Which Is Better – Hair Transplant Or Hair Replacement System?

Updated 28 October 2026

Which is better depends on your donor hair and how soon you want results. A hair transplant is surgery that moves your own follicles and takes about six months to show; a non-surgical hair replacement system gives you a full head of hair the day it is fitted, with no surgery or recovery time. At Cochrane & Co in London we fit hair systems for men, starting at £699 supplied, fitted, cut and styled.

A receding hairline can be caused by many factors including age, family history, health issues and stress, and it can affect men and women of all ages. A hair system is not a cure for hair loss: it is non-invasive, drug-free and non-medical, which is why many men choose it over surgery.

Treatment may be with surgery or other management options: hair transplant is a surgical method of moving hair follicles from a productive area to the balding area. Hair replacement systems are non-surgical solutions that are becoming increasingly popular. So, which is better – hair transplant or hair replacement? Find out more here…

Hair Transplant Facts

Hair transplant is a common treatment for male baldness and can also be carried out for eyelashes and eyebrows. It’s often not an option for older men as covering large bald areas with this technique is difficult. There are also other disadvantages of hair transplant which include:

  • Unsuitability for patients with limited healthy donor hair follicles
  • Risks of infection and scarring
  • No instant results as it can take about six months for the hair to look different
  • Potential hair loss after the transplant – known as shock loss
  • Time-consuming and costly

However, the positives are natural growth and look of the hair giving improved self-confidence and esteem. And it’s one time and permanent.

Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Details

Non-surgical hair replacement is prevalent in helping to treat people with extensive hair loss. Part or all of the scalp is shaved to allow the attachment for the hair system – with special adhesive glues. The hair is human or synthetic weaved into the membrane mesh.

Pros and cons of non-surgical hair replacement are listed below:

Advantages

  • Instant restoration results without any waiting
  • No painful surgery involved and no recovery time
  • Suitable for both temporary and permanent hair loss
  • No donor hair required
  • Custom-made systems allow a choice of hair colour, style, texture, and density
  • Versatility and affordable costs

Disadvantages

  • Requires a small amount of daily maintenance
  • Needs a visit to a specialist salon for a haircut every 6–8 weeks and a Refit & Style about every 12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a hair replacement system last?

Depending on your lifestyle, most men replace their hair system every 3–6 months, with a Refit & Style every 12 weeks in between.

Can you swim with a hair replacement system?

Yes, you can but bear in mind that chlorine may fade the colour more quickly and possibly break down the bond

Can you shower with a hair replacement system?

Yes, you can. You’ll need to use shampoos and conditioners without sulphate which help prolong the life of the system

Visit the Specialists

Cochrane & Co has specialised in hair systems for men in London since 1996: our team of 4 hair system experts has fitted over 10,000 systems. Every new client starts with a consultation, in our salon at 37 Lambs Conduit Street, London WC1N 3NG, or online, where we talk through whether a hair system suits you before anything is fitted. Call 020 7405 7797 or see our hair systems and prices.

The unique systems used are made of micro-thin artificial skin with the highest-grade implants of human hair. The hairline is invisible at the front – and the finished look is believable and completely natural. You’ll instantly get back your confidence with this wonderful transformation.

Non surgical hair replacement in london

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