Is hair growth on the neophallus possible after phalloplasty?

Yes, hair growth on the neophallus is possible after phalloplasty. However, it is not always guaranteed. The amount and distribution of hair growth will vary from person to person.

In general, hair growth on the neophallus is more likely to occur if the donor tissue for the phallus comes from an area of the body where there is already hair growth, such as the forearm or thigh. Hair growth is also more likely to occur if the person has a family history of hair growth in that area.

There are a few things that can affect the likelihood of hair growth on the neophallus. These include:

• The type of phalloplasty performed. Some types of phalloplasty are more likely to result in hair growth than others.
• The location of the donor tissue. As mentioned above, hair growth is more likely to occur if the donor tissue comes from an area of the body where there is already hair growth.
• The person’s age. Hair growth is more likely to occur in younger people than in older people.
• The person’s genetics. Some people are simply more likely to have hair growth than others.

Hair growth on the neophallus (the newly constructed penis) after phalloplasty is possible, but it depends on several factors, including the surgical technique used, individual anatomy, and the presence of hair follicles from the donor site. Here are some key considerations regarding hair growth on the neophallus:

1. Surgical Technique: The choice of surgical technique can impact whether or not hair growth occurs on the neophallus. Some techniques, like the radial forearm flap (RFF), typically result in less hair growth on the neophallus due to the hairless nature of the forearm. Other donor site options, like the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap or musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi (MLD) flap, may have a higher likelihood of hair growth.
2. Donor Site Hair Characteristics: If the donor site for the phalloplasty procedure has hair, there is a possibility that some of the hair follicles may be transplanted along with the tissue to the neophallus. For example, individuals who choose ALT or MLD flaps may have a higher likelihood of experiencing hair growth on the neophallus due to the presence of hair follicles in the thigh or back.
3. Hair Removal Techniques: Some individuals may choose to undergo hair removal procedures (e.g., laser hair removal or electrolysis) on the neophallus to reduce or eliminate any unwanted hair growth.
4. Customization: Surgeons work closely with individuals to customize the appearance of the neophallus, including hair placement and other aesthetic details. The goal is to create a phallus that aligns with the individual’s preferences and gender identity.