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  • Writer's pictureDr Rishi

Is it possible to get a hair transplant if completely bald?

Updated: Oct 20, 2023


A man holding a comb on a bald head

Hair transplant is typically not recommended for individuals who are completely bald and have no remaining donor hair available. Hair transplantation involves taking hair follicles from a donor area (usually the back or sides of the scalp) and transplanting them into the recipient area (balding or thinning areas). In cases of complete baldness, where there is a lack of viable donor hair, traditional hair transplantation may not be feasible.


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What are the solution and the procedure?

Types of hair color

Some of the alternatives to hair transplantation for individuals with complete baldness include:


1. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP): SMP is a non-surgical procedure that involves depositing pigments into the scalp to create the appearance of closely cropped hair or a shaved head. It can provide the illusion of a fuller head of hair and a defined hairline.

2. Hairpieces or Wigs: Wearing hairpieces or wigs is a non-surgical option that can provide immediate hair coverage for individuals with complete baldness. They come in various styles, colors, and materials to match individual preferences.

3. Hair Systems or Hair Integration: Hair systems or hair integration techniques involve attaching a customized hairpiece to the scalp using specialized adhesives or techniques. This method can provide a natural-looking head of hair and allows for various styling options.

4. Body Hair Transplantation: Body hair transplantation is a technique where hair follicles from other parts of the body, such as the chest, back, or legs, are transplanted to areas of the scalp with thinning or balding hair. This procedure is typically considered when there is limited donor hair available from the scalp. Body hair transplantation can provide additional donor hair resources for individuals seeking hair restoration. However, it's important to note that body hair differs from scalp hair in terms of texture, growth cycle, and quality, so the results may vary. The success of body hair transplantation depends on various factors, including the compatibility of the body hair with the scalp, the expertise of the surgeon, and the individual's specific circumstances.


It's important to consult with a hair restoration specialist or a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss to explore the available options and determine the most suitable solution based on your individual needs, preferences, and extent of hair loss.


Which body can be used as a donor area? How many grafts are needed to cover a fully bald head?

Types of hair-grown body part

Various body parts can serve as donor areas for hair transplantation, depending on the individual's specific circumstances and the availability of suitable hair. Common donor areas include:

1. Chest: The chest is a common donor area for body hair transplantation due to its relatively dense hair growth.

2. Back: The back can provide a good source of donor's hair, particularly in cases where the individual has a significant amount of hair on their back.

3. Legs: In some cases, hair from the legs can be utilized as donor hair for transplantation.


The number of grafts required to cover a fully bald head varies depending on factors such as the size of the recipient area, desired hair density, hair characteristics, and the individual's expectations. Each graft typically contains one to four hairs. The number of grafts needed can range from several hundred to several thousand. A comprehensive evaluation by a hair transplant surgeon is necessary to determine the specific number of grafts required based on individual considerations and goals.


Is body hair transplant effective and are there any kind of complications?

A skilled individual performing a root massage

Body hair transplantation can be effective in certain cases where there is limited donor hair available from the scalp. It allows for additional hair resources to be used for transplantation, increasing the coverage and density of the recipient area. However, it's important to note that body hair differs from scalp hair in terms of texture, growth cycle, and quality. As a result, the success of body hair transplantation can vary, and the transplanted hair may have different characteristics compared to the native scalp hair


Complications associated with body hair transplantation are possible, similar to other hair transplantation procedures. Some potential complications may include:


1. Lower Hair Quality: Body hair may have different characteristics compared to scalp hair, such as different textures, growth rates, or colors. This can impact the overall aesthetic outcome and may require additional considerations during the transplantation process.

2. Limited Graft Survival: The survival rate of transplanted body hair may be lower compared to scalp hair. It may take longer for the transplanted hair to establish and grow.

3. Donor Site Issues: Harvesting hair from the body can result in scarring, potential damage to the donor area, or changes in the appearance of the donor site. These complications are generally minimal but should be considered.

4. Varied Hair Growth: Body hair may have a different growth cycle compared to scalp hair. As a result, the transplanted body hair may not grow at the same rate or follow the same growth pattern as scalp hair.


It is important to consult with a hair transplant specialist to discuss the feasibility, potential outcomes, and risks associated with body hair transplantation. A thorough evaluation of the individual's specific circumstances and goals can help determine if body hair transplantation is a suitable option and manage any potential complications.


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