Debunking the myths of hair transplant

By Dr Sunil Kumar Prabhu, Consultant Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician, Aster RV Hospitals

Surge in the number of hair restoration procedures, rise in the occurrence of alopecia, increase in awareness among the population regarding physical appearance, and technological advancement in the hair transplant sector are at an all time high. However, there are many myths and fears surrounding the procedure of hair transplant. This article aims to debunk those myths.

Myth: Hair transplant results look unnatural

Fact: The results of a hair transplant procedure are very natural looking. A good surgeon will determine the location & the angle of the hair to make it look more natural. Even though hair texture may slightly vary the doctor picks the non-hormonal dependent hair from mainly the back of the scalp that will not meet the same fate of the androgen hormonal hair that was affected earlier so the procedure in one way ensures you are not prone for the problem again.

Myth: Hair Transplant surgery is very painful

Fact: Hair Transplant surgery is done under a local anesthesia. Patients can carry on with their day-to-day activities on the very same day.

Myth: Hair transplant doesn’t last long

Myth: The results of hair transplant procedures are almost permanent and long lasting.  One must be made aware the transplanted hair will initially start falling off after a month after hair transplant surgery. However, it is a natural occurrence and a temporary phase. New hair will start growing out of the grafts in the next 6 to 8 months.

Myth: Hair transplantation works only for men

Hair transplantation can be done both for males and females, however more than 80 % hair transplants occur in males due to a more progressive nature of baldness. Hair follicles from Donar area is chosen and by making small tiny incision the recipient area of the scalp. Done well it too has a good success rate. women’s hair balding is mainly in the front and top of head and it may not be completely bald like in men but small streaks of hair may still remain.

Hair transplant is an expensive process

Most people assume that hair transplant is only affordable to rich people and celebrities. However, procedures such as follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE) are not expensive procedures.  Also, it is important to note that the cost of hair transplant procedures is often a one-off cost as the results are near permanent. So, it is safe to say Hair Transplants are cost-effective options.