Hair transplantation is an increasingly popular method of combating baldness and thinning hair. The procedure involves taking hair follicles from donor areas, usually the back of the head, and then transplanting them into the areas affected by hair loss. While this is a safe and effective procedure, many patients wonder if can the body reject transplanted hair. In this article, we’ll explain whether such a risk exists, what the potential complications are, and how to care for the transplanted hair to give it the best possible environment for growth.
Can the body reject transplanted hair?
Unlike organ transplants, hair transplants involve minimal risk of rejection. This is due to the fact that the hair follicles are taken from the same organism that receives them. Thus, there is no immune reaction characteristic of organ transplants, where the patient’s immune system may recognize the transplanted organ as foreign and attack it.
Since the transplanted hair comes from the patient’s own tissues, the body does not treat it as foreign material. For this reason, there is no need for immunosuppressive drugs, which are necessary for organ transplants.
Transplants within the same organism
Intra-organ transplants have no risk of rejection because there is full HLA, or tissue compatibility system, agreement. The procedure involves taking tissue fragments from the occipital region and the sides of the head, and then this tissue is implanted in the areas where we want to restore hair. This is identical, for example, when performing treatments with platelet-rich plasma, or PRP for short.
The material collected is the patient’s venous blood, which is then centrifuged to separate the blood components. The platelet-rich plasma itself is drawn into a syringe and then injected into the area requiring treatment. Everything happens within a single patient. No foreign blood can be drawn to inject another person. But material taken from our own blood will never cause complications, allergic reactions or an immune system response directed against our own blood or plasma.
The same is true for hair transplantation – the body will not generate an immune system response against its own hair. The only exception is autoimmune diseases, such as follicular lichen planus. In this case, the immune system specifically targets the hair follicles and leads to their destruction and scarring of the skin near the hair mouth. The estimated incidence of this condition is one percent of the worldwide scale. Hair transplantation does not cause the condition, but the procedure itself can highlight the first symptoms of the disease by failing to grow hair properly.
Potential complications after hair transplantation
Despite the lack of risk of classic rejection, there may be some complications associated with the hair transplant procedure. These include:
1. abnormal acceptance of the transplanted hair follicles
In some cases, the hair follicles may fail to take in their new location. This may be due to inadequate surgical technique, improper post-operative care or the patient’s individual predisposition.
2 Skin infections
Although rare, infections can occur after hair transplantation. Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling and discharge of a purulent substance. Medical intervention is required for infection.
3. Loss of transplanted hair (shock hair loss)
After transplantation, the so-called shock hair loss often occurs. This is a natural phenomenon that usually subsides after a few months, when the hair follicles begin to produce new, healthy hair.
4. Scarring
Depending on the transplant method (FUT or FUE), scarring of the scalp may occur. The FUE method, which involves harvesting individual hair follicles, minimizes the risk of visible scarring.
How to increase the chances of transplant success?
To maximize the results of a hair transplant and minimize the risk of complications, it is worth following a few rules:
1. Choosing an experienced specialist
Deciding on the doctor performing the procedure is crucial. An experienced specialist will ensure proper technique and minimize the risk of complications.
2. Proper care after the procedure
After transplantation, the doctor’s recommendations for scalp care should be strictly followed. It is important to wash the scalp gently and avoid rubbing the transplanted areas extensively.
3 Avoid risk factors
Sun exposure, intense exercise and smoking should be avoided, which can negatively affect the healing process and the acceptance of the transplanted follicles.
4. Regular follow-up visits
Regular check-ups with your doctor allow you to monitor the progress of healing and detect any problems early.
Summary
Immune rejection of transplanted hair is virtually non-existent, as the transplanted hair follicles come from the same organism. Nevertheless, there is a risk of complications, such as improper acceptance of the transplant, infections or shock hair loss. It is crucial to choose an experienced specialist and take proper care after the procedure. Following medical advice and avoiding risk factors significantly increases the chances of hair transplant success and satisfactory results.
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