Introduction
In recent years, the demand for beard transplantation has been on the rise in New York City. Whether it's due to genetics, aging, or other factors that result in thin or patchy facial hair, many individuals are turning to beard transplant procedures to achieve a fuller and more masculine appearance. Having a well - groomed beard can boost self - confidence and change one's overall look. However, finding a well - reputed doctor for beard transplantation is crucial for a successful and satisfactory outcome. This article aims to provide a comprehensive public list of such doctors in New York City, along with detailed information about the procedure, candidates, and what to expect.
Understanding Beard Transplantation
What is a Beard Transplant?
A beard hair transplant is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring hair in areas where facial hair growth is thin or missing. It involves taking hairs from the back and sides of the head, where the hair is genetically programmed not to fall out, and moving them, usually one by one using the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method, into the desired locations on the beard. This process is similar to a scalp hair transplant, but the recipient site, as well as the angles and direction of hair growth, are different.
Beards are not only a sign of masculinity but also a statement of personal style. However, not everyone can grow the thick mustache, goatee, or full beard they desire. A beard transplant is the only permanent way to enhance the beard in a natural - looking manner.
Who is a Good Candidate for Beard Transplant?
An ideal candidate for a beard transplant must have sufficient donor hairs on the scalp to be transplanted. It's important to note that the donor supply is limited, and patients should be aware that their scalp hair might thin over time as well. In addition to those looking to enhance the density of their natural beard, candidates may also include:
- Individuals who have had their facial hair removed previously with laser hair removal and want to restore it.
- People seeking reparative work to cover scars from various causes such as burns, injuries, or surgeries.
- Members of the LGBT community who wish to create a more masculine appearance.
Types of Beard Transplants
There are various types of beard hair designs, and patients often come to the clinic with a specific pattern in mind. Some common beard styles include:
Beard Style | Description |
---|---|
Chin Strap Style Beard | A thin beard that circles the chin. |
Lumberjack Style Beard | A thick and full beard, often with long hair. |
Handlebar Mustache | A mustache with long, curled ends. |
Van Dyke Beard | A combination of a goatee and a mustache, with no beard on the cheeks. |
Pencil Mustache | A thin, narrow mustache. |
Goatee | Beard on the chin, usually without a mustache. |
The overall beard transplant approach is similar for these styles, but the number of grafts needed can vary significantly depending on the design, pre - existing hair, and thickness of the donor hair.
The Procedure: How is a Beard Transplant Done?
Pre - procedure
At the initial appointment, the doctor will assess the patient's overall medical health to ensure they are safe to undergo the beard transplant. This is important as local anesthesia and other oral medications are used during the procedure. Patients are also advised to:
- Stop all supplements and over - the - counter medications that can thin the blood, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
- Consider taking vitamin C and vitamin K a week before the procedure to improve healing and minimize bleeding.
- Shower the night before or the morning of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
The doctor will also listen to the patient's desired appearance for the beard, assess the donor area, and estimate the approximate graft count required for the transplant. They will then select either the FUE or Follicular Unit Transfer (FUT) method.
During the Procedure
Most patients opt for the FUE approach as it avoids a linear scar, allowing them to wear a short haircut at any time without noticeable scars. In the FUE method:
- The hairs are first extracted (or harvested) from the donor area on the back or sides of the scalp as grafts.
- At the recipient beard area, recipient sites are made with a blade or needle at the correct angle and direction.
- The previously removed hairs are then placed into these recipient sites one at a time.
The overall process may take a few hours for smaller cases, up to a full day for larger cases, and occasionally may require an extra day. A lunch break is usually provided for longer procedures.
Post - procedure
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and considerations during the recovery phase. The most important precaution is to not get the transplanted hairs wet for the first five days to allow them to set in the proper orientation and eventually grow. After about three weeks, the shafts of the transplanted hairs will usually fall out, and hair regrowth starts at 4 - 6 months, with final results assessed at 1 year. Shaving of the beard is possible after 10 days. Oral and topical antibiotics are provided to prevent infection.
