There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding hair transplants that get brought up any time the subject arises. Many of these myths are outdated or incorrect assumptions about how the different processes work and their results. Let us look at some common hair restoration myths and clear up what they do not tell you about hair transplants.
Top 3 Common Hair Transplant Misconceptions
Is Hair Restoration Possible?
The biggest myth is, of course, does it work? Some people believe that once it is gone, it has gone forever and it will never look or feel the same again. While it is true a hair transplant does not create new follicles, the procedure does relocate healthy follicles from donor areas (typically from the back of the scalp) to balding areas. Those transplanted hairs then continue to grow naturally.
There is another misunderstanding that this procedure is only for men, but hair transplants are for anyone – and women currently make up 12% of the market according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Specialists (ISHRS). Hair loss is something that eventually affects most people as they age, even if some people are genetically predisposed to lose their hair earlier than others.
Some people also think the procedure is exceptionally painful, but your doctor will provide you with a local anesthesia to numb you before the procedure to minimize pain. After the procedure, your scalp will be tender for a few days, but most people are fine with over the counter (OTC) painkillers. Many return to work within 2-5 days after their operation.
Does Hair Restoration Last Forever?
An interesting fact is the healthy follicles come from donor areas that are generally resistant to balding. It should be noted that patients, over the enduring passage of time, may still experience natural hair loss due to aging.
Another myth is the cost. Many people believe hair transplants are only for the wealthy and need constant and ongoing treatments to maintain. Though not an inexpensive procedure, modern procedures have made hair transplants much more accessible. A transplant is a long-term investment in yourself.
Does Hair Restoration Look Natural?
Modern techniques have come a long way from the obvious hair plugs of the past. This image stems mostly from plot points from old sitcoms where someone’s hair transplant was made the butt of the joke for an episode. Today’s techniques, whether Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), create natural-looking results by placing hair follicles in realistic patterns that match a person’s natural hair growth.
Another myth people worry about is that everyone will notice! The ISHRS conducted an online challenge where people were asked to select the person who had had a hair transplant from among a series of photographs consisting of men and women. More than 65% of survey respondents were not able to correctly identify the male hair transplant recipient and more than 85% could not identify the female transplant recipient.
Rothesay Laser & Hair Clinic Is Your Trusted Source for Hair Restoration
Whether you are experiencing allover shedding, a receding hairline, or patchy hair loss, we can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your hair loss and formulate a plan to address it. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation; we look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve the hairline you desire.
