Hair Transplant in Women

Hair loss is more common in men as compared to women. However, most men are good candidates for a hair transplant, while the most women are not! Hair loss in women is little complex. Here we will see how women can cope with hair loss and in which situations a hair transplant can help them.

Hair transplant can be of great benefit for women – in certain cases only. When discussing hair transplant in women, the first question arises in the mind that why men are better candidates for a hair transplant. The reason is that hair loss in women is very different from the hair loss in men. Let us first discuss what makes most men a good candidate for a hair transplant.

In men, a hormone known as DHT (dihydrotestosterone) causes hair loss. This hormone affects the hair on the crown and hairline of men. It does not affect body hair and hair on the sides and back of the head. That’s why there is a specific pattern in men’s hair loss known as male pattern baldness. In this pattern, men lose hair from hairline and crown while they retain hair on sides and back of the head. This fact makes them a better candidate for a hair transplant. In hair transplant, hair follicles, which are resistant to DHT (thus resistant to balding), are harvested from sides and back of the head and transplanted into the affected area. These hairs retain their balding resistant characteristics and do not fall.

On the other hand, women rarely face male-like pattern baldness. Hair loss in women is characterized by overall thinning of hair around the head. Most women do not have balding resistant areas like men. This translates into lack of donor hair required for a successful transplant. In addition to hormones, there are many possible causes of female hair loss. Doctor should first investigate all possible underlying causes of hair loss in females. These are the common causes of female hair loss.

• Thyroid disease
• Iron deficiency
• Anemia
• Weight loss induced by severe dieting or eating disorders
• Medication use (particularly oral contraceptives, beta-blockers, vitamin A, thyroid drugs, Coumadin,and prednisone, tranquilizers and sedatives)
• Autoimmune diseases

Before considering Hair transplant in women, it is good idea to properly diagnose and treat underlying cause. Most women will see improvement in their hair if underlying cause is treated properly. A topical solution containing Minoxidil 2% can help by thickening the hair and stimulating hair growth.Hair loss concealers also work great for women. If a woman has healthy donor hair, a hair transplant can be a great idea. With many options at their disposal, chances are good that a good trichologist will find a suitable solution to regain your lost confidence.