Surgeons performed more than 700,000 hair transplants in 2021, according to estimates from the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS). While hair restoration is relatively common, you should determine whether a transplant is right for you. Learn more below. 

What Is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant involves moving hair, typically from the scalp, to areas that are balding or thinning. This surgical technique can restore hair on the scalp, eyebrows, beard, and mustache. A transplant normally takes around four to eight hours and could require multiple sessions. A surgeon might use local anesthesia and intravenous sedation to eliminate discomfort during the procedure. 

The goal of hair restoration is to use your hair follicles to stimulate hair growth. Although a transplant is not cheap, it can replace expensive treatments you use to grow hair in thinning or balding areas, saving you money over time. 

Are You a Good Candidate for a Transplant?

This surgery can be effective if you experience mild to moderate hair loss. Typically, men and women with pattern baldness are good candidates for a hair transplant because these conditions are permanent and irreversible. You might also want to invest in a transplant if you have hair loss from scarring or scalp injuries. 

A transplant will be more successful if you have lots of hair in your "donor site"— the area from which a surgeon removes hair before placing it on the part of your body that is thinning or balding. A surgeon will determine whether you have enough donor hair during your consultation. 

Hair Transplant Suitability Checklist

Consider the following factors when deciding whether you are the right candidate for hair restoration surgery:

Type of Hair Loss

If you suffer from pattern baldness, you might be a good candidate for a transplant. People with other types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata, which causes bald patches, might not be suitable. 

Medical Conditions 

Certain medical conditions, such as psychological disorders, can make someone an unsuitable candidate for a hair transplant. 

Age

Most people have a transplant after the age of 30. Those younger might want to experiment with alternative treatments like medications to stabilize hair loss before surgery. 

Cost 

Hair transplants cost anywhere from $3,000–15,000, according to GoodRX.com. However, this surgery might provide value for money if it improves your self-confidence and reduces anxiety brought on by hair loss. 

Whether or not you are a good candidate for a hair transplant, you might want to consider non-surgical options such as a hair system — a natural-looking hairpiece or wig that covers balding areas. 

Final Word

Do your research before having a hair transplant, and talk to your doctor about whether you are a good candidate for this surgical procedure. Weigh the pros and cons of hair restoration and understand the benefits and risks of surgery. 

If you're trying to make an informed decision about hair transplants, contact New-U today. To schedule a free consultation, click here.

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