Will rubbing off grafts 16 days after my hair transplant damage my end result? (Photos)

Question

I had a hair transplant 16 days ago 2200 g. Recently I started taking a shower while rubbing my scalp instead of just pouring water on my head and shampoo and a lot off scabs keep falling out. My surgeon advised me to rub them off after 24 days however I gently rub my head and they come off like flakes with dead skin. I’ve attached a photo of one of them but I’ve shed quite a lot. I’ve had no bleeding anywhere whatsoever but am afraid that my rubbing of the scabs might interfere with my result.

William Woessner, MD · Answer

After 16 days post-op it is normal to rub off scabs and flakes with dead skin. Your photos appear normal. You should have no problems with your transplant. Be patient. It's 3-4 months before hair begins to sprout.

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is always best to follow the post-op instructions of your hair restoration surgeon. Each office has their own post-op protocol based on their experience. While I doubt you have adversely effected your results, I would recommend contacting your surgeons office with any concerns you might have.I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

Prima Tossaborvon, MD, MSc · Answer

Transplant hair will normally start falling out together the scabs after 2 weeks. This is a reason why your hair fall out a lot. Don't worry. I also encourage my patients to start gently rubbing the recipient area to make the scab falls out or it will be sitting there for extended period.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

I wrote a paper on what happens if you pull out grafts at various times starting day one through day 14. I found out that grafts that were removed 12 days with crusts on them, could be still lost. You should always follow your doctor's advice

Will rubbing off grafts 16 days after my hair transplant damage my end result? (Photos)

Answers (4)