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Dr. Sternberg Written by Joana Published on 3 Apr 2023
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EXPERT GUIDE

How long does a hair transplant last?

Medihair Dr. Sternberg Thumb
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sternberg Written by Joana on 3 Apr 2023
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Hair transplant candidates often have questions about the results of the procedure and how long it can last. This guide explains the permanence of hair transplant procedures including the factors affecting it, post-surgery results, and more.

In a Nutshellsvg

Lifespan Long-term
Factors influencing lifespan Surgeon experience, Medication
How to preserve? Finasterid, Minoxidil etc.
Second hair transplant Sometimes necessary

Why is a hair transplant permanent?

Most people lose hair in the crown or hairline areas as hair follicles in those regions are sensitive to miniaturization caused by rising levels of DHT. During hair transplants, hair follicles are taken from the back and sides of the head. These donor areas comprise healthy follicles that are more resistant to the hormone. 

Once these healthy hair follicles are transplanted into the thinning or balding region, they retain their resistance to hair loss, contributing to results that can last a lifetime.

Emotional impact of a hair transplant on a patient

Can a hair transplant last only a short time?

Even if your hair fall continues after the surgery, a successful hair transplant procedure will not last for a short time. Due to the nature of healthy hair follicles, they will continue to produce at least some hair even as you grow older. 

Your hair transplant may be affected only under special circumstances such as injury or medical procedures. Otherwise, hair transplant will be a long-term or permanent solution to your hair loss problems.

What does your hair loss look like?

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Will the transplanted hairs fall out?

Around two to eight weeks after the hair transplant surgery, patients experience a ‘shedding phase’ or ‘shock loss.’ During this period, around 90% of the transplanted hair falls out. For many patients, this sudden hair loss is cause for concern but in reality, it is a normal part of the recovery process. 

As the newly implanted hair falls out, the grafts enter a resting stage after which they grow new hair with better hair density. 10% of the transplanted hair is expected to grow back within three months of the surgery. Full growth should be expected anywhere around 10 to 12 months after a hair transplant procedure.

Growth after hair transplantation

Factors affecting how permanent a hair transplant is

While hair transplants are considered to be permanent, their longevity depends on a number of different factors. These include:

  • Experience and Expertise of the Surgeon – Despite the advancement of modern hair transplant techniques, the procedure still needs to be performed by highly trained and experienced surgeons. Choosing the right hair doctor and clinic for your hair transplant is a major step in ensuring long-lasting results. An inexperienced doctor with inadequate facilities and staff can lead to unsatisfactory results and in the worst-case scenario, a botched hair transplant.
  • Age of the patient – Although the implanted hair follicles will continue to produce hair despite your age, growing older can change the look of your hair transplant. Since the natural hair around the transplanted region will be vulnerable to thinning over time, you might need a second transplant or other measures to slow down hair loss.
  • Chemotherapy – The newly implanted hair follicles will not be affected by male pattern baldness but other conditions, strong medication, or chemotherapy can lead to hair loss in these areas. 
  • Hormonal changes – Healthy hair follicles will continue to resist the changes in DHT hormone but other types of hormonal imbalances may lead to the thinning of hair in previously transplanted areas.
  • Trauma or injury – Injury or major trauma to the scalp can lead to scarring and damage of hair follicles. This may interfere with your hair transplant results as scar tissue usually leads to permanent hair loss.
  • Proper AfterCare – The permanence of your hair transplant also depends on the right post-op care. Your doctor should instruct you on how to take care of your hair transplant after the surgery. The weeks after the surgery can be especially critical. Using the wrong products or not following the doctor’s instructions can have long-term effects on your hair transplant.
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How can I preserve a hair transplant?

We have established that hair transplants can last a lifetime. However, they cannot stop active hair loss and your natural hair will continue to fall out as you age. In order to preserve the results from a hair transplant, your doctor might recommend oral or topical medication.

Some of the most popular medications to prevent hair loss and stimulate growth are Finasteride and Minoxidil. 

  • Finasteride works by inhibiting the reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. This lowers the levels of DHT in the body which is responsible for hair loss. Finasteride is an oral medication that is available through prescription only. 
  • Minoxidil was originally used for hypertension until its hair loss benefits were observed by patients. For hair loss, it is typically used as a topical solution under the name Regaine. It works by dilating blood vessels under the scalp to promote the supply of blood leading to hair growth.

These hair loss remedies can help you retain your natural hair and slow down hair loss to increase the longevity of hair transplant results.

Will I need a second hair transplant at some point?

As we mentioned before, age and other factors can lead to the thinning of natural hair and affect the long-term results of a hair transplant. 

One option is to take medication to prevent further hair loss. Alternatively, some people may choose to undergo a second hair transplant to recover their hair density. These follow-up hair transplants usually require a smaller number of grafts.

Summary

When performed by an experienced hair specialist under the right conditions, hair transplant procedures can last a lifetime. Since the tendency for hair loss lies in the follicles, healthy DHT-resistant follicles implanted in balding regions will produce new hair for a long time to come.

However, factors such as age, hormonal imbalances, injuries, and aftercare can have an impact on the permanence of your hair transplant. Active hair loss will continue and result in the thinning of your natural hair. To preserve the results and address other areas, your doctor may recommend medication or a second hair transplant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go bald again after a hair transplant?

Will I need another hair transplant in the future?

Is one hair transplant enough?

How many years does a hair transplant last?

Sources

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What does your hair loss look like?

Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW3Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW4Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW6My hair loss is different
Find DoctorFree & non-binding
  • Free
  • Fast
  • Non-binding
4.62/5
Medihair Ratings
Known from:
Medihair Forbes LogoMedihair Statista LogoMedihair Bloomberg Logo