Medically Reviewed by Dr Ali, FRCP (Edinburgh), FRCP (London), MBBS, MRCS, LRCP, DCH, DRCOG, MRCGP
Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a type of scarring alopecia that primarily impacts the hairline, leading to progressive hair loss. While hair transplants can be an effective solution for certain types of hair loss, they are generally not suitable for FFA. At HHC, we strongly advise against considering hair transplants for this condition for several important reasons.
1. FFA is Progressive
- Why It’s a Concern: FFA is a progressive condition, meaning it continues to worsen over time. The hair loss doesn’t stop, and the underlying cause—the destruction of hair follicles—remains active. While a hair transplant might seem like a quick fix, the disease will likely continue to cause hair loss in areas even after the procedure.
- The Trap: Transplanted hair may eventually fall out as the condition progresses, leading to frustration and wasted resources.
2. Scarring and Follicle Destruction
- Why It’s a Concern: FFA causes scarring that permanently damages hair follicles, making them unable to regenerate. Hair transplants require healthy, viable follicles to thrive, and scarring on the scalp doesn’t allow for this.
- The Trap: Attempting to transplant hair into scarred areas can be ineffective, as the follicles won’t take root, and the transplanted hair will not grow.
3. Ongoing Inflammation
- Why It’s a Concern: FFA is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the hair follicles. If left untreated, the inflammation will continue, potentially affecting newly transplanted hair.
- The Trap: Even if the transplant is initially successful, the inflammation associated with FFA may lead to the rejection or loss of transplanted hair over time.
4. Medical Treatments are the Key
- Why It’s a Concern: FFA requires medical treatment to manage inflammation and prevent further hair loss. Topical treatments, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants can help control the condition and prevent it from worsening.
- The Trap: Turning to a hair transplant without addressing the underlying cause of FFA will not solve the problem and may only offer temporary cosmetic benefits, without addressing the root of the issue.
5. Risk of Worsening Scarring
- Why It’s a Concern: Any surgical procedure, including hair transplants, carries the risk of causing additional inflammation or scarring. In patients with FFA, this could lead to further damage to the scalp and worsening of the condition.
- The Trap: A hair transplant could inadvertently trigger more scarring or flare-ups, making the problem worse rather than providing a solution.
Conclusion: Don’t Fall Into the Trap
At HHC, we understand that hair loss can be a frustrating and emotional experience, but it’s crucial to approach conditions like FFA with the right treatment. Hair transplants are not the solution for frontal fibrosing alopecia, and pursuing them can lead to more harm than good. Instead, medical treatments aimed at controlling inflammation and slowing the progression of hair loss are the most effective way to manage the condition.
If you’re experiencing hair loss or suspect FFA, we recommend scheduling a free consultation with our experienced physicians. We’ll help you understand the best approach for your condition, focusing on long-term results and overall scalp health. Don’t fall into the trap—trust the experts at HHC for the right guidance and care.
📞 Call us today at Nottingham 0115 897 6696 or London 0203 500 4604 or Schedule a Consultation Online to take the first step toward thicker, healthier hair!
