Was my hair transplant over harvested? (Photo)

Question

I got a hair transplant about 6 months ago. This was the second one after the first one failed. This time the transplanted hair seems to be growing however my donor section still looks terrible. I have two really bald patches in my donor area and when i rub the area i don’t feel any stubble or any signs of hair growth (it’s been 6 months) I think they scammed me and over harvested but i wanted to get a second opinion if possible.

Marco Barusco, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your concerns. Based on what you’ve described, it’s possible that the donor area was overharvested, which can happen if too many grafts are taken in too small an area. Overharvesting can leave visible patches and may result in little to no regrowth in those spots since FUE involves permanently removing hair follicles.

At six months post-surgery, the donor area should typically show some signs of recovery, though the appearance can vary depending on individual healing and the harvesting technique used. If the donor site still shows no improvement and feels smooth with no stubble, it’s worth consulting with a different hair restoration specialist to assess the extent of the damage.

A skilled surgeon can help determine the best path forward, whether it’s improving the appearance of the donor area with treatments like scalp micro-pigmentation (SMP) or discussing other restorative options. Getting a second opinion is a wise step to evaluate your options and ensure you get the best care moving forward.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's understandable to be concerned about your donor area following a hair transplant, especially if you're noticing bald patches and a lack of regrowth six months post-procedure. Here are some points to consider:

Healing Time: The donor area can take time to heal, and it’s not uncommon for the area to appear thinner initially. However, significant bald patches may indicate overharvesting.

Overharvesting: Overharvesting occurs when too many follicles are taken from the donor area, leading to visible thinning or bald spots. This can happen if the surgeon extracts too many grafts or if the donor area is naturally limited.

Consultation with a Specialist: For an accurate assessment, it’s crucial to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or hair transplant specialist. They can evaluate the donor area and determine if the harvesting was excessive.

Potential Solutions: If overharvesting is confirmed, options such as scalp micropigmentation, additional hair transplants with careful planning, or other cosmetic solutions may be considered to improve the appearance.

Documentation and Communication: Keep records of all communications and documentation related to your procedure. This information will be helpful if you decide to seek a second opinion or pursue any further action.

Patience and Monitoring: Continue to monitor the area for any changes or signs of regrowth over the next few months. Sometimes, hair can take longer to regrow, depending on individual healing processes.

It's important to address these concerns with a qualified professional who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Was my hair transplant over harvested? (Photo)

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