Hair Transplant or Hair Replacement: Which is Better?

Hair Transplant Surgery

Hair loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide, and men and women in Syracuse and Central New York are no exception. There are various hair replacement options available to men, women, and children of all ages, but the two most popular hair loss solutions for men and women are hair transplants and hair replacement systems. We thought we’d take a look at these two options and examine the differences, pros and cons of each.

Hair Loss Solutions for Men & Women

Hair loss is a condition that affects both men and women. It can be caused by various factors such as genetics, age, hormonal changes, and medical conditions. Hair replacement options are available to those who want to restore their hair and regain their confidence.

Hair replacement options can be divided into two categories: surgical and non-surgical. Surgical hair replacement includes hair transplants, while non-surgical hair replacement includes hair systems.

How do Hair Transplants Work?

Hair transplants are a surgical procedure that involves harvesting hair from the back or sides of the head and transplanting it to the balding area. There are two types of hair transplant procedures: follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplants.

In FUT, a strip of skin containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area and transplanted to the recipient area. In FUE, individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area and transplanted to the recipient area.

After hair transplant surgery is completed, the transplanted hair falls out within two to three weeks. However, new hair growth starts within three to four months, and the final results are visible generally within nine to fourteen months.  We cover the whys and wherefores as to why this happens in another blog post, so stay tuned.

Pros and Cons of Hair Transplants

Hair transplants have several advantages over other hair restoration options. Firstly, they provide permanent results as the transplanted hair is resistant to balding. Secondly, assuming the surgeon has had several years’ experience and has a keen artistic eye, they look natural as the hair is taken from the patient’s own head. Lastly, they require minimal maintenance, and the patient can treat the transplanted hair just like their own natural hair because, after all, that is exactly what it is.

However, hair transplants also have some drawbacks. Firstly, they are expensive and can cost anywhere between $12,000 to $20,000 with results not being obvious for at least six months after the procedure, since they require a significant amount of time and recovery period. Lastly, not everyone is a good candidate for hair transplants since for a hair transplant to be successful, there must be sufficient donor hair – typically transplanted from the back of the head – to meaningfully cover the balding area with reasonable results.

It is also important to note that the end results of a hair transplant do not result in an overall increase in hair density (except in the transplanted recipient area), since a hair transplant is just that: it transplants hair from one area of the head to another with no increase in overall hair count. Lastly, hair transplant results can vary widely depending on the patient’s hair quality, growth rate and the cosmetic surgeon’s ability and skill.

Are Hair Transplants Worth It?

Whether hair transplants are worth it or not are entirely subjective since the value of a hair transplant depends directly upon the patient’s needs, desires and expectations. If you are looking for a permanent solution to your hair loss problem and have the financial means to afford the procedure, then hair transplants may be worth considering. However, if you are not a good candidate for hair transplants or cannot afford the cost, then you may want to consider other hair restoration options, such as non-surgical hair replacement.

How Does Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Work?

Non-Surgical Hair Replacement

Non-surgical hair replacement includes hair systems, which historically have been known as hair pieces, wigs, toupees, toppers, and other terms. Today’s modern hair replacement systems are almost entirely made of 100% natural human hair. There are also hair systems that are made with synthetic hair, but they account for a small fraction of the market since the end result generally is less realistic and more restricted in terms of color and style than hair replacement systems made from 100% natural human hair. A hair replacement system is attached to the scalp using various methods such as clips, tapes, or adhesives.

Hair systems provide an instant solution to hair loss and are much more affordable than hair transplants. Again, depending upon the skill of the stylist, a non-surgical hair replacement system can look astonishingly real, even up close and personal. While there are hair replacement systems that are considered “stock” pieces or “readymade,” at Profiles by Kristin, we do not offer such hair replacement systems, since the results are less than realistic.  All of our non-surgical hair replacement systems are individually custom made to the client’s unique requirements with care taken to meet each person’s specific needs and expectations. Since all our hair systems are custom made, we can individually tailor them to the style, length, and texture you need as well as precisely color match the unit with your existing hair.  Unlike hair transplants, a hair replacement system can be custom made for virtually any individual and any hair type and will always result in an overall increase in hair density.

Pros and Cons of Non-Surgical Hair Replacement

Non-surgical hair replacement has several advantages over hair transplants. Firstly, they are less expensive and can cost generally in the neighborhood of $2,000 to $3,000 per year as of this writing. Secondly, they provide an instant solution to hair loss and do not require a recovery period. Lastly, they are suitable for those who are not good candidates for hair transplants for whatever reason.

In terms of drawbacks, non-surgical hair replacement requires regular periodic maintenance – typically ever four to six weeks. Clients come in for their appointment, we remove and clean their hair replacement system, reattach it, and providing cutting and styling services just like your regular barber or salon. The entire process typically takes about one hour. Hair replacement systems are an excellent choice for women as well as men.

Which Hair Loss Solution is Best for Me?

Hair transplant and hair system are two different solutions to hair loss, and each has its own pros and cons. The best solution for you depends on your individual needs and expectations. If you are looking for a permanent solution to your hair loss problem and have the financial means to afford the procedure and have sufficient donor hair to transplant, then hair transplants may be the best option for you. However, if you are not a good candidate for hair transplants or cannot afford the cost, then hair systems may be a better option for you.

Hair Replacement & Hair Transplants in Syracuse

Hair loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Hair replacement options are available to those who want to restore their hair and regain their confidence. Hair transplants provide a permanent solution to hair loss and look natural, while hair systems provide an instant solution and are less expensive.

The best hair loss solution for you depends on your individual needs and expectations. No matter which option you choose, it is important to do your research and choose a qualified and experienced hair transplant surgeon or hair replacement specialist. With the right solution and the right professional, you can regain your hair and your confidence.

If you are interested in learning more about hair replacement options, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a complimentary, private consultation with a Profiles hair restoration specialist today to explore your options more thoroughly, get all your questions answered, and develop a hair restoration plan that is designed specifically for you.