This can be especially discouraging for those who had their hopes up about finally finding the cure for hair loss. But fret not, rejection isn’t the end of the road. There are alternative options that still exist and it is important to understand how to take this setback in stride.
In this article, we will explain why people may get rejected for a hair transplant, the other choices available for you, and how to handle all these emotional blows when applying.
Why do some people get turned down?
Before working out alternatives, it would be helpful to know why some have been turned away from getting one done so you could move on to Plan B.
Thin donor Area
The main reason people get rejected is due to their thin donor area. When there aren’t enough healthy follicles growing around this area (usually at the back and sides of your head), then there’s no way they’ll be able to cover up those bald spots as effectively as they should. Knowing what’s wrong with your scalp can help point you in the right direction with your next steps.
The success of a transplant fully depends on how much good quality hair you have left there. If it’s thin or weak then it wouldn’t give enough fantastic follicles that could be transplanted over elsewhere on your scalp. This is also usually applicable for those whose hair loss has moved onto an advanced phase or if it’s spread all across such a large surface.
There are certain cases where they might find possible donors but it simply doesn’t work out like patients with diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA). This disorder causes severe thinning throughout the scalp which leads them with little luck in finding suitable hairs for transplantation.
When you hear from healthcare professionals that there just wasn’t enough supply coming from your donor, don’t let this bring you down entirely because now is not time for giving up — instead think of it as a sign to consider other hair growth treatments.
Your doctor or hair specialist will be knowledgeable enough to give you advice on where your next steps should go. They may suggest that you consider taking medications, scalp micro pigmentation, or applying hair systems. Each of these alternatives would still do well in helping you finally achieve the look and confidence boost that you’ve been wanting since day one.
Existing Disorders
Another reason for rejection is when underlying medical conditions are present. If any issues could lead to complications before, during, or after the transplant then your chances of getting approved become slim. This includes infections found around the scalp area, blood clotting disorders, or uncontrolled diabetes.
- Scalp Infections and Skin Disorders: Scalp infections or skin disorders like psoriasis and dermatitis can prevent a hair transplant from being successful. These conditions can affect the health of the scalp, making it difficult for new hair follicles to be implanted and grow. It's important to treat these conditions before considering a hair transplant.
- Blood Clotting Disorders: Blood clotting disorders can increase the risk of bleeding during and after the transplant surgery. This can lead to complications and affect the healing process. If you have a blood clotting disorder, your doctor will assess whether it's safe for you to undergo a hair transplant.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can hinder the healing process and boost the chances of an infection after surgery. For a hair transplant to be successful, you must have your diabetes in check. If it isn't then the doctor may deny you that hair transplant.
- Addressing Health Conditions Before Hair Restoration: If there are underlying health conditions that stop you from getting a hair transplant, you must focus on those first. Treating the condition or simply getting it under control can improve overall health making you eligible for that much-needed hair restoration.
Unrealistic Expectations
Unrealistic expectations are another common reason for rejection from a hair transplant. Patients must understand the limits of what this procedure can achieve. This helps set appropriate goals and makes sure they won't be disappointed by their results.
Hair transplants do wonders for people experiencing hair loss, but even these procedures have their boundaries. They redistribute existing hair instead of creating new strands so keep in mind how much donor hair is needed to get the outcome you want. If patients expect a full head of robust silky locks but only bring limited donor hairs then sorry, that’s not going to happen.
Surgeons should ensure patients know about these limitations. For instance how much donor hair they will need based upon their individual's pattern and availability. When someone gets their hopes too high or expects something completely outlandish surgeons may advise against the procedure altogether.
Another aspect people seem to not understand properly is age and facial structure differences when comparing between younger and older generations. A natural young person’s look might look weird on someone who’s already grown old with time. Surgeons have been trained well enough to design a fitting look that complements one’s age and face shape ensuring an overall natural appearance post-surgery.
Realistic expectations should also be applied when considering the recovery process itself along with how long it will take before success shows up at your doorstep. Hair growth is a gradual process and that’s after taking into account the several months to a year it can take to see full results.
Exploring Alternative Options to Hair Transplants
If you’ve been rejected time and time again for hair transplants then maybe you should look at these alternatives instead. Some can manage hair loss while still allowing for an improved overall appearance.
Medical Treatments
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil, better known by its brand name Rogain is available in stores without prescription. The medication helps slow hair loss and even promotes regrowth by stimulating needed follicles. Both men and women can use this effective treatment but it shines when treating pattern baldness.
- Finasteride (Propecia): Finasteride which goes by Propecia when sold has only one target audience, that being men who have received a prescription from their doctor. It blocks the hormone responsible for hair loss in men with male pattern baldness, slowing down their losses and helping them regrow what they’ve lost so far. Women aren’t allowed to use this though due to potential side effects.
