Hair loss is a common problem affecting millions of men and women worldwide. Fortunately, overcoming this issue is now within reach due to advancements in hair transplant procedures. In 2019 alone, the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) reported approximately 182,000 hair transplant procedures performed in North America.
While these procedures often yield impressive results, there are instances where they may not be successful. I’ve consulted thousands of patients and have seen the results from “the cheap guy” advertising low prices and cutting corners. This forces the customer to keep coming back for “repairs” and is charged a fee each time. Companies who practice these shortcuts usually do not last very long. Here are some reasons why hair restorations fail.
Inexperienced Surgeon
Hair transplant surgery is intricate and should be entrusted only to experienced and certified professionals. Modern techniques like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) require a high degree of skill. Both methods necessitate selecting suitable grafts and maintaining them in optimal condition. An inexperienced surgeon may not be detail-oriented, leading to poor graft survival, unnatural hair growth patterns, or even damage to the scalp.
Additionally, the surgeon must be adept at determining the right donor-recipient ratio for the best results. When choosing a hair specialist, prioritize their level of experience and expertise. It’s the single smartest move you can make when taking the journey.
Unsuitable Candidates and Expectations
Despite the advancements in hair transplant technology, it’s not suitable for everyone. Before surgery, your doctor will conduct a thorough examination, considering your medical history, hair loss classification, and the cause of hair loss. If stress is the root cause, a hair transplant might not be necessary.
Another critical factor is the availability of donor hair. The hair follicles transplanted from donor areas may not regrow, making the procedure ineffective if insufficient donor hair is available. Similarly, those with Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune disorder causing sudden hair loss in patches, might not benefit from a transplant. Exploring alternative treatments is advisable if you are not an ideal candidate. Dr. Williams will discuss these alternate options during the consultation.
Unrealistic expectations, improper planning, or miscommunication between the patient and the doctor can lead to dissatisfaction with the results. A comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s hair loss pattern, donor area, and realistic outcomes is essential.
Poor Post-Operative Care
The success of a hair transplant depends on both the surgeon and the patient. After the surgery, it’s crucial for patients to follow post-operative care instructions diligently. Proper care during the initial weeks is vital for the best outcome. Here are some essential post-care guidelines that your doctor may have you follow:
- Maintain proper hygiene to prevent infections, using sterile saline solution on scars.
- Apply ointment to the donor site to keep it moisturized.
- Sleep with your head elevated at 45 degrees for the first few nights to reduce swelling.
- Take pain medication as prescribed to manage discomfort.
- If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure to the area for 15 minutes and contact your doctor if it persists.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and strenuous activities for at least a week.
- When showering, gently rinse your head with a cup to avoid direct water pressure on the wounds and comb carefully to prevent dislodging grafts.
These instructions are designed to promote healing and ensure the best possible results, lessening the odds of graft dislodgement, and ultimately, transplant failure. Follow the doctor’s instructions closely to maximize the success of your transplant, even if they differ from the general suggestions above.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can affect the success of a hair transplant. For instance, Alopecia areata (mentioned above) is due to destruction of the hair follicles by our immune system, while androgenic alopecia (common baldness) is due to changes in the life cycle of the hair as a result of hormones that act on hair follicles genetically predisposed to baldness. So a transplant would not be recommended in the former case.
Other conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or chronic scalp infections, can impede healing and graft survival. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to identify and manage any underlying conditions before proceeding with the transplant.
So Is It For Me?
While hair transplant procedures can offer remarkable results, understanding the potential pitfalls is crucial for success. Choosing an experienced surgeon, adhering to post-operative care, setting realistic expectations, ensuring sufficient donor hair, and addressing underlying medical conditions are all key factors in achieving a successful hair transplant. Schedule a Consultation today to see for yourself if this is right for you.
