What to Expect from an Eyebrow Transplant

The procedure, Cost, and Side Effects

Traditionally, the remedy for skinny or sparse eyebrows has been to believe makeup products to "fill in" eyebrow hairs. However, there's an increased interest during a more permanent solution: the eyebrow hair transplant.

An eyebrow hair transplant is performed by a cosmetic or plastic surgeon with the transfer of your hairs.

While the procedure seems simple, there are multiple aspects to think about, from cost to risks and side effects. Keep reading to find out what to expect from an eyebrow hair transplant and the way to work out whether this surgery is right for you.

What is an eyebrow hair transplant?

An eyebrow hair transplant may be 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 analogous to a standard hair transplant.

Eyebrow hair transplant grafts are taken from hairs above your ears. A surgeon transfers not just the individual hairs, but the hair follicles, too. This helps make sure that new hairs can grow in your eyebrows once the initial transferred ones fall out.

After you are 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 three hours.

Pros and cons

Proponents of Eyebrow hair transplants note that the new hairs look natural because they are your own. The procedure can also limit the necessity for brow makeup.

However, there also are reported downsides to the present procedure. For one, it is costly. It can also take several months until the new follicles "take" to see full results. Finally, there's an opportunity that these new follicles won't produce new hairs.

What is the recovery like for an Eyebrow hair transplant?

The recovery period for an eyebrow hair transplant is comparatively quick. You will notice some scabbing around the brows within the primary few days. It is essential to not pick at these.

You may get to avoid vigorous exercise for up to three weeks following your surgery. Call your surgeon if you experience any bleeding, swelling, or pus at the location.

You will start to ascertain the transplanted hairs fall out after a couple of weeks. This is entirely normal. Your new brow hairs should start to grow over subsequent several months. In the meantime, you will get to trim the transplanted hairs to brow length.

Precautions and side effects

One potential risk of an eyebrow hair transplant is that the new hair follicles will not take. In such cases, you'll need to have the procedure done again within the future.

There also are risks related to the surgery itself. Talk to your surgeon about the subsequent potential complications:

excessive bleeding

nerve damage

swelling

bruising

infection

scarring

Before your eyebrow hair transplant, your surgeon will re-evaluate your medical record with you. Be sure to disclose any underlying health conditions, as well as any medications or supplements you currently take.

An eyebrow hair transplant might not be suitable if you have:

alopecia areata

trichotillomania

bleeding disorders

A history of complications related to cosmetic surgery

How much does it cost?

An eyebrow hair transplant is considered a "nonmedical" procedure. This means it is not typically covered by health insurance. Eyebrow hair transplants are almost like other cosmetic procedures, including injectables.

The exact price for your eyebrow hair transplant will vary supported your individual needs, your provider, and where you reside. On average, this procedure may cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000. Included within the estimate are additional fees associated with the power itself, the surgeon, and therefore the anesthesiologist (if needed).

One exception to the insurance rule is that your eyebrow hair transplant is deemed necessary thanks to hair loss from an accident or an underlying medical condition. Such cases are less common, however. You would still be liable for any copays and deductibles required by your insurance plan.

It is also essential to be aware of potential costs outside of the initial procedure. For example, if you desire additional implants after the recovery phase, you'll be got to buy these per your provider's costs.

Many providers have payment options to assist their patients to offset the prices of their cosmetic procedures. This may are available the shape of special discounts, financing, or payment plans. Ask your provider about these options before booking your eyebrow hair transplant.

Where should you have this procedure done?

Eyebrow hair transplants are performed by dermatologic, cosmetic, or plastic surgeons. A doctor may do the surgery in an outpatient facility or a medical spa.

It is 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 to gain a sense of their skills.

A consultation is your opportunity to look at a prospective surgeon's work portfolio while also affording yourself time to ask them questions. Many providers will offer "free" consultations. You are not obligated to book the procedure until you have found a surgeon you are comfortable working with.

Finally, you ought to never attempt this procedure with a disreputable provider as to how to save lots of money. This could not only result in dangerous side effects, but you will likely be unhappy with the work and may have to get it done all over again.

If you are having trouble finding a provider, ask a dermatologist for recommendations. You can also look for reputable plastic surgeons in your area via the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Key takeaways

An eyebrow hair transplant may offer long-term results if you are not happy with your eyebrows' look and want a more permanent solution. However, results can vary, and there is always a risk of side effects with cosmetic surgery. This is true even with a procedure as seemingly simple as an eyebrow hair transplant.

Weigh all of your options carefully and ask your doctor for advice. If you opt to travel forward with an eyebrow hair transplant, take time to research and find a reputable provider who will do the simplest possible job.