Risks and Complications of Beard Transplant
Although beard transplant procedures are generally safe, there are some potential risks and complications, including:
- Poor Angulation: Despite efforts to use an acute angle to the skin surface when making recipient sites and placing grafts, occasionally grafts may grow at a more perpendicular angle, and some may need to be removed.
- Bump Formation: The main area at risk of small bump formation is the goatee area under the lower lip. These can be difficult to correct.
- Poor Regrowth: As with any hair transplant, poor regrowth is possible but rare. The face has a good blood supply, which typically results in excellent hair regrowth.
- Cysts: Inclusion cysts can form in the transplanted beard area, although this is very rare. They may need to be incised and drained or removed.
Contraindications for Beard Transplant
There are certain medical conditions that may make a beard transplant unsuitable, such as:
- Medical conditions that are not compatible with local anesthesia containing epinephrine.
- Scarring alopecias or autoimmune alopecia areata, in which the body will continue to try and destroy the hair follicles.
- Not having enough donor supply of hairs to transplant.
Alternatives to Beard Transplant
If a beard transplant is not an option, there are some alternatives available:
- Rogaine (Minoxidil): A topical solution or foam that can be applied to thicken the hairs. However, the effect will only last as long as the minoxidil is applied.
- Hair Growth Vitamins and Supplements: Taking biotin - based supplements may help partially restore both scalp hair and beard hair.
- Tattoo: This is a rare option but can be considered. However, it has its drawbacks, such as lack of natural look and potential for fading or scarring.
The Public List of Well - Reputed Doctors for Beard Transplantation in New York City
Jeffrey Epstein, MD, FACS
Jeffrey Epstein is a hair restoration surgeon who is board - certified in facial plastic surgery. He has 30 years of experience and holds 3 board certifications. He accepts virtual consultations and offers gender - affirming care. With 225 reviews on RealSelf, patients have reported that he is exceptional at beard transplantation. One patient shared their experience of a laser procedure on the face in January 2020 where the esthetician made an error, but Dr. Epstein's expertise was commended. His office is located at 60 E. 56th St., 3rd fl., New York, New York.
Gary Linkov, MD
Gary Linkov is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon with 10 years of experience and 2 board certifications. He accepts virtual consultations. There are 129 reviews on RealSelf, and patients have praised his and his staff's care. One patient mentioned that they had a cozy family vibe when getting a beard FUE procedure, and the staff made them feel at home. He works at City Facial Plastics in Midtown, Manhattan, and his office is at 635 Madison Ave., Ste. 1402 E, New York, New York. He is considered one of the best in the field, with in - depth knowledge of FUE (including body hair transplant) and an experienced team that allows for a relatively quick recovery.
Dilip D. Madnani, MD, FACS
Dilip D. Madnani is a facial plastic surgeon, board - certified in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery. He has 17 years of experience and 2 board certifications. With 321 reviews on RealSelf, patients have reported excellent experiences. One patient had a face and neck lift with Dr. Madnani and was extremely satisfied with the results, praising his amazing staff for being professional, courteous, and accommodating. His office is at 800a Fifth Ave., Ste. 301, New York, New York, which is associated with Madnani Facial Plastics.
William Lao, MD
William Lao is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience and 1 board certification. He accepts virtual consultations. There are 108 reviews on RealSelf, and patients have described him as a really professional doctor, very patient, and with superb surgical skills. He will communicate in detail with patients before the operation, weighing the pros and cons. His office is located at 535 Fifth Ave., 32nd fl., New York, New York.
John E. Frank, MD
John E. Frank is a board - certified hair restoration surgeon with 24 years of experience and 2 board certifications. He accepts virtual consultations. With 77 reviews on RealSelf, a patient had a 6 - month update after an eyebrow transplant and reported that it exceeded all expectations, feeling liberated as they could wake up and go without any concerns. His office is at 110 E. 60th st., Ste. 908, New York, New York.
