What to Know Before a Hair Transplant
People typically view hair transplantation as an extreme procedure. However, today’s advanced techniques deliver subtle, natural-looking results through minimally invasive techniques.
Before you commit, here's a guide on what to know before a hair transplant procedure, including questions to ask your hair transplant surgeon.
A future with a fuller head of hair requires a well-informed present. Use our online assessment form for a personalised hair transplantation quote from Dr Bonaros.
Reviewed by Dr Epameinondas Bonaros
Table of Contents
Expert Hair Transplant Advice
One of the most important things to consider before a hair transplant is your expectations. You need to have a realistic understanding of what the procedure can achieve.
While a transplant can significantly improve hair density and restore your hairline, it won’t necessarily give you the same hair you had in your teens. At Dr Bonaros’ Clinic, we take time to discuss your goals and the most appropriate solutions.
Find reliable help and guidance for hair transplant patients below.
Minoxidil is a medication commonly used to treat hair thinning and balding. Originally developed in the 1970s to manage high blood pressure, minoxidil’s ability to rejuvenate hair follicles and stimulate hair growth was discovered as a notable side effect.
This led to the development of topical minoxidil, under the brand name Rogaine. Topical minoxidil is FDA-approved as a hair loss treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern baldness. Today, minoxidil is available in both topical and oral forms and is used to treat a variety of hair disorders.
Is a Hair Transplant Right for You?
Hair transplant surgery can be an effective solution for many people experiencing advanced hair loss, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Understanding whether you’re a good candidate requires carefully considering your situation and medical history.
Who Benefits Most from Hair Transplants?
Hair transplants work best for individuals experiencing androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern hair loss and male pattern baldness. It is the most common form of permanent, hereditary hair loss.
This type of hair loss follows a predictable pattern and often responds well to hair transplant procedures like the follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplant. Donor hair is typically taken from the back and sides of the head. This hair is genetically resistant to the hormones that cause hair loss.
When Hair Transplants Are Not Recommended
Hair transplants are usually not recommended for people with certain conditions.
- Alopecia areata: This autoimmune condition causes sudden, patchy hair loss. Transplants may not be effective, as the underlying condition could also affect the transplanted hair.
- Temporary hair loss: Those experiencing hair loss from stress, medications or nutritional deficiencies should address these root causes before considering surgery.
- Active scalp conditions: Certain skin disorders or infections must be resolved before transplant procedures can be considered.
Key Factors for Candidacy
Several essential factors influence whether you’re a good candidate for a transplant procedure.
- Sufficient donor hair: You need adequate healthy hair follicles in donor areas (typically the back and sides of the head).
- Stable hair loss pattern: Most medical practitioners prefer to wait until hair loss has stabilised through the use of medications before considering surgical intervention. As a general guideline, they are cautious about operating on patients under the age of 25.
- Realistic expectations: It’s important to consider both the potential benefits and limitations of the procedure.
- Good overall health: Are you physically and mentally prepared for the surgical process and recovery?
Questions To Ask Before a Hair Transplant
Approach your initial hair transplant consultation as a fact-finding mission. This is your chance to gather personalised information, assess the clinic’s expertise and determine if the surgeon is the right fit for your case.
Come prepared with these questions.
About the surgeon's qualifications
- How long have you been doing hair transplants?
- Are you certified by organisations like the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS)? If not, why?
- Can I see before-and-after photos or past case studies similar to mine?
- How many of these procedures do you do each month?
About the procedure
- For my situation, would you recommend FUE, FUT or something else? Why?
- What kind of results should I realistically expect?
- How many hair grafts will I need, and where will you place them?
- Will you be handling the entire procedure yourself?
- How long will I be in the chair?
- What kind of anaesthesia will you use?
About recovery and results
- What’s the real recovery like? When can I go back to work?
- When will I start to see results, and when will my hair look its best?
- Might I need more procedures down the road?
- What percentage of the transplanted hair typically takes root?
About potential complications
- What could go wrong with the transplanted hair follicles, and how often does it happen?
- How do you handle situations when patients aren’t happy with their results?
About costs and aftercare
- What’s the bottom-line cost of a hair transplant?
- Does that price cover follow-up visits?
- What will I do at home to care for my scalp and new hair?
- Are there any hidden costs I should know about?
- Who covers corrective treatment and associated costs?
Choosing a Clinic & Surgeon
Selecting an experienced, qualified surgeon and a reputable clinic is critical for a successful hair transplant.
