Traction alopecia is typically most common in people who frequently wear tight hairstyles, is a form of hair loss caused by tension and pulling on the hair. The condition is often preventable and reversible with early intervention. However, in more severe cases, a hair transplant may be needed to restore hair growth.
This blog will provide a comprehensive look at traction alopecia, how it can be treated through hair transplant surgery, and important factors to consider before and after the procedure.
Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss that occurs when hair is consistently pulled in one direction over time. This type of alopecia is typically caused by hairstyles that exert continuous tension on the hair follicles, such as tight ponytails, braids, buns, and other styles that pull on the scalp. [1]
Over time, this constant pulling can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. In severe cases, hair loss may be permanent. [2]
Traction alopecia is commonly seen in those who often wear tight hairstyles for long periods, especially those who use heat styling tools or chemicals like relaxers that weaken the hair. It can affect people of any gender. However, it is particularly common in women, especially those with Afro-textured or curly hair.
This condition can occur in different stages: In the early stages, hair may simply thin and weaken, and with proper care, the hair may grow back. However, if left untreated, traction alopecia can progress to scarring, where the hair follicles become permanently damaged and incapable of producing hair. [3]
The risk and severity of hair loss increase depending on the intensity and duration of hair traction.
Can Traction Alopecia Be Fixed Through Hair Transplant?
Yes, a hair transplant can indeed offer a viable solution, especially in cases of advanced traction alopecia, where the hair follicles have been permanently damaged or scarred. [4]
Traction alopecia occurs when constant tension is applied to the hair follicles due to tight hairstyles. Over time, this repeated stress leads to hair loss, and in severe cases, permanent follicle damage. In these situations, where the follicles are no longer capable of growing hair on their own, a hair transplant can be an effective treatment. [5]
This method is particularly recommended as a long-term or permanent solution for people who have exhausted other hair restoration treatments like topical solutions or medications with little or no success. [6]
How Does It Work?
The process of hair transplants for traction alopecia basically involves taking healthy, functioning hair grafts from an unaffected donor area of the scalp and transplanting them into recipient areas that have suffered from hair loss.
As in the image, FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant procedure starts with painles local anesthesia. (Step 1)
It is a minimally invasive method that involves extracting individual hair follicles from a donor area using a small, circular punch device. (Step 2)
The follicles are then carefully implanted into the areas affected by traction alopecia. (Step 3)
The major advantage of FUE is that it doesn’t require a large incision or removal of skin from the donor area, which results in less scarring and a shorter recovery time.
The small incisions made during the FUE procedure are typically so fine that they are barely noticeable after healing. [7]
Another benefit of FUE is its precision. As individual follicles are transplanted during this procedure, the surgeon can place them in the most natural direction, creating a more even and aesthetically pleasing result.
This technique is particularly useful for patients who have small or localized areas of hair loss and prefer a more refined, scar-free result.
Which Technique is Best for Traction Alopecia?
FUE is often an effective option for treating traction alopecia, especially for those looking for a minimally invasive procedure with less scarring and downtime.
In addition to the transplant itself, patients may also benefit from other complementary treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma therapy, to enhance the healing process and improve the growth of newly transplanted hair. [10]
Traction Alopecia Hair Transplant Before and After Results
What is the Main Difference of Afro-Textured Hair Transplant?
Afro-textured hair type presents unique challenges and considerations when it comes to hair transplants.
The texture of Afro hair can make the transplant process more complex because of its tendency to grow in different directions and its coiled nature, which requires a specific technique for extraction and implantation. [11]
The primary difference in Afro-textured hair transplant procedures is that the surgeon must take into account the curl pattern and ensure that the hair is transplanted in a way that aligns with the natural growth direction.
Additionally, the density and thickness of Afro hair require careful planning to ensure the transplanted hair grows naturally and blends seamlessly with the existing hair.
Experienced surgeons who specialize in Afro-textured hair are trained to handle these nuances, ensuring that the final results look as natural as possible.
How Much is a Hair Transplant for Traction Alopecia in Turkey?