Yael Halaas, MD
Yael Halaas is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon with 22 years of experience and 2 board certifications. She accepts virtual consultations. There are 75 reviews on RealSelf, and one patient shared their experience of developing wrinkles under the eyes and finding creams useless. After seeking treatment with Dr. Halaas, they were looking forward to positive results.
George Lefkovits, MD
George Lefkovits is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 42 years of experience and 2 board certifications. He accepts virtual consultations. With 68 reviews on RealSelf, a patient had a tummy tuck and back roll lipo and was extremely satisfied with the results, even at 12 days post - op. His office is at 9 E. 62nd st., New York, New York.
Carlos K. Wesley, MD
Carlos K. Wesley is a board - certified hair restoration surgeon with 16 years of experience and 1 board certification. He accepts virtual consultations. There are 15 reviews on RealSelf, and patients have praised him and his entire staff, stating that they are pioneers in the industry. One patient said that the transplant was a breeze, and they attended follow - up appointments with the staff after the procedure. His office is at 1050 Fifth Ave., Ste. 1 h, New York, New York.
Jeffrey B. Wise, MD, FACS
Jeffrey B. Wise is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon with 17 years of experience and 2 board certifications. He accepts virtual consultations. With 483 reviews on RealSelf, a patient had a beard transplant surgery a year ago and really loved their new beard and look, reporting that the surgery and experience were good with great results. His office is at 1680 Rte. 23, Ste. 120, Wayne, New Jersey, which is within a reasonable distance for New York City residents.
Christine M. Shaver, MD
Christine M. Shaver is a board - certified dermatologist with 6 years of experience and 1 board certification. She accepts virtual consultations. With 6 reviews on RealSelf, a patient believed that she was the only doctor who had their best interest at heart, compared to three other doctors they had seen. Her office is at 110 E. 55th st., fl 11, New York, New York.
Ziering Medical
Ziering Medical offers world - class facial hair transplant surgery. They have been the #1 choice for hair and beard transplant surgery in New York City for over 20 years, with additional clinics in Beverly Hills, CA, and Greenwich, CT. Their team, including celebrity hair transplant surgeon Dr. Craig Ziering, has over 75 years of combined surgical experience, has performed 50,000+ hair restoration surgeries, and transplanted over 100 million hair grafts. They offer natural - looking results, can camouflage scars, provide customized treatment, a permanent solution, and enhance self - confidence. Their New York City office is at 110 East 60th Street, Suite 702, New York, NY, 10022.
StudioMD
StudioMD has 20 + years of hair restoration experience. Their team includes Maria Rivera, RN (clinical director and trainer), Dr. Roy B. Stoller, DO (board - certified facial plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience in hair restoration medicine and surgery), Dr. Khan, MD (medical aesthetics specialist with over 15 years of experience in FUE and FUT hair transplants, etc.), and Dr. Louis Mariotti, DO (board - certified specialist in facial plastic and head and neck surgery, fellowship - trained in hair restoration medicine and surgery). They use Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) technology and offer natural - looking results. Patient testimonials on their website show satisfaction with the procedure and results.
FUESion Hair Clinics
FUESion Hair Clinics is renowned for innovation, precision, and affordability in beard transplantation. They use AI - enhanced transplantation, with an AI camera with 50x zoom to identify the healthiest donor follicles and AR glasses for perfect placement of grafts. Their FUESion X system combines a robotic arm with human control. They offer customized beard design, comprehensive aftercare and support, and have a high graft survival rate with minimal scarring. They have two flagship clinics in NYC (Brooklyn and Queens) and a growing network of locations across the US. Patients have shared positive testimonials about their expertise and the results of their beard transplants.
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery in Manhattan offers premier facial hair restoration services for mustache and beard transplants. Their expert team has extensive experience performing successful transplants. They offer both FUE and FUT methods. During the consultation, they will design a treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs. Patients can expect to recover and resume most activities within a few days, with real hair growth starting within 3 - 4 months. Their office is at 110 E 60th st #908, New York, NY 10022.
Conclusion
Beard transplantation can be a life - changing procedure for those looking to enhance their facial hair and boost their self - confidence. In New York City, there are many well - reput