- Dutasteride: Dutasteride is quite similar to finasteride in many ways but is considered stronger under certain circumstances. It isn’t common like finasteride however as doctors will only prescribe them if other treatments haven’t shown any success yet. This option isn’t available to women either seeing how it requires a prescription just like its sibling drug does too.
- Corticosteroids: When it comes to hair loss, corticosteroids can be a great treatment. For those with autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, these puppies get the job done. Injections, topical solutions, and oral medications are all ways you can take this drug. The way it works is by reducing inflammation surrounding the hair follicles for them to grow back.
- PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses a concentration of platelets from your blood to stimulate hair growth. This plasma is injected into the scalp where it does its thing. This treatment helps heal and grow hair at the same time. PRP therapy often gets combined with other treatments and can be quite effective when paired with minoxidil or finasteride.
Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is used for people not eligible for a transplant or those who want an alternative option. It's a cosmetic procedure that mimics tattooing by using microneedles to ink tiny dots on the scalp. These dots give off the illusion of fuller or closely shaved hair.
One of SMP's shining qualities is that it works quickly and instantly gratifies patients with long-lasting results. Unlike transplants which require months before they show full results, this treatment doesn’t have you waiting around forever. The process only takes a few sessions depending on how much area needs treating.
People love how versatile SMP is too! No matter what type of baldness you're dealing with — thinning spots, receding hairline, etc., you’ll see success from SMP which even masks previous scars from transplants or injuries. Your natural colour on your skin and scalp will be matched during your appointment creating an almost invisible result.
If you’re someone who hates having to maintain treatments once they’re done then this one’s for you! After just one session there’s no need for ongoing care or medicine. The results are also long-lasting, though after a few years, you may need to get touch-ups due to fading.
Hair Systems
- Non-Invasive Solution for Hair Loss: If you’re not in favour of undergoing a surgical procedure or are not a candidate for hair transplants, hair systems could be the ideal option. Wigs and toupees offer an immediate solution to hair loss without performing any invasive procedures. Different styles, colours, and textures equating to your natural hair are available with this type of system.
- Advancements in Hair System Technology: Over time, modern hair systems have developed greatly in terms of realism and comfort. The materials utilized in producing them are made from high quality thus imitating the look and feel of natural hair. Moreover, these lightweight and breathable bases guarantee comfort throughout the day.
- Customization Options: One remarkable advantage that hair systems provide is customization. You can select whichever density, colour, texture or style that matches your appearance and preferences best. Even though it’s tailored specifically for you, custom hair systems still make sure that it fits naturally to your scalp.
- Ease of Maintenance: While keeping up with maintenance is important for maintaining its quality, modern designs typically come with simple processes. Clean it regularly while conditioning and styling as needed to keep your system in its prime state. High-quality ones can last long enough if properly taken care of thus making it cost-effective.
- Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem: Other than providing an instant transformation, wearing one can significantly increase confidence and overall self-esteem as well. It gives you the freedom to customize however which way you want leading to a more satisfying result. This immediate solution offers individuals another way to improve their image and well-being.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
- Non-Invasive Treatment Option: Another non-invasive treatment alternative for those who can’t undergo transplants is Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). Stimulating blood flow on the scalp through laser light exposure using devices like combs or caps will help in promoting growth as well as improving scalp health.
- Circulation Boost: Exposure to the scalp and hair follicles is done by utilizing low-level laser light in LLLT. This increases blood flow which then leads to stimulation of cellular activity. As a result, it encourages hair growth thus slowing down the progression of hair loss.
- Convenience and Ease of Use: Additionally, you can undergo this therapy in your own home as many devices are designed for personal use. Just make sure that you follow the procedure properly and have consistent sessions over several months to ensure effectiveness.
- Generally Safe with Minimal Side Effects: Unlike treatments that involve chemicals or drugs which possess a higher risk of adverse reactions, LLLT has minimal side effects. The effectiveness however will differ from one person to another so it’s important to maintain realistic expectations about the results.
Another thing about LLLT is that it can be combined with other treatments like medication and hair systems. This makes it a very flexible option when it comes to dealing with hair loss and making your scalp healthier.
Final Verdict
Getting denied for a hair transplant could feel like you’ve hit a roadblock, but believe me, there’s always another way. There are quite a few alternative options when it comes to solving hair loss issues, so don't let the rejection get to you emotionally.
Medical treatments, scalp micropigmentation procedures, hair systems and laser therapy are all great ways that help you tackle your hair loss problems head-on. Just remember that seeking support from others is important for your mental health during these times. Focus on what you can control in the situation, and look into every option possible to find out which one would work best for you.
Michael Pereira
Michael Pereira, 31, boasts a rich understanding of hair transplant procedures and the science behind them. His expertise is drawn from hands-on experience and a genuine passion for understanding the art and science of hair restoration. In his free time, Michael keeps himself updated with the latest in medical innovations.
