I Don’t Want Shock Loss, But I Don’t Want to Take Drugs

I am a 25 year old male due to have a hair transplant in a months time mainly to restructure my hairline, but also to thicken my hair on top.

I am worried about shock loss to my thinning hair on top. I am aware you recommend propecia to prevent this, however I do not wish to take any hairloss drugs due to the associated side effects. After telling this to my surgeon he suggested that I treat my recipient areas with minoxidil every day during the week before my transplant, and then to continue it 3 days after my op.

In your opinion does this sound like a good idea? I have not taken minoxidil before. I have read that minoxidil should be avoided for 1-2 weeks after a transplant? Also how long do you think I should continue taking this after my procedure to minimise the chances of shock loss?

Many thanks

I don’t think minoxidil will prevent shock loss to the same degree as Propecia (if at all), which a 25 year old is prone to following transplantation. Just thinking about side effects and experiencing them are different. Most men (98 out of a 100) will not have negative sexual side effects. You can try minoxidil since you are not willing to take Propecia. You clearly have a big decision, considering the investment you are about to make.

I’d suggest that you didn’t use minoxidil directly on the recipient area for 5-7 days following the transplant, but I don’t really have a recommendation of how long to take minoxidil to prevent shock hair loss (as I stated, I’m not sure it’ll do much for preventing shock loss anyway). You may want to discuss this with your surgeon and come up with a good plan tailored for your particular needs.