However, younger people who are experiencing hair thinning or loss may also be good candidates for a hair transplant. Before recommending a hair transplant, the surgeon will consider several factors, such as the type and pattern of hair loss, the quality of the donor's hair, and the size of the balding area.
If you are in your 20s and experiencing hair loss, it is best to wait until your hair loss has stabilized before undergoing a hair transplant. This will give the doctor a better idea of the pattern of your hair loss and allow them to provide the most effective treatment. Men and women of all races can be good candidates for hair transplants.
Within two to three weeks after surgery, the transplanted hair will fall out, but you should start to see new growth within a few months. Most people will see 60% of their new hair grow after six to nine months. Some surgeons may prescribe minoxidil (Rogaine) to improve hair growth after transplantation, but its effectiveness is not clear.
Younger people who are concerned about hair loss can also undergo a preliminary transplant to increase their hairline density. If there are not enough grafts in the donor area during the transplant, grafts can be taken from other areas of the body. Volumizing shampoos can also help give you the appearance of thicker hair.
You may need another procedure later if you continue to lose hair or decide you want thicker hair. Hair loss in men occurs when dihydrotestosterone (DHT) attacks the follicles on the scalp, causing them to produce progressively smaller hairs until they shrink entirely and no longer produce any hair.
While it is understandable that young men come to us at such a vulnerable time in their lives, it is important to remember that a hair transplant may not be suitable for them at that time. Ultimately, it is best to wait until your rapid hair loss has decreased before considering a hair transplant.