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Hair Restoration Vs Hair Replacement - What’s The Best Choice?

Hair loss affects millions if not billions of people around the world and androgenic alopecia (genetic hair loss) is the most common form of hair loss worldwide. While some forms of hair loss like telogen effluvium (shock loss) are temporary and resolve within a few months, androgenetic alopecia is a permanent condition that spreads and progresses if left untreated. Unfortunately, not every hair loss sufferer is a candidate for surgical hair restoration. In this article, we will be going over the pros and cons of hair restoration vs hair replacement and vice versa.

Pros and Cons For Hair Transplant Surgery

When done right, hair transplants today largely go unnoticed by the general population because they appear so natural. The hair grows just as any other hair would on their head and the transplanted hairs are virtually indistinguishable from any other hair. The individual can cut it, dye it, pull it and go swimming without fear. In addition, the hair color, texture and appearance does not need to be matched because it is the individuals own hair. Sadly, hair restoration surgery is not a suitable solution for every hair loss experiencing man and woman. Hair transplantation relies on the hair located on the back and sides of the scalp which are genetically resistant to the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the hormone responsible for triggering genetic hair loss. However, some individuals may have severe thinning hair, so severe that they may not have enough donor supply to meet their expectations or goals. In these instances, other hair loss solutions should be explored.

Pros and Cons of Hair Replacement System

Unfortunately, there is a negative stigma associated with hair systems or “prosthetics” and no matter what fancy term hair loss sufferers use, the general public will always think of it as just a “wig”. Sadly, this is the reality that many men and women face every day. Society is more accepting of woman using hair weaves or wigs, but men are still looked down upon and generally regarded as vain if they wear a hair replacement system. While many hair replacement systems look completely natural they still require a lot of maintenance and upkeep to maintain their appearance. This can become costly for many individuals looking for a more cost-effective solution to hair loss. Many hair loss sufferers prefer a hair replacement system over hair transplant surgery because hair systems are instantaneous and guaranteed. Sadly, hair restoration surgery can take up to 18 months for the results to fully manifest and no surgical procedure can ever be guaranteed. Additionally, hair replacement systems can be as aggressive or conservative as the individual desires and there are no physical limitations.

Alternatively, hair transplantation depends on the individual’s level of hair loss, donor density and hair characteristics to achieve an acceptable result.

Conclusion

Today, many hair loss sufferers would agree that they would rather restore their hair surgically then wear a strangers hair. However, for the reasons previously mentioned not every individual is a suitable candidate for hair transplant surgery. There is no right answer and the choice really comes down to personal preference. Many find solace in speaking about their hair loss and venting with others like them around the world. This is why hair loss forums have become so popular over the past decade. Hair loss forums are great way to research different surgeons, treatments and ultimately find the appropriate hair loss solution. You can ask your own questions or participate on any topic you find interesting.