What is an eyebrow transplant?
An eyebrow transplant is a cosmetic procedure where hair grafts (plugs) are transferred to your brow area. This goal is that new hairs will grow from these grafts, producing a fuller look.
The procedure
The actual procedure is similar to a traditional hair transplant.
Eyebrow hair grafts are taken from hairs above your ears. A surgeon transfers not just the individual hairs, but the hair follicles, too. This helps to ensure that new hairs are able to grow in your eyebrows once the initial transferred ones fall out.
After you’re given a general anesthetic, a surgeon will make small incisions at the follicle donor sites, as well as at the sites of transplantation in your brows. The entire process takes about 2 to 3 hours.
Pros and cons
Proponents of eyebrow hair transplants note that the new hairs look natural because they’re your own. The procedure may also limit the need for brow makeup.
However, there are also reported downsides to this procedure. For one, it’s costly. It can also take several months until the new follicles “take” so that you see full results. Finally, there’s a chance that these new follicles won’t produce new hairs.
What’s the recovery like for an eyebrow transplant?
The recovery period for an eyebrow transplant is relatively quick. You’ll notice some scabbing around the brows within the first few days. It’s important to not pick at these.
You may need to avoid vigorous exercise for up to 3 weeks following your surgery. Call your surgeon if you experience any bleeding, swelling, or pus at the site.
You’ll start to see the transplanted hairs fall out after a few weeks. This is completely normal. Your new brow hairs should start to grow over the next several months. In the meantime, you may need to trim the transplanted hairs to brow length.
Precautions and side effects
One potential risk of an eyebrow transplant is that the new hair follicles won’t take. In such cases, you may have to have the procedure done again in the future.
There are also risks associated with the surgery itself. Talk to your surgeon about the following potential complications:
Before your eyebrow transplant, your surgeon will go over your medical history with you. Be sure to disclose any underlying health conditions, as well as any medications or supplements you currently take.
An eyebrow transplant may not be suitable if you have:
How much does it cost?
An eyebrow transplant is considered a “non-medical” procedure. This means it’s not typically covered by health insurance. Eyebrow transplants are similar to other cosmetic procedures, including injectables.
The exact price for your eyebrow transplant will vary based on your individual needs, your provider, and where you live. On average, this procedure may cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000. Included in the estimate are additional fees related to the facility itself, the surgeon, and the anesthesiologist (if needed).
One exception to the health insurance rule is if your eyebrow transplant is deemed necessary due to hair loss from an accident or an underlying medical condition. Such cases are less common, though. You would still be responsible for any copays and deductibles required by your insurance plan.
It’s also important to be aware of potential costs outside of the initial procedure. For example, if you desire additional implants after the recovery phase, you will need to pay for these per your provider’s costs.
Many providers have payment options to help their patients offset the costs of their cosmetic procedures. This may come in the form of special discounts, financing, or payment plans. Ask your provider about these options before booking your eyebrow transplant.
Where should you have this procedure done?
Eyebrow transplants are performed by dermatologic, cosmetic, or plastic surgeons. A doctor may do the surgery in an outpatient facility or a medical spa.
It’s a good idea to shop around for the right provider before committing to the procedure. Ask the surgeon about their credentials and experience. Ideally, they should also have a portfolio of work to show you so that you can gain a sense of their skills.
During the consultation you will have the opportunity to ask Dr. Kelemen any questions or concerns you may have about the transplant. Dr. Kelemen always ensures that the patient is well informed about the procedure.
Contact Us or call Hair 4 Life at (480) 525-4547 to schedule an appointment and get your free consultation.
The first step in your journey to address your hair loss is to schedule a one-on-one session with Dr. Kelemen. At H4L you will always have your consultation with the doctor!