Can I apply a steroid on my scalp to treat redness and itchiness post op?

Question

I'm 42 days post op and for the last couple of weeks my new hairs (or areas of incisions) have been itching a lot. They also are still red-like holes from the time the incisions were made. My doctor does not think there is an infection (although he recommended antibiotics anyways). My dermatologist suggested triamcinolone lotion, which is a steroid, for the itchiness and redness. But she said to check with the HT surgeon if this would affect the grafts. Could the application of this affect the grafts?

Sara Salas, MD · Answer

Yes you can use the topical steroid for a week and see if the inflamation goes down. Take the antibiotic as well. Then reevaluate your situation.

Jeffrey Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

You really need to speak with your surgeon to determine the best post op care in a case such as yours.  Steroids can reduce hair regrowth when applied topically but sometimes there is a role for that therapy.  Sometimes an antibiotic, sometimes believe it or not Benadryl orally can reduce redness post transplant.

Prima Tossaborvon, MD, MSc · Answer

You can use the topical steroid as your dermatologist suggests. It doesn't damage your transplanted hair.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

The use of topical steroids after a hair transplant where redness is retained, works; however, be careful not to use it beyond a week

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Can I apply a steroid on my scalp to treat redness and itchiness post op?

Answers (4)

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