Beard implant: what it is, when to do it, care and complications

Beard implantation is a procedure that involves removing hair from the scalp and placing it on the area of ​​the face, where the beard grows.

Generally, beard implants are recommended for men who have little hair in their beard for genetic reasons or due to an accident, such as a burn to the face.

To have a beard implant, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist who will indicate the most appropriate surgical techniques for each case. New beard implant techniques have been developed, ensuring a more natural appearance and causing fewer complications after the procedure.

When to do the implant

Beard implants can be done by any man, but are generally performed on men who have a sparse beard or who have a scar on their face that they would like to cover.

How is done

Beard implantation is performed by a dermatologist, a surgery specialist, in a hospital or clinic. This procedure is carried out using local anesthesia and consists of removing hair, mainly from the scalp, which is implanted on the face, in the area where the beard is missing and can be carried out using two techniques, which are:

• Follicular unit extraction: also known as FUE, is the most common type and consists of removing one hair at a time, from the scalp, and implanting one by one in the beard. It is the type indicated for correcting small flaws in the beard;
• Follicular unit transplantation: It can be called FUT and it is a technique that removes a small part where the hair grows from the scalp and then this part is introduced into the beard. This technique allows a large amount of hair to be implanted into the beard.

Regardless of the technique used, there are no scars in the region where the hair was removed and new hair grows in this area. In addition, the doctor implants the hair on the face in a specific way so that it grows in the same direction and looks natural. These techniques are very similar to the techniques used in hair transplantation. See more about how hair transplantation is performed.

Care after implantation

In the first 5 days after having a beard implant, it is not recommended to wash your face, as keeping the area dry allows the hair to heal in the correct position. Furthermore, it is not recommended to use a razor on your face, at least in the first few weeks, as it can cause injuries and bleeding in the area.

The doctor may prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatories that should be taken as directed, as they prevent infection and relieve pain at the implant site. It is generally not necessary to remove the stitches, as the body absorbs them itself.

It is common for areas of the scalp and face to become red in the first two weeks, and it is not necessary to apply any type of ointment or cream.

Possible complications

Beard implant techniques are increasingly developed and therefore complications in this type of procedure are very rare. However, there may be situations where the hair grows irregularly, giving the appearance of flaws or areas of the scalp or face may become swollen, so it is important to return for follow-up appointments with the doctor.

Furthermore, it is important to seek medical attention quickly if symptoms such as fever or bleeding appear, as these may be signs of infection.