transplantation is both a surgical and aesthetic procedure. Therefore, it cannot be said that there are no complications. Risks such as edema, swelling, scabbing, and infection may occur after a hair transplant. Infection is a possible risk with any surgical procedure involving incisions or punctures. However, the risk of infection can be minimized if the procedure is performed by an expert team that pays attention to detail and carries out the process correctly.
6. FALSE: Hair transplantation is done using someone else’s hair.
In the late 1970s, hair transplantation was performed using artificial hair fibers. Artificial hair transplantation or fiber hair transplants, which were impactful at the time of their discovery, were later critically reviewed in some countries due to post-operative complications. In 1983, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned artificial hair transplantation in Northern Europe. Later, several countries also banned this method within their own borders.
Today, hair transplant procedures involve transplanting hair follicles from the back of a person’s head — an area genetically resistant to hair loss — to the balding areas. Modern hair transplants do not use follicles from another person’s scalp or body. The patient’s own hair follicles are used.
Experts are studying whether transplants using someone else’s hair strands could be successful. However, to date, this type of transplant has not yielded successful results. Even if follicles from another person are transplanted, there’s a high risk the body will reject them over time, so this method is not currently effective.
7. FALSE: Hair can actually be regrown with medication, so I don’t need a transplant.
Hair medications are among the methods used by individuals experiencing hair loss to prevent further loss. There are 2 FDA-approved medications for this: Finasteride and Minoxidil. While these are effective in preventing hair loss and strengthening hair, they do not regenerate follicles that have already died.
Hair transplantation is an aesthetic solution specifically for men or women experiencing genetic hair loss. Since hair follicles cannot regenerate after genetic loss, transplantation in a professional clinic is a good option.
8. FALSE: I can restore my hairline to how it was in my youth
Hair loss in men usually starts in their 20s and continues intensively until their 40s. After 40, the process slows but still continues. If a patient becomes largely bald and not enough follicles remain in the donor area, the hairline may not be restored to its youthful state. In other words, patients with large bald areas should have realistic expectations regarding hair transplant procedures.
9. FALSE: Hair transplants can’t be done in summer.
Hair transplantation can be performed in all seasons with successful results. Claims that hair transplants cannot or should not be performed in summer still persist as urban legends. In reality, if you consult the right clinic and specialist, the process can be completed smoothly. There are, however, certain precautions to take during summer.
If you have a hair transplant in the summer, the treated area should not be exposed to direct sunlight for 1 month. Staying in the shade is recommended. Entering the sea or pool after a transplant is not advisable due to chlorine and salt content. Patients should avoid swimming in the sea or pool and keep the transplant area dry for the first 2 weeks. After two weeks, consult your doctor before swimming or getting the area wet.
