I’m planning to get a hair transplant in the future, but I don’t want to keep using minoxidil afterward. Since minoxidil makes my hair look thicker, the doctor might not fill areas where it’s helping now. But if I stop using it after the transplant, those minoxidil-dependent hairs may fall out, leaving gaps. Should I stop minoxidil 6 months before the transplant so my real hairline and thinning areas show, and then get the transplant and quit minoxidil for good?
If you want to understand your real hair density before a transplant, stopping minoxidil 6 months prior might help, but you’ll likely see some shedding. If you’re set on quitting after the transplant, be ready for the chance your minoxidil-dependent hairs may thin out. Post-surgery, some keep using min to support hair growth. Consider your appearance goals and consult your surgeon about the plan.