John Cena reveals 20-hour hair transplant journey

John Cena opened up about his hair restoration journey, revealing that undergoing two hair transplant procedures has been life-changing.

Speaking to People at San Diego Comic-Con, the actor and former WWE champion said his doctor, Dr. Ken Anderson, "totally changed my life" after performing two surgeries lasting more than 20 hours combined.

Cena explained that his first procedure took 13½ hours, while the second lasted eight hours. On his doctor's recommendation, he shaved his head before the second operation to help preserve and transplant more hair follicles.

Cena explains why he underwent a second procedure

The Peacemaker star said he returned to his doctor 15 months after the first surgery to address a small remaining area of hair loss.

According to Cena, shaving his head allowed the surgeon to work more efficiently and achieve better results. He added that he has complete trust in the treatment process and is confident the procedure will continue to improve his hair growth.

WWE fans pushed him to seek treatment

Cena has previously spoken openly about receiving follicular unit extraction (FUE), a hair transplant technique that moves individual hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.

He said WWE fans first drew attention to his thinning hair with signs and chants during events, prompting him to research treatment options. Alongside the transplants, Cena now follows a hair-care routine that includes red-light therapy, minoxidil, vitamins, and specialised shampoo and conditioner.

Cena wishes he had acted sooner

The actor also admitted his biggest regret is waiting so long to undergo the procedure because of the stigma surrounding hair loss.

Cena said the treatment boosted his confidence and expanded his opportunities as an actor, adding that a different hairstyle can help him fit a wider range of roles. He stressed that there should be no shame in seeking hair restoration treatment.