In a relatively simple and increasingly popular procedure, men who have trouble growing beards naturally now have the option to get beard transplants. Some plastic surgeons today are reporting that they are performing the same number of beard transplants in a week today than they would have done in months just a few years ago.
The Procedure
A beard transplant is exactly what it sounds like, and the procedure for performing one is pretty simple: a plastic surgeon removes hair from one part of the patient’s body (usually the back of their head) and implants it on their face. This can take anywhere from a few hours to one day. Usually, the procedure is done under local anesthetic, and patients are able to shave their new beards around two weeks afterwards. There are very few, rare side-effects (such as minor infection, a brief period of swelling, or ingrown hairs), and a patient can be given antibiotics to prevent infection. In New York, the procedure can cost as much as $8,500.
Reasons to get a Beard Transplant
Doctors have reported that their clients for beard transplants include men who have trouble growing a beard naturally, individuals undergoing female-to-male gender changes; Hasidic Jews who would like thicker sideburns, and in some cases, men who would like to cover facial scars. Others say they opt for beard transplants after their beards thin out, in an attempt to preserve their old appearance, and, in some cases, to try and create a youthful appearance.
The Surge in Popularity
Over the past few years, beard transplants have soared in popularity. There are a few speculated reasons for this. The first is that it is a social trend. As Christian Bryan presents a report for Newsy on beard transplants, he says it point-blank: “Beards are in.” In Hollywood, a lot of famous actors have full beards in most of their public appearances. Doctors report that a lot of patients who want beard transplants bring in pictures of models or actors to give an idea of what kind of beard they’re trying to grow. Others want beard transplants simply because the technology exists, and they are only now becoming aware of the procedure.
A Cultural Phenomenon
The prevailing opinion is that as beards have become more culturally acceptable, they have also become more popular. Trends like “Movember” and the increase of Hollywood actors sporting beards have resulted in a society that regards beards as being “fashionable,” and “in.” Some men report preferring to have beards because they find they get more attention from women when they have fully grown beards. Some have speculated that beards may become a male sex symbol because of the way they attract attention from women. With an argument like that, it’s not too difficult to imagine why men who can’t grow beards naturally would want such an easy, proven procedure as a beard transplant.
Whatever the cause, there is no doubt to the rising popularity of beard transplants. As awareness for the procedure grows, it is likely that the popularity of this procedure will continue to grow. So, for the time being, it seems as though there will be quite a few more men with very impressive beards wandering the streets.
Image Source: Flickr/Kevin Dooley
