Hair transplantation is a popular and effective way to restore hair in areas that have experienced thinning or balding. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about this procedure that may prevent people from considering it as an option. In this blog article, we will dismantle some of the most common myths and answer some of the frequently asked questions about hair transplantation.

Myth 1: Hair transplantation is only for men

Fact: Hair transplantation is not gender specific. Both men and women can benefit from hair transplantation if they have suitable donor areas and realistic expectations. Hair transplantation can treat male and female pattern baldness as well as other causes of hair loss such as trauma, burns, or disease. However, some women may not be good candidates for hair transplantation if they have diffuse thinning or low density in the donor area.

Myth 2: Hair transplant results are temporary

Fact: The results of hair transplantation are permanent. The transplanted hair follicles are taken from the back or side of the scalp, which are resistant to the hormone that causes hair loss (DHT). Therefore, they will continue to grow normally in the recipient area for the rest of the patient's life. However, hair transplantation does not stop the progression of hair loss in nontransplanted areas, so some patients may need additional sessions or medication to maintain the desired appearance.

Myth 3: Hair transplantation is only for young people

Fact: Hair transplantation can be performed on anyone between the ages of 25 and 70, depending on the individual case. Age is not a limiting factor for hair transplantation, provided the patient has enough donor hair and good health. In fact, older patients may have more stable hair loss patterns and more realistic expectations than younger patients. However, young patients in their early 20s may not be advised to undergo hair transplantation if their hair loss is still progressing or unpredictable.

Myth 4: Hair transplant can use someone else's hair

Fact: Hair transplantation can only use the patient's own hair. Using someone else's hair would cause rejection and infection, as the body would recognize it as a foreign body. There is no hair bank or donor pool for hair transplantation. The only exception is when identical twins with the same genetic makeup donate hair to each other.

Myth 5: Hair transplant results are immediate

Fact: Hair transplant results take time to show themselves. After the procedure, the transplanted hair will go through a falling out phase, which is normal and expected. This means that new hair will fall out within the first few weeks, but the follicles will remain intact and begin producing new hair after three to four months. The final results of hair transplantation can be seen after a year or more, when the transplanted hair has reached its full length and thickness.