Using hair loss medication such as Finasteride and/or Minoxidil after a hair transplant is not strictly necessary – it will not affect the success of the procedure itself. But continuing (or starting) treatment after a transplant offers several benefits to maintain results and improve the overall look of a transplant long-term.
A lot of guys look to hair transplants to boost the density on their scalp. And while it’s easy to think of it as an either/or choice - medication or a transplant - it doesn’t really work like that. The two actually support each other. If you want the best results, a mix of surgery and the right medication is usually the strongest combo. Allow us to explain.
What’s the difference between a hair transplant and hair loss medication?
Hair loss medication is usually best suited for men with mild to moderate hair loss, whereas hair transplants may be preferable for men with more advanced hair loss who want to fill in thinning areas around their hairline. While hair loss medication can restore lost hair, it’s generally advised to use hair loss medication to stop hair loss rather than reverse it. When used together, Finasteride and Minoxidil Spray are effective in 94% at stopping hair loss. If you want to know more about how they work to stop hair loss, you can do some extra reading here.
Why medication post-transplant is recommended
Preserve existing non-transplanted hairs
The transplanted hairs are DHT-resistant, but the original hair is not. DHT-blocking medications like Finasteride or Dutasteride, and Minoxidil Spray/capsules can help prevent ongoing miniaturization and hair loss/thinning.
Improve overall appearance
By maintaining the hair around your transplant, medications help create a denser, fuller look. This can enhance the overall look and blend transplanted hair more naturally with native hair.
Maintains long-term results
Hair transplants are a permanent hair loss solution, but they don’t address the underlying cause of hair loss. Without treatment, surrounding hair may continue to recede, which can leave patchy areas around the transplanted grafts. Using medication helps slow further thinning and helps your transplant look good long-term.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
