Mustache transplantation is a procedure designed for men aged 24 and older who are dissatisfied with the density or shape of their mustache.
It involves transplanting hair follicles from other parts of the body to the upper lip area to enhance or restore facial hair. This is commonly achieved using the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) technique. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, taking 2-3 hours, and is minimally invasive, involving no significant pain or discomfort.
In the FUE technique, hair follicles are carefully extracted and implanted into the skin without causing trauma. Patients can decide the source of the hair follicles, typically from the back of the head, and the amount to be transplanted. These follicles are transplanted using precision instruments capable of creating incisions as small as 0.7 mm.
If any sparse areas remain after the initial transplantation, a follow-up procedure may be considered approximately four months later. Since mustache transplantation is a delicate procedure requiring precision, it should only be performed by experienced professionals to avoid undesirable results.
Are You a Candidate for Mustache Transplantation?
One of the key considerations before undergoing mustache transplantation is determining your eligibility.
This procedure is not limited to individuals with naturally sparse mustache growth but is also suitable for those who have lost facial hair due to injuries, burns, or scars. Men who are unhappy with their mustache density and meet the criteria for the procedure, such as having a sufficient donor area, may consider mustache transplantation. Whether you meet the conditions for the procedure will be assessed through medical tests at the clinic.
Steps of Mustache Transplantation
Mustache transplantation, similar to hair transplantation, is more sensitive as it is performed on the facial area. Extra caution is necessary to avoid scars or complications.
- Preparation and Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to the upper lip area to ensure a pain-free experience.
- Donor Area Selection: Hair is typically extracted from the back of the head. In some cases, arm or leg hair may be used as donor hair.
- FUE Extraction: Using micromotors, individual hair follicles are extracted one by one.
- Hair Follicle Collection: Between 300 and 500 follicles are gathered depending on the level of sparsity or complete absence of mustache hair.
- Implantation: The collected follicles are cleaned and implanted into the tiny incisions made in the mustache area.
- Post-Procedure Care: The transplanted area is left open, while a bandage is applied to the donor area for three days. The transplanted area should not be washed during this period.
- Recovery Process: Healing takes approximately 10 days. During this time, the transplanted follicles form scabs, which start to shed around the third day after the first wash.
For individuals with no natural mustache growth, a single procedure may not be sufficient. A second transplantation may be performed 8-9 months later, after the initial follicles have fully taken root. The transplanted hair can be trimmed with scissors after 15 days.
A temporary shedding phase may occur 2-3 weeks post-transplantation. By the fourth month, new growth begins, and the mustache continues to grow naturally. Full results can be seen within six months.
Causes of Mustache Hair Loss
Several factors can contribute to mustache hair loss, including:
- Alopecia Areata: This condition, commonly associated with hair loss, can also affect facial hair, leading to patchy mustache growth.
- Scars and Injuries: Deep wounds in the upper lip area can damage hair follicles, preventing growth. Immediate medical attention for such injuries can minimize long-term effects.
- Trichotillomania: Habitual pulling of facial hair can damage follicles over time, resulting in uneven or sparse growth.
- Infections and Inflammation: Persistent acne or other infections in the upper lip area can lead to follicle damage if left untreated.
- Psoriasis: This skin condition can harm hair follicles, causing significant hair loss if not managed early.
For individuals experiencing mustache loss due to these factors, transplantation offers a reliable solution. Additionally, eyebrow transplantation is another cosmetic option available at our clinic to enhance facial aesthetics.
