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.

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.

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.

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.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Decreased sensation after hair transplant surgery can last for months, and return of sensation is gradual.  Nothing to be concerned about this soon after surgery.  If you are still concerned, discuss this with your surgeon.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

A few people develop numbness from small nerves that are cut or traumatized during the surgery. This abates slowlyg over weeks, sometimes monhts

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

Answers (7)

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