Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss on the scalp, face, and other areas of the body. For those affected by alopecia areata, finding a solution to restore lost hair can be a top priority. One popular hair restoration method is follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplantation. In this article, we’ll explore whether FUE hair transplantation can be performed on people with alopecia areata.
What is FUE Hair Transplantation?
FUE is a minimally invasive hair transplantation technique that involves the removal of individual hair follicles from the donor area, typically at the back of the head, and transplanting them to the recipient area, which is the area of hair loss. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes several hours to complete, depending on the extent of hair loss.
Can FUE Hair Transplantation Be Performed on People with Alopecia Areata?
The short answer is that it depends on the individual case. FUE hair transplantation can be a viable option for people with alopecia areata who have stable hair loss, meaning that the hair loss has not progressed for at least six months. FUE hair transplantation can be effective in restoring hair in areas of the scalp where hair loss has occurred due to alopecia areata.
It’s important to note that FUE hair transplantation may not be a suitable option for people with active alopecia areata, meaning that hair loss is continuing to progress. In these cases, the transplanted hair follicles may not be immune to the autoimmune attack and could result in a less favorable outcome.
Additionally, people with alopecia areata may have scarring or fibrosis in the areas of hair loss, which can make hair transplantation more challenging. In some cases, scalp micropigmentation or other hair restoration options may be recommended instead of FUE hair transplantation.
In conclusion, FUE hair transplantation can be a viable option for people with alopecia areata who have stable hair loss. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified hair restoration specialist to determine whether FUE hair transplantation is the right option for your specific case. People with active alopecia areata or scarring in the areas of hair loss may not be suitable candidates for FUE hair transplantation.