What are the risks associated with hair transplantation?
Fortunately, complications from hair transplantation are infrequent. Every year, thousands of people undergo successful hair restoration and are pleased with the results. You should discuss the risks and potential complications with your aesthetic plastic surgeon during your consultation.
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Some of the potential complications of all surgeries are:
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
- Infection and bleeding
- Changes in sensation
- Scarring
- Allergic reactions
- Damage to underlying structures
- Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures
Other risks specific to hair transplantation are:
- The hair follicles may become inflamed or infected.
- Some patients experience what's known as "shock loss," which causes all of the transplanted hair to fall out at once. However, it's very unlikely this hair loss is permanent and new hair will typically grow in its place.
You can help minimize hair transplantation risks by following your board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon’s advice and instructions before and after your procedure.