A thinning hairline is usually a cause for concern for most people. And while several hair loss treatments are available, hair restoration is often the best solution. We might also add that such transplants don’t come cheap. So, while VIC hair transplantation specialists do a great job, you might want to know how long hair transplants last to see if you’re getting your money’s worth, right?
Typically, a hair transplant involves the removal of hair follicles from one part of the body – the donor site – and relocation of them to a bald or balding part – the recipient site. For many, the procedure can help bring back what looks like a full head of hair.
Hair transplants can last a lifetime. In short, they offer a permanent solution to hair loss. The transplanted hair follicles will continue to grow new hair for the rest of your life. That said, here are a few aspects to ponder, including how they affect the procedure’s success.
Variables Impacting Outcome
The outcome of a transplant depends on various factors. Here’s a quick breakdown of a few of these variables:
- Lifestyle choices: If you’re a smoker, you’re at a higher risk of experiencing complications post-surgery. Smoking can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the scalp. This, in turn, can impact the healing process and the growth of new hair follicles.
- Health: Your health also factors into the equation. A hair transplant may not work if you have a medical condition that affects your hair growth, such as alopecia areata. A history of scarring from previous surgeries may also affect the success rate.
- Age: Younger people have healthier hair follicles, which can result in a more successful transplant. Additionally, you may fair better than your older counterpart in case of future procedures if you need them. Thus, age can impact overall outcomes.
Initial Consultation is Key
It’s also worth noting that hair loss is a progressive condition. So, even if you undergo a successful transplant, you might still experience hair loss in the future. This explains why it’s vital to consult your hair transplantation specialist to see if you’re a prime candidate for the procedure. Plus, they can determine the ideal course of treatment for your condition.
An initial assessment allows your doctor to assess the root cause of hair loss. For instance, most cases of hair loss in men are due to male pattern hair loss.
If a different condition is responsible for your hair loss, a hair transplant procedure may not be ideal, as the hair may not grow as expected. Thus, depending on the results of a consultation, your physician might recommend other hair loss treatments such as medication, PRP therapy, or a second hair transplant.
Long-Term Expectations
Most likely, your hair follicles will also age as you grow older following a hair transplant. This can lead to the thinning of transplanted hair. Fortunately, this is a gradual process, and you can take measures to keep your hair healthy and delay the aging process of hair follicles. For instance, you might need to take finasteride or minoxidil for the rest of your life. These medications help preserve the transplanted hair and prevent further hair loss.
But that doesn’t mean your follicles won’t produce some hair – typically, they will keep doing their work, albeit at a slower pace. And in the unlikely event that your hairline keeps receding, it won’t occur at the same pace as it did before the transplant. Discuss with your healthcare provider a care plan that ensures your hair retains its appearance post-procedure for years to come.
Plus, take good care of your scalp and avoid habits that can lead to hair loss. For instance, avoid wearing tight hats, using hot styling tools too often, and subjecting your hair to harsh chemicals.
Be Realistic
Although hair transplantation produces life-long results, be realistic about your expectations. The results of a hair transplant will not be immediately visible. That implies you may have to wait between 6 and 12 months for new hair growth.
Still, it takes time for the transplanted hair to adjust to its new location and begin growing at its normal rate. In most cases, it takes 12 to 18 months for the final results of a hair transplant to be visible. In short, don’t expect overnight results.
Also, not all hair follicles will survive the transplantation process, meaning you might need a second procedure to achieve desired results. Additionally, the new hair might be slightly different in texture and thickness compared to your original hair.
All things considered, some factors affecting hair growth are beyond your control. The idea is to work with your doctor to determine the best course of action for you, whether that means a hair transplant or another option.