- If you are considering a hair transplant in the United Kingdom, ensure that the clinic or hospital is registered with the appropriate regulatory body. Confirm with Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) if you are in Scotland, or the Care Quality Commission (CQC) if you are in England or Wales. All independent facilities providing cosmetic surgery in the UK must be CQC registered, including those performing hair transplant surgery.
- Be cautious of offers and promotions that mislead patients into making decisions based on price rather than quality and safety. These promotions may pressure individuals to undergo procedures without fully understanding the risks and benefits. Additionally, discounts can lead to practitioners cutting corners or utilising less qualified staff, ultimately putting patient safety and satisfaction at risk. Choose based on the surgeon’s expertise rather than by financial incentives.
- Confirm that your chosen surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and holds a licence to practise.
- You can confirm on the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery (BAHRS) website whether the surgeon is a full or affiliate member.
More Resources on Transplant Surgery
For more detailed information and advice, you can consult the following resources:
- British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery (BAHRS)
- British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
- International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS)
- Royal College of Surgeons’ guidelines on cosmetic surgery
- NHS guidance on cosmetic surgery abroad
- BAPRAS advice on cosmetic surgery abroad
Dr Bonaros is a full member of ISHRS and BAHRS. Get in touch to find out more.
FAQs About Hair Transplant Procedures
We understand that considering hair transplant surgery can raise many questions. At the Dr. Bonaros Clinic, we’re always available to provide clarity. Take a moment to read through our patients’ most frequently asked questions.
What should you not do before a hair transplant?
In preparation for your hair transplantation, following your doctor’s pre-operative instructions carefully is vital.
In terms of lifestyle changes, stay away from smoking and alcohol. Avoiding all blood thinners a week before the hair transplant is advisable. This includes but is not limited to:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Omega 3s
- Garlic
- Turmeric supplements
What are the potential complications of a FUE procedure?
While FUE hair transplants are generally safe, potential complications can occur. These are some of the possible risks.
Common Concerns
- Rare reactions to local anaesthetics or medications can cause allergic reactions such as severe rashes or swelling. Always inform your surgeon of known allergies.
- The risk of infection is low but possible at donor or recipient sites. Keep grafts clean and avoid touching your scalp.
- Rare permanent nerve damage may cause severe pain in treated areas.
Aesthetic Issues
- Over-harvesting can create visible thinning areas in donor regions.
- Poor technique may result in irregular new growth or unnatural hairlines.
- Cysts can form when trapped follicles form fluid-filled sacs, usually resolving naturally.
- Keloid scarring is irregular but may develop in predisposed hair transplant patients.
Choose an experienced surgeon and follow all care instructions. We advise thoroughly discussing your medical history and expectations to minimise risks and achieve optimal outcomes.
What alternative treatments are available to hair transplant surgery?
Hair transplants are not a viable option for everyone, and many try other methods to stop hair loss first.
The Dr Bonaros Clinic offers various alternatives to surgical hair restoration, including:
- Hair Loss Medication: Prescription medications such as minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride (off-label) are available in oral and topical forms.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Treatment: PRP therapy utilises a concentration of the patient’s own platelets, extracted from their blood, to stimulate hair growth. It helps heal tissue as well as strengthen and encourage new development in existing hair follicles.
The roots of success begin with knowledge.
Reach out to our team for more resources on surgical hair restoration and alternative treatments at 01413409098.
Dr. Bonaros: Glasgow’s Transformative Hair Transplant Surgeon
Hair thinning can impact more than just your appearance; it often affects how you feel about yourself. Our dedicated team understands this deeply and is committed to helping you achieve results that restore your hair and confidence.
At the Dr Bonaros hair transplant clinic, we’ve built our practice around attentive, personalised care complemented by breakthrough hair restoration technology. We provide sophisticated transplant solutions and effective non-surgical options thoughtfully designed for androgenetic alopecia and other hair loss challenges.
Outstanding Expertise in Hair Restoration
Dr. Bonaros holds the distinction of being the only practitioner in Scotland with active membership in the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. His credentials are further strengthened by full membership in the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery.
As a certified Diplomate of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, the sole recognised certification in this specialised field, Dr. Bonaros demonstrates exceptional commitment to mastery and patient outcomes.
With a better understanding of what to know before a hair transplant surgery, you’re one step closer to achieving natural-looking results.
Take the next one by scheduling your private Zoom consultation with Dr Bonaros today.