Have I lost of grafts 4 weeks post op after scratching off crust?

Question

Hello all :) I had a hair transplant 4 weeks ago (FUE). I experienced very little shedding since my transplant probably because i was shampooing very very gently on the scalp. This in turn resulted into a thick crusty layer on my scalp. Today I had this “brain fade” moment where i decided to scratch off this crust which in turn resulted into nearly 100-150 Hair that fell off. Are these dead hair? Or have I now lost 150 precious grafts!? Many thanks.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

After 4 weeks, your grafts are secured. It is normal to experience shedding. If you are concerned, please follow up with your surgeon for an exam.

Parsa Mohebi, MD, FISHRS · Answer

It is unlikely. After 4 weeks your recipient should look nice and clean without any scabbing. We know that transplanted hair is completely taken after day 5 and even if you try to pull hair shaft, the follicle stays and grows new hair.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

At 4 weeks you will not have lost grafts other than the crusts that you have left on your head. I performed a study on graft survival and after 2 weeks, you can't damage the stem cell below the skin which were attached to the graft

Have I lost of grafts 4 weeks post op after scratching off crust?

Answers (3)