Is redness five months after FUE normal? (Photo)

Question

I had about 2,200 FUE grafts implanted almost five months ago in the front to correct a slightly receding hairline. My scalp is still red where the grafts were implanted. The surgical coordinator says this is normal since I have fair skin but I'd like a second opinion. There are no bumps, cysts etc. Also, how is my progress for 5 months? Thanks!

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

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

Thomas Nakatsui, MD, FRCPC, FAAD · Answer

Although fair skinned patients do seem to stay red for longer than darker skinned patients, 5 months is a little longer than expected. From the photos, I would suspect you have some ingrown hairs causing a mild foreign body reaction, which is called pseudofolliculitis. This should improve as the hairs surface. You may want to have this evaluated by your surgeon as it is difficult to accurately assess this from the photos.

Michael Vories, MD · Answer

It appears from the photos that the redness is coming from small dots in the hairline. If so, this is likely due to ingrown hairs that will pop and drain in their own, and the redness is time limited.

David Perez-Meza, MD, FISHRS · Answer

Great question. No, it not normal redness after 5 months PO and there are several causes. You need to ask your hair surgeon not the surgical coordinator about the issue. Call the office to make an appointment for a detailed evaluation of your hair surgeon. Good luck.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Five months is too early to assess growth and final results.It is unusual for redness to persist this long and if it's not fading it may be worth a visit to your surgeon to have the area evaluated.

Is redness five months after FUE normal? (Photo)

Answers (5)