Second Hair Transplant

Why need a Second Hair Transplant?

A number of reasons can push individuals to adopt a second hair transplant surgery. The major reason is dissatisfaction with transplant results of the initial procedure.

Here are some common reasons why someone may need a 2nd hair transplant:

• Continued Hair Loss: Hair loss can continue even after a hair transplant. A second procedure can help address further hair loss and maintain the results of the initial transplant.
• Unsatisfactory Results: The initial hair transplant may not have met expectations, whether due to poor grafts placement, inadequate density, or other factors.
• Further Thinning or Balding: Even with a successful initial hair transplant, further thinning or balding can occur over time. A second procedure can help maintain a fuller head of hair.
• Repairing Previous Transplant Scars: A second hair transplant can also help to repair scars from previous hair restoration procedures.
• Addressing Crown Area Hair Loss: Hair loss in the temporal or crown areas is challenging to address with a single procedure.
• Technology Advancements: Newer technologies or techniques may have become available since the initial procedure, making a second hair transplant a viable option for achieving better results.

When Should You Get A Second Hair Transplant?

Timeline is of utmost importance when deciding about a second hair transplant. Generally, experts recommend waiting at least 12 to 18 months post op. first transplant. This will provide ample time for the first surgery to show results.

Your hair care team may also suggest you take non-surgical hair loss treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride. However, these too may work out.

Moreover, if either your FUT or FUE procedure fails, you can consider an early second transplant after consulting your surgeon.

See Also: How To Hide A Hair Transplant

How Does The Second Hair Transplant Surgery Work?

If you require an extensive transplant exceeding 7,000 grafts and meet the necessary criteria, your surgeon may plan your second procedure simultaneously with the first. However, this is not a common practice.

Here is an overview of the second hair transplant:

1. Consultation: A thorough consultation with a hair restoration specialist to discuss goals, expectations, and the best course of treatment. You also need to discuss the results of the initial hair transplant.
2. Assessment: Evaluation of the individual’s hair loss pattern, donor hair availability, and previous transplant results.
3. Customized Plan: Creation of a personalized plan, including the number of grafts needed, placement strategy, and surgical technique.
4. Surgery: Surgeon will set the date and perform a second hair transplant.

What Techniques Can You Use For A Second Hair Transplant?

There are no restrictions on the use of second transplant surgery. Hence, the process of a transplant mirrors that of the first, unless the patient requests removal of hairs from a specific scalp region.

Notably, the surgeon must take extra precautions to preserve previously transplanted hairs and maintain the natural aesthetic of the donor area.

Depending on the outcome, surgeon may use either of the following techniques:

• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): A minimally invasive technique where individual follicular units are extracted and transplanted.
• Robotic Hair Restoration: A state-of-the-art, robotic-assisted system that facilitates precise and efficient hair transplantation. Thus, most surgeons prefer this method due to its advanced technique.
• Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): A strip harvesting technique where a single strip of hair-bearing skin is extracted and dissected into individual follicular units.

What Are The Benefits Of A Second Hair Transplant?

When necessary, a second hair transplant can bring numerous benefits. You can experience a remarkable hair transformation, with a noticeable improvement in hair density transplant before and after the second procedure.

Here are some benefits of the second hair transplant:

• Increased hair coverage
• Enhanced natural appearance
• Improved hairline definition
• Halting further hair loss
• Correcting uneven graft placement

See Also: Hair Transplant Aftercare

Can You Get More Than Two Hair Transplants?

Practically, you can get as many hair transplants as you like. However, it depends on the quality and quantity of donor hair. Generally, individuals plan third or fourth surgery after hair transplants that did not produce desired results.

Similarly, you may need a separate transplant for different body hair such as beard transplant in addition to hair transplant.

However, many experts suggest not taking more than three hair transplants for the same problem.

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth getting a second hair transplant?

It all depends on personal goals, circumstances and expectations. A second hair transplant is worth it for individuals who are experiencing continuous hair loss.

Doesn’t a Hair Transplant Last Forever?

Hair transplant is a permanent solution to balding or excessive hair loss. However, the chances of a failed transplant also loom around. Especially, if you do not have it from a renowned transplant clinic.

How many grafts for a second hair transplant?

The number of grafts needed for a second hair transplant depends on factors including the amount of hair in your donor area, the severity of your hair loss, and the desired outcome.

Can a second hair transplant damage the first?

Yes, a second hair transplant can damage the first, especially if both use the same donor area.

Will a second hair transplant leave scars?

Yes, a second hair transplant may leave some scars, but they are usually less noticeable than the first.

Which celebrities have had second hair transplant?

Numerous celebrities including Wayne Rooney, Elon Musk and Stuart Hogg had a second hair transplant.