You will be able to see the shape of your enhanced hairline as soon as your doctor has finished the hair transplant procedure. After your transplant, hair should begin to grow swiftly.
After first growth, hair loss and shedding are common frustrations for patients. This initial crop of transplanted hair should regrow permanently when it falls out.
In this article, we have discussed hair transplant longevity factors, long-term results, and maintenance.
Factors Influencing Longevity
The longevity of a hair transplant can be influenced by various factors, such as scalp laxity, hair pattern, density, and curly hair.
Besides, Age plays a significant role, as hair naturally changes with time, and hair loss patterns can be influenced by genetic factors and hormones.
Additionally, a family history of hair loss can indicate a higher probability of experiencing hair loss. Certain medical conditions and medications can also affect the success and longevity of a hair transplant, as they may impact overall health, wound healing, and blood clotting.
Finally, the availability of an adequate donor hair supply is essential for achieving satisfactory and long-lasting results.
Age
Age is an important factor that can influence the longevity of a hair transplant. Hair is made up of protein strands and has a normal life cycle of 2 to 7 years.
As people age, the hair falls out and is replaced with new hair. However, the number of hairs produced is determined by your genes.
Hair loss with aging is not experienced by everyone, but for those who do experience it, hair growth varies. The thick, coarse hair of a young adult eventually becomes thin, brittle, and light-colored with age.
As individuals age, hair follicles may stop producing new hairs, leading to signs of baldness. Men, in particular, may experience male pattern baldness, which is related to the normal function of the male hormone testosterone.
This baldness typically occurs at the temples or the top of the head. Women can also develop a similar type of baldness known as female pattern baldness, where the hair becomes less dense, and the scalp may become visible.
Hair Loss Family History
The probability of experiencing male pattern hair loss is often dependent on family history and age. This type of hair loss is commonly linked to the maternal grandfather and father’s hair loss patterns.
If there is a strong family history of baldness, it may indicate a higher likelihood of experiencing hair loss and can influence the longevity of a hair transplant.
Medical Conditions and Certain Medications
Certain medical conditions and medications can affect the success and longevity of a hair transplant. Conditions such as chronic stress, anxiety, boredom, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can impact overall health and hair growth.
For example, diabetic patients who are not responding well to their given treatments may have impaired wound healing and blood clotting abilities, which can make them unsuitable candidates for a hair transplant.
Stable blood sugar levels and consultation with a healthcare professional are necessary before considering the procedure.
Additionally, some medications, particularly blood-thinning medications used for cardiovascular diseases, can be dangerous after surgery as they may cause increased bleeding.
Individuals taking such medications may not be ideal candidates for a hair transplant. Similarly, individuals with high blood pressure may also face limitations in undergoing the procedure.
Donor Hair Supply
The availability of an adequate donor hair supply is crucial for a successful hair transplant and its longevity. Donor’s hair refers to the hair follicles that are harvested from the back or sides of the scalp and transplanted to the balding areas.
It is important to have enough donor hair to effectively cover the bald spots and achieve natural-looking results. If the donor hair supply is limited, it may affect the overall outcome and longevity of the transplant.
The Average Lifespan Of A Hair Transplant
For those who are experiencing hair loss, hair transplantation is typically a successful surgery. A hair transplant’s success percentage varies, however, patients generally give the procedure an 8.3 out of 10 satisfaction rating.
However, a number of variables, including the patient’s diet and hair upkeep following the treatment, might affect a hair transplant’s success rate.
A permanent remedy for hair loss may be a hair transplant. To fully appreciate the effects of a hair transplant treatment, it often takes around a year. Before the hair can begin to grow after the surgery, the graft or flap must heal.
To get the best effects, a “touch-up” may occasionally be required, however, this will depend on the individual. A hair transplant can endure for many years with accurate upkeep, giving individuals who receive it a head of hair that looks natural.
Patients can anticipate seeing benefits from hair transplant surgery six to nine months after the treatment. The timeframe varies from patient to patient, and it could take longer for some people to detect changes than others.
The transplanted hair will typically fall out in the first 6 to 8 weeks as a result of shock, but it will then start to grow back and progressively get longer. However, the hair may initially appear odd and unruly.
Patients should have patience because it may take up to a year for the full effects of the hair transplant operation to show, and for some people, it may take up to 18 months.
