Would love a second opinion. Does it look like shock loss or over harvest? (photos)

Question

I received a hair transplant about 5 months ago. I feel like the transplanted area is growing, however my donor area looks really bad. Im confident they over harvested but they keep telling me it’s just shock loss. I don’t think they’re being honest with me and was hoping to get another opinion and advice on what to do next.

Marco Barusco, MD · Answer

At five months post-transplant, it’s understandable to be concerned about the appearance of your donor area. Shock loss can occur after surgery, and in most cases, the hair in the donor area will recover over time. However, if the area appears significantly thin or patchy beyond the expected healing phase, over-harvesting could be a possibility—especially if too many grafts were extracted too closely together.

Determining whether the issue is temporary shock loss or actual over-harvesting requires a careful evaluation. If the donor area has been depleted too aggressively, options like medical treatments, scalp micropigmentation, or in some cases, corrective procedures may be considered to improve the appearance.

I’d recommend giving it a bit more time, but if you’re still concerned, seeking an independent evaluation could help clarify what’s happening and what steps you can take moving forward.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Experiencing shock loss in the donor area following a hair transplant can be concerning, but it is not uncommon. Shock loss refers to the temporary loss of hair in the donor area due to trauma from the procedure. Here are some steps and considerations to address this issue:

Time and Patience: Shock loss can be temporary, and hair often regrows within a few months. It’s recommended to wait about 12 months post-procedure to fully assess the final results.

Consultation with a Specialist: Seek a second opinion from a board-certified dermatologist or hair transplant specialist. They can evaluate your specific situation and provide a more personalized assessment.

Follow-Up Care: Ensure you are following all post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This includes proper hair washing techniques, avoiding harsh chemicals, and potentially using recommended topical treatments.

Nutritional Support: Maintain a healthy diet and consider supplements like biotin that may support hair health, but consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Medical Treatments: In some cases, treatments such as minoxidil or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be recommended to encourage regrowth in the donor area, subject to a specialist’s advice.

Addressing Over-Harvesting Concerns: If you suspect over-harvesting, a specialist can provide insight into whether this has occurred and discuss potential solutions, such as corrective procedures if necessary.

Emotional Support: Hair loss can be emotionally challenging. Consider seeking support groups or counseling if this is affecting your well-being.

Each case is unique, so obtaining a thorough evaluation from a qualified professional is crucial to understanding your options and the best course of action.

Would love a second opinion. Does it look like shock loss or over harvest? (photos)

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