What is a beard transplant?
A beard transplant is a medical procedure that aims to reconstruct, thicken, or define facial hair where growth is sparse or absent. The procedure is appropriate for men who want to have a full, thick beard, or simply to address specific areas such as the moustache, cheeks, or chin.
This advanced and safe method offers natural, permanent results, customised for facial features and personal styles.
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An overview of the beard transplant procedure
The procedure consists of extracting follicular units from a donor site and transplanting them to the facial hair region.
The most common donor area is the occipital region of the scalp (the back of the head), but the final choice of donor area is assessed on an individual basis according to the patient’s characteristics. The aim is to ensure compatibility in terms of hair thickness, colour and texture in order to achieve a harmonious result.
How does it work?
The initial consultation includes a facial design that respects facial anatomy, preferences, and natural growth patterns. This step is key to achieving a symmetrical, attractive and natural-looking beard.
Local anaesthesia is administered to both the donor and recipient areas, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free procedure.
The procedure involves extracting the follicles individually. When using follicles from the scalp, units containing 1 or 2 hairs are carefully selected, as these are best suited for the beard.
For the procedure, micro-incisions are made in the beard area, following the natural direction, angle and density of the facial hair. The follicular units are then carefully implanted to achieve a natural result, with no visible marks or scars.
Types of beard transplants
The transplant can be adapted to different areas and needs:
Depending on the area to be treated:
- Moustache: Ideal for defining contours or filling in gaps
- Cheekbones or cheeks: Adds density and uniformity
- Chin or goatee: Improves shape and volume
- Full beard: For those with no beard or very sparse facial hair
Depending on the donor area:
- Occipital area (back of the head): Strong hair with a good survival rate
- Neck area: In some cases, this may provide a texture more similar to facial hair
Pre-transplant preparation
To ensure the success of the procedure and an optimal recovery, we recommend:
- Avoiding caffeine for at least 72 hours beforehand
- Refrain from drinking alcohol 3 to 5 days before the procedure
- Stop smoking at least one week beforehand (this improves oxygenation and healing)
Preoperative skin preparation is typically non-essential, except in cases of psoriasis or seborrhoeic dermatitis where a prescribed pre-treatment is required.
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Postoperative
Recovery following a beard transplant is quick and straightforward. Although the procedure is not painful, it is normal to experience:
- Mild swelling of the face for the first 2–3 days
- Itching in the transplanted area, which can be relieved with thermal water or saline solution
- Minor scabbing on each graft during the first week
Initial scabbing clears within days, followed by a temporary shedding phase; permanent, natural growth then begins from month three or four.
Results after the transplant
The final result of a beard transplant is visible between 3 and 4 months after the procedure. During this time:
- The hair begins to grow naturally and gradually
- It can be trimmed, shaved or left to grow just like the rest of the beard
- The grafted area blends in perfectly with the rest of the facial hair
F.A.Q.
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Is a beard transplant permanent?
Yes. Once the implanted follicles have settled into their new location, they produce hair permanently, just as they did in their original area.
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How long does a beard transplant take?
The procedure takes an average of 4 to 6 hours, depending on the number of follicular units to be transplanted. It is carried out in a single session and the patient goes home the same day.
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When is a beard transplant the right option?
Beard transplants are suitable for any man who:
- Has sparse or no beard growth
- Wishes to improve the shape of his beard or fill in gaps
- Has a suitable donor area (scalp or neck)
- Is of legal age and in good general health
Suitability is optimal between ages 20 and 50, although excellent results are achievable for older individuals, subject to medical assessment.