In addition, transplanted hair longevity is entirely dependent on the recipient area influence of various patients.
How To Maintain Results
After undergoing a hair transplant surgery, it is crucial to follow certain post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and maintain the results. Here are some key points to consider:
Avoid direct sunlight and vigorously handle your scalp
Protecting your scalp from direct sunlight is essential as it can lead to sunburn and damage the delicate healing tissues. Additionally, avoid any vigorous handling or rubbing of the scalp, as this can disrupt the grafts and hinder healing.
You can check this video to understand how sunlight damages the hair follicles:
Use the physician’s recommended shampoo and lotion
Your physician will provide specific instructions regarding the shampoo and lotion to use after the surgery. It is essential to follow their recommendations as these products are specifically formulated to promote healing and protect the transplanted hair.
Use a soft towel and pat the recipient’s area.
When drying your hair or the recipient area, use a soft towel and gently pat the zone instead of rubbing it vigorously. It will help prevent trauma to the grafts and reduce the risk of dislodging them.
Be cautious of head sweating.
Excessive sweating can be detrimental to the hair follicles, especially during the initial healing period. Avoid activities that can cause excessive sweating, such as intense physical exercise or spending time in hot and humid environments.
Opt for a cold setting and take measures to keep your scalp dry. You can check this video to understand why sweating is a big “No” after a hair transplant.
Consider PRP therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a popular remedy after hair transplant surgery. It involves using your blood to extract growth factors and proteins that promote cellular growth and hair follicle proliferation.
PRP therapy is known for its hair growth abilities and can help achieve denser hair after a hair transplant.
Focus on recommended nutrition.
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in the success of a hair transplantation process. Increase your intake of protein-rich foods, which are essential for hair growth and repair.
Include fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E. A balanced diet that includes antioxidants, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and biotin is also beneficial for hair growth and controlling hair loss.
Green tea, rich in effective antioxidants, can also support healthy hair follicles. Remember that the quality of your blood affects the healing process, as vitamins and nutrients are carried through the blood to nourish the grafts. Avoid overeating and stick to a well-balanced diet.
Foods to avoid after surgery
Pay attention to your food choices after hair transplant surgery. Avoid grains and wheat-derived foods for about 15 days, as they can potentially irritate the scalp.
Animal foods, milk, fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, probiotics), and pickles should be minimized during the initial healing period.
Animal oils can contribute to acne, so it’s advisable to limit their consumption. Additionally, processed foods, cigarettes, alcohol, hookahs, and recreational substances should be avoided as they can harm the healing process.
Stay away from tea and caffeine-containing beverages for at least three days post-surgery, and avoid processed foods and sugary beverages as well.
Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals
Several B vitamins are crucial for hair health. Vitamin B nourishes the hair roots and facilitates the hair growth process. Include foods rich in B vitamins, such as whole grains, legumes, eggs, milk, red meat, poultry, dark green leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach), bananas, avocados, and citrus fruits (oranges, lemons).
B2 improves hair quality by enhancing blood circulation to the scalp. B3 protects hair color, while B5 prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of hair. B6 is foremost for scalp nutrition and cell renewal.
B7 (biotin) reduces inflammation and delays graying of hair. B9 (folic acid) promotes rapid hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles, and B12 supports overall hair growth.
Maintain scalp hydration
Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining a healthy scalp and promoting hair growth. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily and ensure you stay properly hydrated throughout the day.
Follow the recommended hair wash procedure.
Your physician will provide instructions on when and how to wash your hair after the transplant. Typically, hair washing starts the day after the surgery. Gently dry off the hair with a towel and use a cool setting while blow-drying.
Avoid scratching, bumping, or rubbing the grafted hair to prevent graft loss. In the first 48 hours, it’s advised to avoid shampooing, but soaking the scalp can help prevent crust formation.
When you start shampooing, use a mild, hypoallergenic formula recommended by your physician.
Consider prescribed medications
Your doctor may prescribe medications such as minoxidil and finasteride (Propecia) to enhance the results of the hair transplant.
Minoxidil is a topical drug applied directly to the scalp to promote hair growth. It is often used following a hair transplant surgery.
Finasteride is an oral medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is responsible for hair loss. Finasteride has been shown to improve hair regrowth and prevent further hair loss.
