Hair transplants are often pursued by those looking for a fuller, more youthful head of hair. The hair transplant procedure is a surgical one that involves moving individual hair follicles from one part of the body (referred to as the “donor site”) to a balding or fully bald part of the body that’s known as the “recipient site.” This process is used primarily to address the condition known as male pattern baldness.

However, those who are considering hair transplants to address their issues with thinning hair should be aware that there are definite hair transplant risks. The downsides and risks of hair transplant surgery are numerous; they include surgical risks, cost considerations, and the fact that future hair transplant treatments may be required in order to maintain the results. The downside of hair transplants can be outlined as follows:

1. Surgical Risks

Since hair transplant is a surgical process, all of the associated risks of surgery are in effect with this procedure. Surgical risks can include complications with anesthesia, excessive bleeding, blood clots, delayed healing, scarring and infection, among others.

2. Cost

Hair transplant surgery is not without financial risks as well. While exact cost can vary depending upon the extent of the procedure and geographical region where surgery is sought, WebMD estimates that the average cost of a hair transplant surgical procedure can range from $4,000 to $15,000.

3. Once May Not Be Enough

Compounding the cost issue is the fact that for hair transplants to be successful, the client may need to undergo future additional procedures if balding continues on other areas. This also compounds the surgical risk issue, as all of the risk factors associated with surgery will be in effect again if additional procedures are undergone.

While some individuals with thinning hair or issues with baldness do receive hair transplants that result in some measure of success, an optimal result is never guaranteed. There are also a number of hair transplant risks that should be considered before deciding to pursue the procedure. The downsides and risks of hair transplant include surgical dangers, cost, and the possibility of needing more surgeries down the road. Be sure and consult a medical professional if you have any questions about the potential downside of hair transplants. A professional can help you to determine how safe and viable this surgery might be in your particular case.