FUE post-op tenderness in the donor area, how long will this last?

Question

I had 1,900 donor follicles extracted via FUE one week ago today. At the post-op 2 days later, my doctor said everything was healing nicely. The donor area definitely looks far better than I expected at this point. However, I'm experiencing a not insignificant amount of pain and tenderness (and itching) at the donor sites. Wearing a cap or resting my head on a pillow is uncomfortable. I apply ice packs throughout the day to deal with the discomfort. How long should I expect this to continue?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is best to ask your surgeon about post operative care and issues as each doctor has their unique regimen.  Pain is very subjective and if you are experiencing pain that you feel is not normal contact your doctor.

John Kahen, MD · Answer

This is all normal. It means that the area is healing. I would expect this for anywhere about 6 days to 2 weeks.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Complaining of fue tenderness in donor area is unusual. Give it a few weeks or go see your surgeon and ask about it. If your surgeon is local, I am sure your surgeon will be pleased to see you and examine the area of your concern.

FUE post-op tenderness in the donor area, how long will this last?

Answers (3)