Necessary to shave recipient area for FUT?

Question

I am an African American female with hair loss at my edges. The areas are not completely bald but very sparse. Is it necessary to completely shave the recipient area in the front? Most doctors I have consulted with have said shaving is required because if not shaven the hair grafts have a greater chance of being damaged. Is this the case? One or two said not shaving will be fine. What’s the reason for shaving or not shaving the recipient area? I’m inclined not to shave.

Sait Gokhan Bircan, MD. · Answer

Hello.It is possible to do hair transplant without shaving but need photos to examine it. You can share them over here and can take a look.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

yes  it  is  necessary to completely shave the recipient area in the front scalp  because it si very  hard job to  implant  between long  hair.

Sara Wasserbauer, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

This is ridiculous.  I know that many doctors say this, but not only is there no evidence FOR shaving, there is actually evidence AGAINST it!  (higher risk of infection, see the link below)

Typically this is a matter of either training or - frankly - laziness on the part of the doctor.  I am not usually this blunt, but they either did not train with hair intact to help their patient transition AND have not put in the time to learn - OR - they themselves (or their staff) just want an easy quick surgery at the expense of your ease of recovery.  It also helps their before and after photos to look more "dramatic."

Doctors around the world can and do perform EXPERT hair transplantation surgery for your hair with the hair completely intact, long or short.  Find one of these experts, and leave the less experienced hair surgeons to their shavers.

Necessary to shave recipient area for FUT?

Answers (3)