As we prepare for the 2026 ISHRS World Congress in Rio de Janeiro, I want to personally share the guiding principle shaping this year’s meeting: integrity. In the past year, I’ve had countless discussions with colleagues who expressed the same concern – our field is advancing faster than ever, yet it is also facing unprecedented challenges from unqualified providers and commercial pressures.
Working closely with our ISHRS President, Conradin von Albertini, I feel a deep responsibility to design a Congress that strengthens the foundation of our specialty by underscoring that hair restoration must remain in the hands of trained, qualified physicians. The science, artistry, and surgical decision-making involved in what we do cannot be delegated, and this year’s program is built to reaffirm that standard. I also want to emphasize that this Congress is not being shaped by my vision alone. I warmly welcome suggestions and ideas from all my esteemed colleagues, as our shared expertise will make this meeting truly exceptional.
With this vision in mind, Rio will feature some of the most comprehensive hands-on educational opportunities we’ve ever offered. We are expanding practical workshops, live demonstrations, small-group teaching, and skill-focused sessions designed to help surgeons elevate both technique and judgment. At the same time, we will highlight the latest advances in imaging, AI-assisted diagnostics, regenerative medicine, robotics, and donor-area science – always framed within the core message that technology enhances physician expertise; it never replaces it.
My hope is that every attendee walks away not only inspired but empowered to uphold the highest ethical and clinical standards in their own practice. It is an honor to serve as Program Chair, and I look forward to welcoming you to Brazil for a Congress built on science, collaboration, and the integrity that defines the ISHRS.
Call for abstracts is coming soon!
All the best,
Maxim Chumak, MD, FISHRS, Program Chair