Is it possible to re-transplant hair grafts? So from top of head, back to donor area

Question

Is it possible to move grafts from the top of the head to an (over)harvested donor area? Basically to even it out. Forget about the ‘why would you do that’.. just is it possible and will be successful to thicken donor area with previously transplanted grafts from the top? (Also assume it is 12-18 months of full recovery from the time the grafts were moved from donor to top). So basically move some of them back. Thanks!

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Theoretically, it may be possible, but it’s by no means as straightforward as it sounds. First, your donor area now has scar and scarred area does not “take up” grafts as well as non scarred areas. So it’s possible the grafts won’t take all that well. Second, it’s important to keep in mind that your newly transplanted grafts also have a bit of scarring around them so they are not going to grow as well as they might otherwise.

If there is a clear area of overharvesting it may be a strategy but this needs alot of thought. Scalp micropigmentation is also an option to camouflage overharvesting.

Be sure to get  few opinions on the best strategy moving forward. This can be challenging and occasionally gives worse outcomes than not doing anything further. All these need to be factored in to the big plan.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Yes it is possible to move transplanted hair back to the donor area. I suggest seeing a doctor to discuss your concerns. Best wishes.
Dr. T

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Yes therotically  it is  possible to move grafts from the top of the head or  from  previosly  transplanted arae to an (over)harvested donor area. Actually I have  done  it  one  of  patient's  donor site  but  I havent  sen the result  yet  .

Is it possible to re-transplant hair grafts? So from top of head, back to donor area

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Is it possible to re-transplant hair grafts? So from top of head, back to donor area

Answers (3)

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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.