What you need to know about hair transplants

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Do You Still Need Medication After a Hair Transplant?

Yes — medication is still recommended after a hair transplant. 

Here's why:

1. Transplanted Hair vs. Natural Hair

• The transplanted hairs (usually from the back of the scalp) are not sensitive to DHT, the hormone responsible for male and female pattern hair loss.

• These hairs will generally remain stable and not fall out.

2. The Rest of Your Hair Is Still Vulnerable

• The existing hairs around the transplant area, however, are still affected by DHT.

• Without medication, these native hairs can continue to miniaturize and thin out, potentially leading to:

  • Patchy appearance over time.

  • The need for another transplant in the future.

3. Common Medications Post-Transplant

• Finasteride (Propecia): Reduces DHT to slow or stop hair loss.

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): Helps stimulate growth and preserve existing hair.

4. Why Medication Matters

• Hair transplants offer a great result initially — often within 12 to 18 months.

• Without medication, around 2 to 3 years later, patients may notice:

  • Hair thinning around the transplant.

  • The illusion of “lost” transplant success.

  • The desire or need for another surgery, which isn’t always possible due to limited donor hair.

5. One Surgery Is the Goal

• You only have so many donor grafts available.

• Repeated surgeries can eventually make the donor area appear thin or “moth-eaten.”

• Medication helps preserve your native hair, making that one transplant last and look good long-term.

Summary: A hair transplant can fix what’s already lost — but only medication can protect what's still there. So, yes, you’ll still need medication to maintain your results over the years.

Think you may have hair loss? Consider booking in an online or in person consultation with us.

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