Can I Get A Hair Transplant In My Beard For Alopecia Areata?

Written by H. Rahal, MD on February 13, 2008

I recently ( 6 months ago) developed alopecia areata of the beard. It seems to have stabilized as far as not progressing, but it is still very spotty everywhere. Can I get a transplant to fill in the bald areas?

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Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition that affects both male and female patients (more common in younger adults). In essence the body’s own immune system is attacking the hair follicles for no particular reason and it can be associated with other autoimmune diseases.

Alopecia Areata affects mostly the scalp but may also involve facial hair. We can distinguish it by observing spots on the scalp with no hair (under magnification we can see exclamation point shaped hairs). Most patients will regrow hair in those areas within a year, or may need a steroid type of treatment (with varying success).

Transplanting into active areas of Alopecia Areata is not recommended for the reason that the new hairs will also be attacked. After a period of time (years), it may be possible to transplant into dormant Alopecia Areata area. I suggest a small biopsy prior to transplantation to ensure the absence of activity. At six months, it is too early to expect a lasting outcome from surgery. I advice you to see a local dermatologist for medical treatment prior to surgical.

H. Rahal, MD
Member, International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons