Is it normal to still have some swelling a month after an FUT hair transplant procedure (donor area)?

Question

About a month ago I had underwent an FUT hair transplant procedure to lower my hairline but I still feel I have some swelling in the back of my scalp, the donor area. I also have some itching. I did not experience any shock loss but the fact that I am still swollen is surprising and not expected. Is this normal? When will it fully heal? The swelling is nothing crazy but I can feel the back of my scalp is not the same way it use to be prior to procedure. Should I be concerned?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is best to contact your surgeon for post surgery issues and care since all doctors have slightly different instructions.

Rohit Seth, MD, MRCS(Ed), PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question and sorry about you having these concerns.This all sounds normal. The swelling and numbness in the scalp can last longer and it is just the swelling is taking a bit longer to settle with you. Anytime you have an operation or suffer trauma to the skin, it loses its moisturising ability for a period of time and so you will need to moisturise to limit the itchy feeling. Things to suggest:1) you can start massaging the scar and that will help to soften it and settle the swelling 2) use regular vitamin E hair growth oil on the area - it wil help to soften the scar and nourish the hair. 3) if you can get a saline spray - spray that on your scalp periodically - this will again help with reducing itchiness4) anti histamine tablets can help to reduce this itchy effect also.I hope this is helpful for you BWRohit SethPlastic, reconstructive, aesthetic and hair transplant surgery

William Woessner, MD · Answer

You should check with your surgeon if possible. Otherwise check with a doctor experienced in head & neck surgery. It is not normal to have swelling one month after FUT surgery.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

The donor site typically heals within a weak when using the SmartGraft device for FUE.  The 1mm extractions sites heal very quickly without visibility.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

That would depend on what you mean by swelling.  Surgical scars tend become raised and bumpy for the first 4-6 weeks after surgery, then smooth out as they mature over the next 6-12 months.  This is normal and expected.  If there was bleeding under the skin you could have a pocket of fluid under your incision.  Scar tissue would be firm and solid' a fluid pocket would be softer.  If you're concerned, a visit to your surgeon for evaluation would be warranted.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

At a months, all of the swelling should be gone. In your case, you might want to return and have your surgeon examine you

Brian Goertz, MD (retired) · Answer

That is not normal nor expected. With meticulous removal of donor area there will be little trauma and minimal disruption to the donor area. If performed incorrectly and blood vessel transection you may get the symptoms you describe. Follow up with your surgeon and let them examine you in person.

Is it normal to still have some swelling a month after an FUT hair transplant procedure (donor area)?

Answers (7)

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