Failed Hair Transplant - Why would the fifth transplant fail?

Question

I've had five (5) hair transplants, all smaller procedures of about 1000 grafts each and all FUT. The first four all worked well but this last one has failed entirely and I don't understand why? Same surgeon, same technique each time, and I followed the aftercare regimen carefully as always. I am more than 9 months post-op and have ZERO results, no growth at all whatsoever. This has always worked before and so am extremely confused and down and searching for answers. Please help!

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

I understand how frustrating and disappointing it must be to experience a failed hair transplant, especially after having success with previous procedures. Here are some potential reasons and considerations that might explain why the fifth transplant did not yield the expected results:

Donor Area Depletion:
After multiple transplants, the donor area may become depleted or compromised, affecting the quality and viability of the grafts.

Scalp Health:
Changes in scalp health, such as increased scarring or reduced blood supply, can impact graft survival and growth.

Graft Handling and Survival:
Even with the same surgeon and technique, factors such as graft handling, exposure time, and placement can affect graft survival.

Underlying Medical Conditions:
Changes in health status or underlying conditions (e.g., hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies) could impact hair growth.

Surgical Technique Limitations:
While FUT is generally effective, individual variations or limitations in the technique might affect outcomes over multiple sessions.

Natural Hair Cycle Variations:
Occasionally, hair may take longer to grow, and while 9 months is significant, it might still be within a window of delayed growth for some patients.

Consultation with Your Surgeon:
It’s important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon, as they can evaluate your specific case and possibly identify any issues that may have occurred.

Consider Seeking a Second Opinion:
A second opinion from another hair restoration specialist could provide additional insights or alternative treatment options.

I hope this information helps in understanding potential reasons for the outcome of your recent procedure. It’s important to have a thorough evaluation to determine the best way forward.

Best regards,

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Well, there are many reasons for something like this to occur, I can’t say what your cause might be without seeing your scalp up close and knowing more about your story. Most people need a biopsy in these situations so that’s something you may want to open discussion with your doctors. i don’t know if you yourself need a biopsy as I don’t know your story. But issues like lichen planopilaris and folliculitis decalvans need to be ruled out completely. A good medication history is needed too.  All in all, be sure to see an expert for a thorough scalp examination and especially to rule out any sort of immune mediated scarring alopecia such as lichen planopilaris.

Failed Hair Transplant - Why would the fifth transplant fail?

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Failed Hair Transplant - Why would the fifth transplant fail?

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Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.