Why More Men Are Getting Hair Transplants Than Ever Before
The global hair restoration industry is expected to reach $32.4 billion by 2026, growing at a compounded rate of 22.7% annually. Incredibly, every 13th man will opt for hair transplant surgery in his lifetime — and women seem to be following the trend as well.
Overall, approximately 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States suffer from Androgenetic Alopecia, the most common form of hair loss [source]. Every year, about 650,000 people choose to get a hair transplant in an attempt to stop and control their hair loss. These eye-opening statistics leave little doubt that hair transplants have become more mainstream as the 21st-century continues to embrace cosmetic surgeries as the new normal.
Why men’s hair transplants have become so popular
Although hair loss can be caused by a number of factors, thinning hair is often viewed as a result of aging. Because of our culture’s fixation on youth, many people facing hair loss feel pressured to do something about their condition before it becomes a bigger, more noticeable issue.
According to a study conducted by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), over 45% of hair transplant patients are between the age of 26 and 35, and the second largest age group receiving hair transplants are between the ages of 35 and 45 (42%). So, while hair transplants are often associated with older people, the reality is that more and more people are doing something to address their hair loss early.
In the same ISHRS study, over 70% of patients reported that their reason for undergoing a hair transplant procedure was to positively impact either their career or social standing. Patients believe a younger more vigorous appearance will not only benefit their own self-confidence but have a direct impact on their private and professional lives.
These are life altering drivers and it’s no surprise why hair transplants are one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries in the country today.
The origin of hair transplants
The first hair transplant was successfully conducted in New York City all the way back in 1952 by Dr. Norman Orentreich. His landmark findings were so astounding that the medical community was in disbelief and actually refused to accept his paper until 7 years later when his study was finally published in 1959.
Since then, hair transplant technology has advanced considerably to make hair transplants even more natural looking and there are two methods you can choose from.
The FUT Method
The Follicular Unit Transplantation method generally yields the most amount of hair. If you want maximum fullness, the FUT method is generally the way to go thanks to the precision of the stern-microscopic follicular dissection. With this method, a strip of hair-covered skin is removed from the patient and follicles are extracted from it before being translated to the scalp.
Where the strip of skin was removed, the surgeon will place stitches that will remain for about 10 to 14 days while the area heals back up.
The FUE Method
The alternative method is Follicular Unit Extraction, which is less invasive and has a faster healing time. If your primary goal is to return quickly to your normal life, FUE is ideal. Many patients also choose FUE to avoid linear donor scars, which they may be self-conscious about although the scar should be hidden by the growing hair.
With the FUE method, follicles are individually extracted directly from the scalp (typically on the back of the head in a hidden area) and then transplanted into other areas of the scalp. The extraction can be done manually or with the use of a machine.
Physicians will consult with you ahead of time to determine where you would like to restore your hair line and to what degree. For instance, if you already have experienced a decent amount of hair line recession, a physician can help you determine what level of restoration is reasonable and most natural looking for your face, shape, and age.
Regardless of the method you choose or determine is best for your hair loss situation, when performed by trained physician, a hair transplant should deliver natural looking results.
Start Your Hair Restoration Journey Today
Bosley has been a trusted name in hair restoration for over 40 years and, with the popularity of hair transplants surging around the country, hair transplants are more socially acceptable than ever before and are a great way to maintain a youthful appearance that is promised to boost your confidence in all aspects of your life.
Are you ready?
We’ve made it easier than ever to get your hair transplant journey started with contactless video consultations now available. Book and enjoy your consultation from the comfort, safety, and privacy of your own home.
1A. (n.d.). Hair Transplant Market. Retrieved August 21, 2020, from https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/hair-transplant-market 2Every 13th man has a hair transplant according to Bookimed study | Markets Insider. (2019, November 28). Retrieved August 21, 2020, from https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/every-13th-man-has-a-hair-transplant-according-to-bookimed-study-1028724168 3R. (2020, May). International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery: 2020 Practice Census Results. Retrieved August 23, 2020, from https://ishrs.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Report-2020-ISHRS-Practice-Census-05-22-20.pdf 4Bernstein Medical – Center for Hair Restoration. (2019, October 24). History of Hair Transplant Surgery. Retrieved August 21, 2020, from https://www.bernsteinmedical.com/hair-transplant/resources/history/
What to do next?
To learn more about your hair restoration options and the average hair transplant timeline, The Complete Book on Hair Restoration, to see how great your hair can look. If you’re ready to do something about that bald spot or thinning hair now, schedule a FREE in-person or video consultation with a trained Bosley hair restoration specialist. Together with a Bosley Physician, we can help you find out what’s causing your balding and what treatment solution is right for you.