Am I suffering from shock loss or over harvesting? I’m 1 month post op. (Photos)

Question

I’ve healed very well in the 4 weeks since my HTP. I had my op done by a RealSelf “Top Doctor” whom has had rave reviews from most, if not all his previous work.  I do have a slight problem. Its the fact that my left temple area is very thin in places. I can feel skin to the touch as opposed to hair like the right hand side.  My HTP was relatively large with 3,300 grafts being taken from the donor area. Can you shed some light on what I’m experiencing?  Thanks

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Excess donor hair harvesting (3000+) using the FUE technique may cause donor hair depletion or shock loss in the donor area.  It is best to follow up with your doctor for a better assessment.  You may have to wait several months to see if the area recovers.  Note the 3000+ grafts will be missing (not grow back in the back) since it was relocated elsewhere.

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

It is still very early in the process so hopefully this appearance represents some shock loss and transaction which may grow back.However 3300 grafts is a large number for a single session and I am concerned about overharvesting.It will take another 3-4 months for the situation to declare itself. Daily application of Minoxidil may help expedite some growth. I would suggest following up with your surgeon.

Munir Somji, BSc, MBBS · Answer

Hi there. Congratulations on getting a hair transplant. I would recommend to go back to your surgeon for a quick examination in the first instance. From the images it is clear to see that you are suffering from shock loss rather than over harvesting. My advice would be stay on/start finasteride to help the hair regrow. In the meantime shake on hair fibres are a wonderful way to mask areas of shock loss.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Sometimes  there may be such a early phase alopecic, bald spots  in donor areas after FUE surgery,  but fortunatelly most are transient. İt may happen because of over harvesting or transient post traumatic shedding /shock loss. Any way it heals and hair regrow in 4-5 months of hair restoration surgery .

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting your photos. Unfortunately, as I review your photos, it is not possible to give you a definitive answer. It could be either over-harvesting or shock loss. I recommend following up with your hair restoration surgeon for further evaluation. Sorry, I could not give you a more definitive answer - Dr. Moore.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Sometines it is difficult to tell the difference between over-harvesting and shock loss of the donor area. After the donor area recovers in about 6 months you will know.

Am I suffering from shock loss or over harvesting? I’m 1 month post op. (Photos)

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