Lumpy Scalp After Hair Transplant

Question

I had a hair transplant 7 years ago. I now have a very lumpy (almost deformed) scalp which seems to be getting worse. It seems to be on top of my head and is now almost in my forehead. Is this a side effect of the surgery?

Kevin Ende, MD · Answer

A lumpy scalp is an unusual consequence of having a hair transplant procedure.  You should be evaluated in person by a dermatologist or hair transplant surgeon to determine what is going on.  You could also post some pictures since the word lumpy can have many different meanings.  Cyst formation is certainly a possibility, but piggybacking grafts should have nothing to do with this since your transplant was seven years ago.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Lumpy scalp can mean you have a scar.  It is always a good idea to check with your doctor for an exam and explore options.  Lumpy scalp is NOT a side effect of surgery.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

You should schedule an appointment with your hair surgeon immediately to discuss the issue. There may be other underlying factors that caused this. A ridgeline of scar tissue visible at the hairline or anywhere on the scalp should not occur. True ridging results from the use of bulky grafts and used to be common in older times when multiple follicles are grafted together giving rise to the so called “doll’s hair.” With the advent of single follicle transplants (FUT and FUE), true ridging is a rare event

Jeffrey Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

This is not a typical outcome, and is a form of ridging.  Likely the procedure was not a microscopic follicular unit grafting, so the skin resulted in scarring.  It can be treated by a surgeon experienced in advanced reparative techniques.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

This is not normal and you should see your surgeon and get a second opinion. Lumpiness can be caused by several factors and the surgeon needs to see your scalp.

Lumpy Scalp After Hair Transplant

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Answer: Lumpy Scalp after Hair Transplant - Not Typical

Answer: Lumpy Scalp after Hair Transplant - Not Typical

Answer: Lumpy scalp after hair transplants.

Answer: Lumpy scalp after hair transplants.

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Lumpy Scalp After Hair Transplant

Answers (10)

Answer: Lumpy Scalp after Hair Transplant - Not Typical

Answer: Lumpy Scalp after Hair Transplant - Not Typical

Answer: Lumpy scalp after hair transplants.

Answer: Lumpy scalp after hair transplants.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

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