Day 13 post FUE: what you think of the transplant and how my scalp looks? (photos)

Question

a lot of hair has fallen out over the past 4 washes. I've applied lotion, baby oil and tried gentle massage over the past two days to get the scabs out. Q1: what you think of the transplant and how my scalp looks Q2: should i just be more patient and continue to use lotion and baby oil to get the scabs out or is there something else i need to do? Q3: I am assuming the redness is just part of the course of healing. How long should I expect it to last for?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It can take 6 to 12 months after surgery to see results.  If you are concerned it is best to contact your doctor.Your photo looks like a typical surgery but with so scabbing. Please follow your doctor's recommendation on proper washing.

Christopher Varona, DO · Answer

Looks like your healing normally with a few residual scabs in some spots. I would continue to use the baby oil on the scalp for 5 minutes in the shower on the scabbed areas and then gently shampoo. Don't try to pick the scabs off. The redness should subside soon. I've seen some patients have some redness in the grafted area 3 weeks after surgery. Make sure to wear a hat if you are going to be out in the sun for more than 5-10 minutes to prevent tanning or burning the scalp. This could extend the period of redness considerably.

Craig L. Ziering, DO · Answer

For the most part, the redness and appearance of your scalp is the result of normal healing. However, typically by day 13 I would prefer your scabs to be gone. I suggest you apply conditioner and leave it on the scalp for 10-20 minutes and then rinse off to eliminate the scabs. This can also be done by applying bio oil and leaving it on to soak into the scalp. If these scabs persist for another week or so, you should contact your doctor.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Scabs are usually gone after two weeks.  It sounds like you are doing the right things.  You may also try placing a wet washcloth on your head for 15 minutes or so before getting in the shower to wash your hair.  If the scabs persist, give your surgeon a call.

John Kahen, MD · Answer

To wash out the scabs, gently wash your hair with mild shampoo and do not pick at the scabs. If the scabs aren't coming off saturate the scalp with the mild shampoo for a few minutes then wash off. The redness should subside after a few days post-op. If redness or swelling increases, see your physician to evaluate.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

I don't like the persistent crusts. In our patients, as you can see below in the web reference, all crusts are off when they leave the office and stay off because of a meticulous washing protocol we use

Day 13 post FUE: what you think of the transplant and how my scalp looks? (photos)

Answers (6)