Does Hair Transplant Cause Cancer?

25 November, 2024 | Hair Transplant | Author : Shveta Virmani

There are so many misconceptions associated with hair transplants. So, if you plan to opt for the treatment, you first need to understand the difference between myth vs reality. A hair transplant is the surgery where professionals move hair from one part of your head to another. The hair is usually taken from the back of your scalp and put in areas where you lose hair, like the front or top. But some people are worried and ask – does hair transplant cause cancer?

Does Hair Transplant Cause Cancer?

Cancer is when cells in the body start to grow too quickly and out of control. A hair transplant does not involve changing the cells. It only moves hair from one spot to another.

So, the answer is no; a hair transplant does not cause cancer. But, like any surgery, there can be other side effects you should know about.

Understanding the Side Effects of Hair Transplantation

Are there any side-effects after hair transplantation? There can be side effects after a hair transplant. They are usually mild and go away on their own. Here are some common ones:

Swelling

Patients may experience swelling on the scalp after the procedure, but this is usually mild and goes away on its own.

Pain

There can be some pain or discomfort in the areas where the hair was taken from and where it was transplanted. This tends to be manageable with over-the-counter pain medications.

Infection

If the surgical sites are not properly cared for and kept clean, there is a risk of infection developing. This can typically be treated with antibiotics.

Scarring

In some cases, minor scarring may occur, though skilled surgeons are able to minimise this.

These side effects are usually temporary. In rare cases, people might experience numbness or tingling on their scalp. If these problems do not go away, you should see your doctor.

Is There Any Link between Cancer Treatment and Hair Transplant?

People facing hair loss caused due to chemotherapy cancer treatment may think about getting a hair transplant. If you have had cancer treatment and want a hair transplant, you should wait until your doctor says it is safe.

Hair Transplant Gone Wrong: What To Do In Such Scenario?

Sometimes, a hair transplant does not turn out the way you expect. This can happen if you go to a clinic that does not have experienced doctors. Signs of a problem might include:

Noticeable Scarring

Inexperienced surgeons may make incisions or extraction sites that leave behind very visible scarring, which can be difficult to conceal, even with hair growth. This can be especially problematic for patients with shorter hairstyles.

Unnatural-Looking Hair

If the transplanted hair is not placed skillfully or in the proper direction, it can end up looking unnatural and out of place on the scalp. This can result in an obvious "pluggy" or "doll's hair" appearance that defeats the purpose of the procedure.

Persistent Infection or Inflammation

Improper surgical technique or inadequate post-op care can lead to ongoing issues like redness, swelling, and infection at the transplant sites. This can cause pain and interrupt the healing process.

The key is to select a highly experienced, board-certified hair restoration surgeon who has a proven track record of natural-looking results and minimal complications. Doing thorough research on the clinic and doctor's qualifications is crucial before undergoing any hair transplant procedure.

If this happens, do not worry. It's called a revision surgery. To avoid problems, always choose a trusted clinic with skilled doctors, especially if you are getting a hair transplant in Delhi or any other busy city.

How Safe Is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant is generally a safe procedure. It has been done for many years, and many people have had good results. Here's what you need to know:

Infection Risk

The risk of infection following a hair transplant procedure is generally quite low, typically around 1-2% when proper precautions are taken. Experienced surgeons use sterile techniques and prescribe antibiotics to patients to minimise the chances of infection.

Scarring

Some degree of scarring is a common outcome of hair transplant surgery, as the implantation of new hair grafts requires making small incisions in the scalp. However, the scarring is typically quite minimal and tends to fade over time as the hair grows in. Skilled surgeons utilise advanced techniques like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) that result in less noticeable scars compared to older strip excision methods.

Swelling

Temporary swelling of the scalp is a typical side effect experienced immediately following a hair transplant procedure. This swelling is usually mild to moderate in nature and will generally resolve within a few days to a week as the healing process progresses. Surgeons may prescribe medications like corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation and swelling in the initial post-op period.

Conclusion

There is no proof that a hair transplant causes cancer, but it's always smart to talk to your doctor about any worries you have before the surgery.

You might still wonder if there is any risk of cancer from a hair transplant. This surgery is considered safe, and the chances of it causing cancer are very low. If you are healthy and choose a good clinic, you can enjoy the benefits of a fuller head of hair without worrying about cancer.

If you are thinking about a hair transplant in Delhi, take your time to find a clinic with a good reputation.

So, does hair transplant cause cancer? The answer is no. While there can be side effects, they are usually mild and go away. Cancer is not one of the risks linked with hair transplants.Hair loss can be stressful, but there are solutions that work. A hair transplant is one of them, and it does not cause cancer.