On average, the cost of the hair transplant procedure for traction alopecia in Turkey ranges from $2,800 to $5,000.
In comparison, the same procedure can cost around $10,000 in Europe or the US, making Turkey 3 to 4 times more affordable.
However, the actual costs tend to vary depending on several factors, some of which include the extent of hair loss, the technique used, and the geographic location of the clinic.
Here are some factors that can influence the cost of the procedure:
Turkey has become a global hub for hair transplant procedures due to the availability of highly skilled surgeons and advanced clinics. The country offers affordable, high-quality treatments that attract thousands of patients each year from around the world.
When is It Too Late to Fix Traction Alopecia?
Traction alopecia can usually be treated effectively if addressed early. However, if left untreated for an extended period, the damage to the hair follicles can become permanent. In this case, hair regrowth may become very difficult or even impossible without a hair transplant.
If the hair follicles have been completely destroyed due to prolonged traction, it may be too late for a hair transplant to work. Also, in cases where the skin has become scarred or the follicles are no longer viable, a transplant may not be successful.
A qualified hair transplant surgeon can assess the degree of follicle damage and determine whether a transplant is a viable option. If scarring or extensive damage is present, other treatments, such as scalp micropigmentation or prosthetics, may be recommended instead.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Traction Alopecia Hair Transplant?
The best candidates for a hair transplant for traction alopecia are those who still have healthy hair follicles available in a donor area.
Ideally, the person should have a healthy scalp with no underlying medical conditions that could interfere with the transplant process.
The procedure is also suitable in cases where the hair loss has stabilized and the underlying cause (such as tight hairstyles) is no longer an issue.
Most importantly, patients should understand the potential results and limitations of the procedure, so that they have realistic expectations.
How Can You Prevent Traction Alopecia After a Transplant?
After undergoing a hair transplant for traction alopecia, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent further hair loss and maintain the results.
Here are some preventive measures you can take:
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Tight hairstyles are the common cause of traction alopecia. It can also affect the results of a hair transplant. Hence, avoid hairstyles that put tension on the hair follicles after the procedure and opt for looser styles to avoid stressing the newly transplanted hair. [12]
Healthy Lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those beneficial for hair health, will help support the growth of your transplanted hair and prevent further hair loss.
Maintain Healthy Scalp Care
Keep your scalp clean and free from buildup to prevent infections. Use mild shampoos and conditioners that don’t irritate the scalp.
Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care and attend follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of your hair transplant and address any potential issues.
How Long Does the Hair Transplant Recovery Take?
The recovery process after a hair transplant for traction alopecia can vary from person to person, depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s healing response.
However, the general timeline includes:
Initial Recovery (First Week)
After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, redness, and mild discomfort. The transplanted area will also scab over. It’s essential not to pick at these scabs to avoid dislodging the grafts.
The Shedding Phase (Weeks 2-6)
It’s normal for the transplanted hair to shed within the first few weeks. This is known as “shock loss,” and it’s temporary. New hair growth will typically begin after this phase. [13] [14]
Full Recovery (6-12 Months)
Over the next several months, the transplanted hair will begin to grow, with full results becoming apparent at around 6 to 12 months.
Conclusion
A hair transplant for traction alopecia can provide a permanent solution for those suffering from hair loss due to tight hairstyles. The success of the procedure depends on factors like the extent of hair loss, the health of the donor area, timely intervention, and the experience of the clinic. For patients with Afro-textured hair, the clinic’s expertise in handling this specific hair type is especially important, as it requires a tailored approach during both extraction and implantation. At Heva Clinic, we specialize in Afro hair transplantts. Feel free to browse our Afro Hair Transplant Before and After photos.
Once you’ve found the right clinic, maintaining overall health and keeping the scalp clean and healthy are key to enjoying long-lasting results.
References:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8530059/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262008/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29670386/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470434/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5896661/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9039860/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8202483/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32312502/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6795649/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35300222/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10521773/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8072502/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5839894/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6371733/
