The risks and benefits of hair restoration depend on the method used. When performed correctly, successful hair restoration can provide patients with hair that appears natural. Recent advances in hair transplantation make it possible for some patients to achieve this natural look in one session. Careful planning combined with the right candidate can produce lasting results.

Recent advances in grafting technology have made surgical procedures much more effective and less noticeable, though they tend to be expensive and may be painful. Hair replacement surgery is usually safe when performed by a qualified physician. However, side effects can occur and may include:

• Nausea or vomiting caused by medication
  
• Postoperative bleeding or infection (rare)
  
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
  
• Headache
  
• Numbness of the scalp
  
• Scarring
  
• Poor growth of grafts (transplanted tissue)

Hair replacement surgery is not generally recommended for people without sufficient quantities of donor hair, such as men with premature pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) or extensive balding. Further progression of hair loss following surgery may result in a “patchy” appearance, particularly if new hair loss occurs next to patches of transplanted hair. Additional procedures may be required for some patients to achieve a look that is cosmetically acceptable.

The medications minoxidil and finasteride are normally safe methods of hair restoration that cause only occasional minor side effects when used as directed (e.g., skin irritation). However, finasteride is not approved for use in women. In addition, women of child bearing age should not ingest or handle finasteride due to a risk of serious side effects in male fetuses.

Continued use of finasteride and/or minoxidil may regrow hair and/or stop hair loss after several months in some individuals, though these medications do not work for everyone. Furthermore, any hair grown or maintained because of the medication is usually lost within several months after treatment stops.