After FUT strip surgery, does the "donor dent" eventually even out with the rest of the scalp or will this already remain?

Question

After FUT strip surgery, there is typically a "donor dent" in the back of the head where tissue has been removed. This looks pretty obvious after first for those that have a tight scalp. Does this eventually change (or even out) over time?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

There is no "dent" after a FUT or strip surgery. It doesn't matter if you have a tight scalp or a loose scalp. If you are having issues, it is best to discuss with your doctor.

Craig L. Ziering, DO · Answer

After FUT surgery, sometimes you can feel an area of scaring but overtime this should heal and the so called “donor dent” should not be prominent.

Kapil Dua, MBBS, MS · Answer

The so called " donor dent" depends upon the healing in the donor area. If the strip is narrow, and the healing is good, there is hardly any change in the level of the skin above and below the suture line. And if the strip is wide and there is hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation, then it becomes very prominent. So, it will be best to meet a FUT surgeon in person and get a physical examination done to get a better idea.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

This happens at times. If it does not go away and it bothers you, then you can get a scar revision, something we offer our patients at no charge

Brian Goertz, MD (retired) · Answer

If FUT (follicular unit transplant) strip excision and closure is performed correctly there will not be a donor dent. Donor dents after strip excision are due to poor surgical technique.

After FUT strip surgery, does the "donor dent" eventually even out with the rest of the scalp or will this already remain?

Answers (5)