PRP vs Hair Transplant
PRP and hair transplants serve different purposes: PRP thickens existing hair and slows loss, while transplants move hair to bald areas. Many patients benefit from both—PRP to strengthen existing hair, transplant to restore areas with no hair. The best choice depends on your hair loss stage.
Quick Comparison
PRP:
Non-surgical
Thickens existing hair
Slows hair loss
From £545 per session
No downtime
Best for early-moderate loss
Hair Transplant:
Surgical procedure
Moves hair to bald areas
Permanent results
£4,000-15,000
1-2 weeks recovery
Best for established baldness
When to Choose PRP
PRP is ideal if:
You have thinning hair (not complete baldness)
Hair loss is early to moderate (Norwood 2-4)
You want to preserve existing hair
You're not ready for surgery
You want to delay or avoid transplant
You want non-invasive treatment
Budget is a concern
PRP works by stimulating existing follicles. It cannot create hair where follicles are completely dead.
When to Choose Hair Transplant
Hair transplant is better if:
You have significant bald areas
Hair loss is advanced (Norwood 5-7)
You want permanent restoration to bald areas
You have sufficient donor hair
You're willing to undergo surgery
You can afford higher cost
Hair transplant works by moving hair follicles from donor area (back/sides) to bald areas.
Combining PRP and Hair Transplant
Most transplant surgeons recommend PRP alongside transplants.
Before Transplant:
PRP strengthens existing hair
May reduce how many grafts needed
Improves scalp health
After Transplant:
PRP enhances graft survival
Speeds healing
Improves overall density
Ongoing:
PRP maintains non-transplanted hair
Prevents further loss requiring additional transplants
Cost Comparison
PRP (5 years):
Initial course: £1,500
Maintenance: £1,000/year x 4 = £4,000
Total: ~£5,500
Hair Transplant:
Surgery: £5,000-15,000
Often need PRP anyway: £3,000-5,000
Total: ~£8,000-20,000
The Honest Answer
For most people with early-moderate hair loss, start with PRP. It's lower cost, non-surgical, and may be all you need.
If PRP isn't enough or you have significant bald areas, consider transplant—but continue PRP to protect remaining hair.
Don't wait too long. PRP works best when started early. If you wait until you're Norwood 6, PRP alone won't help much.
Book PRP Consultation
Find out if PRP is right for your hair loss stage.
The London PRP Clinic. Expert advice on your hair restoration options.
