According to selfhelp.com, the cost of hair transplant surgery could range from $5,000 to $40,000. This range is so wide because of various factors, such as the number of strands replaced, the consulting doctor’s charges as well as the quality of the replanted hair.
While all kinds of transplants work, one should avoid opting for cheaper solutions. They could cause certain side effects that may become permanent.
Visible Side Effects of Hair Transplant Treatments
While most of the listed side effects of hair transplant surgery are temporary in nature, they could pose problems for the patient. Some of the side effects include:
1. Thinning of hair: After a transplant surgery, the existing natural hair that may lose volume and strength, leading to thinning. This may happen due to the strong medication and chemicals used in the surgery or the body’s reaction to the new hair strands transplanted on the scalp. In medical terms, this phenomenon is known as ‘shock loss.’ It is commonly seen in many patients who have opted for such treatments.
2. Itchy scalp: One of the most common side effects is itchy scalp. Hair transplant surgery can cause irritation and redness of the skin, causing it to become dry and itchy. One should avoid touching the affected area, as it could worsens the condition. Medication can help reduce skin irritation. Certain saline based shampoos also help.
3. Bald patches: Just after a transplant, a person may lose patches of 50-100 hair strands. Do not panic if you are experiencing this side effect. This is natural and common. Patients who have experienced this problem have confirmed that the lost hair re-grow after a time period.
4. Swelling in certain areas: Certain areas of the scalp and forehead may also appear to be swollen after surgery. This may happen due to numerous reasons, but there is nothing to be afraid of. It happens due to the grafted strands of hair and subsides in a few days. However, one needs to consult a doctor if the problem persists.
These side effects are common and will disappear in some time. In more severe cases, a patient can experience bleeding and formation of cysts in the grafted areas. If this happens or if any of the other side effects persist or worsen, consult your physician immediately.