Am I a good candidate for a hair transplant at 26-27 w/ minor hairline and temple recession?

Question

26 year old considering a hair transplant in the next year or two to restore my hairline. 3 hair loss specialists in the last 6 months have told me that I am a good candidate for FUE/FUT (quoting 2000-2500 grafts). I've been told that given that my loss isn't aggressive, the nature of my hair, and my age, I am unlikely to reach a high Norwood. I've tried taking finasteride twice at different doses. I had side effects each time. I'm prepared to get more HTs down the line. Am I a good candidate?

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Based on your photos, the 1500-2000 grafts might be good option for you, but it would be wrong to say something for sure. You should see a board certified surgeon. You can then plan the process together and discuss the results. I wish you all the best.

William Woessner, MD · Answer

You are a good candidate as far as type of hair loss and adequate donor area. As you acknowledge, however, due to your young age, you are likely to need a second transplant in the future. Especially since you are unable to take finesteride.

Joseph MacDonald, MD · Answer

It sounds like you have done your due diligence. There are a couple of concerns however that should be addressed. 
1 - you say that your hairloss isn't aggressive yet you are needing up to 2500 grafts to restore just your hairline. That's actually a lot. Be sure that your surgeons are not going to put on a hairline that is too low. What that means for me is will you look age appropriate with that hairline when you are 50? How about 70? Many men in their 20's find this a difficult concept and certain surgeons in my opinion will give the patient whatever they want, even if its not in their best interest. 
2 - you are not taking finasteride. Nothing else will slow down the balding process like finasteride. You say you are not likely to reach a high Norwood however no one has a crystal ball and many surgeons would be quite chagrined to see how wrong they were if they could see their patients, like yourself, 50 years from now. Without finasteride I would be even more conservative with hair transplantation. I would highly recommend you go on at least something to attempt to stabilize your hair. 
I you are in the Sydney area then I would recommend meeting with one of my respected colleagues, Dr. Knudsen, whom I trust will give you honest advice. 
All the best,

Prima Tossaborvon, MD, MSc · Answer

To see if you're a good candidate for hair transplant, it would be great if you can provide some photos so that I can better understand your situation. There're many factors, for instance, baldness class, donor area and etc, to consider. So, those 3 specialists you have met should be ones who give you answers as they met you in person.

Baubac Hayatdavoudi, MD · Answer

A great first step would be an online consultation. Often you can submit photos to top hair restoration surgeons for a complimentary evaluation and assessment. This should help lead you in the right direction. Having multiple consultations with different doctors will let you know your best options.

Am I a good candidate for a hair transplant at 26-27 w/ minor hairline and temple recession?

Answers (9)

Answer: Candidate for Hair Transplant

Answer: Candidate for Hair Transplant

Answer: HAIR TRANSPLANT CONSULTATION

Answer: HAIR TRANSPLANT CONSULTATION

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Am I a good candidate for a hair transplant at 26-27 w/ minor hairline and temple recession?

Answers (9)

Answer: Candidate for Hair Transplant

Answer: Candidate for Hair Transplant

Answer: HAIR TRANSPLANT CONSULTATION

Answer: HAIR TRANSPLANT CONSULTATION

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.