FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts (photos)

Question

Hi Doctors, I underwent FUE operation (3500 grafts) 1 month ago in Turkey. I notice the donor area right behind my right ear which looks especially patchy. While on the left and back side, hairs grew back and looks perfectly normal, few hair grew back on the right side even after 4 weeks! Was that area so over-harvested that no hair will ever grow back? I am really worried about it. Is it too early to say anything? Is there anything I can do to sort it out? Please advise. Thank you very much.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are right in that it could be over-harvesting or potentially shock loss, however, it is too early to say at the 1 month post-op period. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon.Best wishes,

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It may take 6 to 12 months to see results.  After one to two months you may notice increased hair loss or patchy areas.  If you are concerned, follow up with your doctor.

Ilker Apaydin, MD · Answer

It seems like a possible over harvesting or shock loss but to be sure you need to wait some more weeks. You may start using minoxidil on the donor site.You may consult your doctor who performed the extraction. Unfortunately in Turkey some clinics let assistants and technicians perform the extraction and I hope you have not undergone this surgery with one of those.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Thank you for posting your photo. This can be of 2 things. Shock loss, or over-harvesting of the donor region. Continue using Minoxidil 5% in that region to hopefully it gets denser within months. Hope this helps.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

At one month, there are many changes in growth of the donor area which I expect will balance out in time assuming everything we done correctly.  Be patient

FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts

Answer: FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts

Answer: 3500 grafts

Answer: 3500 grafts

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FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts

Answer: FUE Donor Area Looks patchy after 1 month post-op, 3500 grafts

Answer: 3500 grafts

Answer: 3500 grafts

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about FUE Hair Transplant

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