How long should I expect my scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure? I'm 1 week post.

Question

I am one week post-op and I am still completely numb above my suture line around the crown of my head. I can't feel anything. I was told the doctor placed a nerve block. I am starting to get (very) concerned that there might have been a complication. Is it normal to still be totally numb? Please help.

Sara Salas, MD · Answer

Depending on the procedure, it could take a couple of weeks and up to a few months or more. It also depends on the amount of times the procedure has been done.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Your scalp may be numb for a few weeks to months.  In rare cases, it may be permanent if a major nerve was cut during surgery.

Bharat Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

after the strip harvest procedure, you may notice mild numbness above the incision for several weeks. the deeper, occipital nerves should be OK, and will restore sensation to the area. 
long-lasting numbness may be a sign of injury to the occipital nerve.

Steven Gabel, MD, FACS · Answer

Numbness after hair restoration surgery is not uncommon and it usually spontaneously resolves after a few weeks.  Also, depending upon the type of procedure performed, the risk of any injury to the nerve is minimal. If the strip procedure was performed, then the risk is higher that there was a nerve injury - although very uncommon.  If the FUE technique was utilized, then the risk is even lower.  I suggest discussing with your hair restoration surgeon.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Numbness after HT is depend on traumatisation of superficial nerve plexus of scalp skin. Normal sensation will be back in 6-12 months with normal healing process of the skin.

How long should I expect my scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure? I'm 1 week post.

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Answer: Numbness after hair transplant

Answer: Numbness after hair transplant

Answer: Scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure

Answer: Scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure

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How long should I expect my scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure? I'm 1 week post.

Answers (7)

Answer: Numbness after hair transplant

Answer: Numbness after hair transplant

Answer: Scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure

Answer: Scalp to be numb after hair transplant procedure

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.