The Dark Side of Hair Transplants: Unveiling the Dangers and Complications
Posted by Dr. Rob Berberian on Jul 4th 2023
Hair transplants have gained popularity as a viable solution for individuals struggling with hair loss. While the procedure offers hope for many, it's crucial to acknowledge the potential dangers, problems, and complications associated with hair transplants, particularly when performed by the wrong doctor or clinic. Dr. Rob Berberian, founder of Kisso Kisso Med Spa in Newport Beach, is the pioneer of the manual FUE Hair Transplant. In this article, we delve into the darker side of hair transplants, discussing the risks, side effects, and infamous cases of botched procedures experienced by celebrities.
The Dangers of Hair Transplants
- Inexperienced Doctors: One of the gravest risks associated with hair transplants is the involvement of inexperienced doctors. Performing hair restoration procedures requires skill, precision, and artistic judgment. When an inexperienced doctor or surgeon lacks the necessary expertise, they may deliver subpar results, increasing the chances of complications. FUE Hair Transplant is more difficult to perform than an FUT Hair Transplant and that’s why you must go to a surgeon who is experienced well enough to perform the extractions himself in the proper manner. You can read more about the differences between FUE vs FUT Hair Transplants.
- Poorly Executed Procedures: A botched hair transplant can have severe consequences. If the procedure is performed hastily or without proper attention to detail, it can result in unnatural hairlines, patchy growth, visible scarring, or an uneven distribution of hair. These issues can greatly affect the patient's self-esteem and confidence. Once the donor grafts and the donor area are damaged, there is no recourse to fix it. The damage is irreversible, so choose your hair transplant surgeon carefully.
Complications and Side Effects
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection following a hair transplant. Inadequate sterilization, unsterile equipment, or improper post-operative care can contribute to the development of infections, leading to pain, inflammation, and potential damage to the transplanted hair follicles. Sadly, we have seen too many cases of infections when patients have elected to go oversees to un-reputable clinics to save money.
- Scarring: While modern techniques strive to minimize scarring, there is still a possibility of visible scars after a hair transplant. Improper placement of grafts, improper healing, or a patient's predisposition to scarring can result in noticeable scars that can undermine the aesthetic outcome of the procedure. You can see the linear scar left from a prior botched hair transplant in the photo above. Even with the FUE procedure, you can still get scarring if a large punch is used or the procedure is performed improperly.
- Prolonged Recovery: Hair transplants require a recovery period, during which patients may experience discomfort, swelling, or numbness in the scalp. However, when the procedure is performed poorly, the recovery process may be prolonged and more challenging, causing extended pain and frustration. We no longer offer the FUT Hair Transplant because of the extreme amount of pain the patient will experience for many weeks, if not months.
Notorious Celebrity Hair Transplant Disasters
- Elton John: In the early stages of his career, Elton John underwent a hair transplant procedure that resulted in unnatural and unsatisfactory results. The procedure left visible scars and an abnormal hairline, which became a source of criticism and mockery in the media.
- Joe Biden: U.S. President Joe Biden's hair transplant procedure received attention due to its noticeable change in appearance. Although not officially confirmed, speculation suggests that the procedure resulted in a dense hairline that appeared less natural.
- Wayne Rooney: English footballer Wayne Rooney openly discussed his hair transplant procedure. While he achieved positive results, Rooney's decision to undergo multiple procedures in a short span of time led to a rather unnatural-looking hairline, raising concerns about the potential risks of excessive intervention.
While hair transplants can offer a promising solution to those struggling with hair loss, it is essential to be aware of the potential dangers, complications, and side effects that may arise from a poorly executed procedure. Choosing an experienced and reputable doctor or clinic is paramount to minimize these risks and ensure satisfactory results. By staying informed and learning from the mistakes made in notorious celebrity cases, individuals can make informed decisions when embarking on their own hair restoration journeys.
You can text us your photos of your hair for review by Dr. Rob Berberian so we can provide you your free quote: 424-744-3816
Dr. Rob Berberian is the creator of the Zero Bruising Lip Filler, Celebrity Under Eye Treatment, Gummy Smile Treatment and Celebrity Facial Sculpting procedures. He is the pioneer of the manual FUE Hair Transplant, capable of doing 4000+ grafts in one session by hand from start to finish.
Located in the heart of Newport Beach, near Hoag Hospital, serving all of Orange County, Kisso Kisso Med Spa offers a serene and tranquil environment where you can escape the stresses of daily life. All artwork in our spa is created by Dr. Berberian. We are the exclusive retailer of Secret in-a-Tube Organic Skincare used in our backbar services and available for purchase at our Med Spa or online store.
We are located in Newport Beach, near Hoag Hospital. We serve all of Orange County, Los Angeles County and San Diego County. We welcome out of town patients as well. You can send us photos of your hair or face via IG DM for review.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach us via text, IG DM or email.
Call or Text: 424-744-3816