I had a FUE hair transplant a few days ago and some follicles are sticking out. Is this normal?

Dear Fella,Thank you for writing in with your question. The grafts should be raised slightly above the skin by about 1mm or so. If some are sticking out more than that, I would consider seeing the physician who performed your procedure to inquire. If they are more than 3mm or so that could be cause for concern. I hope this information is helpful to you.

It depends on how your surgeon does the surgery.  Some doctors leave a portion of the grafts out, and some do not.  Sometimes it can be normal.  Sometime it may not be normal.  Thus, it is important to follow up with your doctor for a recheck.

This does sound normal.If, after reading some reassurances here online you are still concerned, please consult your doctor.John Frank MDNew YorkOhio

Properly transplanted hair follicle grafts should stick out about 1 mm.  Grafts that stick out 2-3 mm or more may be poking out of their holes   Grafts that are very much exposed above the level of the skin are said to be "popping". Graft popping occurs for many reasons including tight packing of the grafts with not enough room, bleeding issues during or after the procedure, and excessive moisture with post op washing that causes the grafts to absorb water. Without seeing the scalp and photos, it's not possible to tell what's happening. Grafts often settle in 24 hours and look less exposed above the level of the skin. If you have concerns, it's always great to take a picture and show them to your surgeon or better yet .... meet again in person. 

The hair shaft that is attached to the follicles detaches from the follicle and comes out and eventually falls off.  If the follicle that looks like a bulb is coming out then you are losing that graft.  All the follicles need to be under the skin to survive.  Youcanvisit your doctor to see if its the hair shaft that is sticking out or the follicle. 

Grafts should be flat against the skin. If they are coming out, see your doctor immediately. Grafts may be coming out, but most likely what you are seeing is not the grafts, but your doctor should be the one to judge.