Chris Bumstead Gets Hair Transplant After Olympia Win
By: Jeremy Fox CNC, CPT
Updated: October 15, 2024
Less than a month after winning his 5th Mr. Olympia title, Chris Bumstead traveled to Turkey to undergo a hair transplant procedure. This has raised questions about why he decided to do it and how it might impact his future in bodybuilding. Let’s take a closer look.
Chris Bumstead undergoing his transplant procedure in Turkey with brother-in-law Iain Valliere. Images courtesy of Instagram @cbum.
Why Did Chris Bumstead Get a Hair Transplant?
If you’ve been a fan of Chris Bumstead for a while, you’ve probably noticed his hairline gradually receding over the past few years. I even commented recently about how he changed his hairstyle to conceal his widow’s peak.
Of course, male pattern baldness is a part of men’s aging process, and CBum’s hair loss could have been natural. However, prolonged steroid use can accelerate the balding process in men who are already genetically predisposed to hair loss.
Related: Chris Bumstead Opens Up About Steroid Use
While hair loss is normal and common, many men lose self-esteem along with losing their youthful locks. In addition, bodybuilders place themselves under meticulous scrutiny, which can lead to body image issues.
On top of that, CBum performs in front of the whole world, and it is apparent that he started growing self-conscious about his hairline. So Chris Bumstead’s hair transplant is simply a way for him to feel confident in his appearance.
These stage shots show how Bumstead’s hair has noticeably thinned and receded since 2017.
What Does CBum’s Hair Transplant Mean for His Career?
After a hair transplant, it’s recommended that you avoid intense exercise or sweating as it may hinder the growth of new hair follicles. Recently, Chris Bumstead announced that he will be taking a break from his training routine for 30 days.
After the Mr. Olympia contest, Bumstead had already reduced his training routine and rested for most of November. Then, he took all of December off to allow the transplant to take hold.
Some in the fitness world speculated that Bumstead would retire from bodybuilding in 2024, given his time off, and that he and his wife, Courtney King, had a baby.
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However, I pointed out that Chris’s hair transplant coincided with the lightest part of his training calendar, which indicated that he was planning to resume his rigorous training schedule in January. It made more sense that he would enhance his hairline for the stage rather than for life after bodybuilding.
Furthermore, Bumstead shared on Instagram that he had been undergoing regenerative medicine procedures with Dr. Adeel Khan. This suggested he was maintaining his body while continuing to compete at a high level.
As expected, CBum returned to the stage in 2024, sporting his new hairdo and winning his 6th consecutive Mr. Olympia Classic Physique title. During his acceptance speech, Bumstead emotionally announced his intention to retire from competing.
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Before & After Chris Bumstead’s Hair Transplant
Some people questioned why Chris Bumstead would get a hair transplant since his hair loss wasn’t very noticeable. However, upon pulling his hair back, it was evident that his temples had receded quite far back on his head.
The image on the left displays a black Sharpie line that indicates where his new hairline would be. Assuming that line is close to his original hairline, it is clear to see how much hair he had already lost.
On the right side of the image, we can see how Bumstead’s new hairline looks as his hair starts to grow back. It has only been a few days since the transplant, so it will be interesting to see how his hair looks once it gets longer.
Chris Bumstead before and after his transplant. Images courtesy of Instagram @cbum.
Reaction to CBum’s Hair Transplant
The public response to Chris Bumstead’s hair transplant has been overwhelmingly positive. People are appreciative of his desire to improve his hairline and appearance.
Bodybuilders like Bradley Martyn, Phil Heath, and Derek Lundsford have also shown their support. However, as is the case with any public figure, some people have negative opinions and see it as being vain or superficial to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Personally, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with Chris getting a transplant. Although, his hairline currently looks a bit unnatural. Nonetheless, I’m happy that Chris has been open about his experience and has chosen to share it rather than keeping it to himself or feeling ashamed.
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Chris Bumstead’s Best Hairstyles
Prior to the hair transplant, Chris Bumstead was well-known for sporting some edgy hairstyles and classic facial hair looks. From shoulder-length locks in his youth to a retro mullet and mustache on stage.
Click here to see more of Chris Bumstead’s haircuts through the years and get inspiration for your own hairdo.
More Chris Bumstead Stuff
If you’re a Chris Busmstead fan or just interested in knowing more about the bodybuilding champ, here is some additional reading material I know you’ll enjoy.
Chris Bumstead Height and Weight, Body Measurements, & More
Examples of CBum’s Leg Workouts Offseason vs Contest Prep
Is Chris Bumstead Natural Or On Steroids – Debunked
