Did my beard transplant hairs dry up and die? (Photo)

Question

I had a 1,500 fue neograft beard transplant. I washed my face twice daily with Johnson and Johnson head to toe baby wash for 7 days until I started to gently massage the scabs. During that time my skin became dry because I naturally have dry skin. I was told not to use any lotion on my face. From days 8-12 all of the transplanted hairs have shed with most of the being attached to to the crusts. I'm extremely concerned that my dry skin ruined my transplant.

Ken Anderson, MD, FISHRS · Answer

Thank you for posting this question.  As with any elective cosmetic surgery, questions regarding post-operative issues and concerns are always best directed to the physician who performed the surgery.  Your physician knows exactly what happened during the procedure, and is professionally and morally bound to be helpful and provide information and opinions as the final results take shape. That being said, it is unlikely that your hairs have died, and more likely that they are just shedding.  However, it's not possible to tell without an in-person physical examination.I am hopeful this information is helpful to you.

Christopher Kolstad, MD · Answer

It is normal for transplanted hairs to scab and fall off 7-14 days after a transplant.  The hair follicle is typically embeds under the surface and is safe after shedding the hair shaft.  If there is any concerns with recovery I would recommend speaking with your surgeon.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

The shedding you are experiencing is right on track with the NeoGraft process. Our patients typically experience shedding once the hairs have been in place on their head for two to three weeks. The timetable may be shorter for the beards so just as NeoGraft patients with head transplants wait 3-4 months after shedding for hair regrowth, you too are likely to experience the same process albeit in a shorter timetable. I suggest you consult a board certified facial plastic surgeon
because the board certified credential ensures you receive the highest
quality knowledge, treatment, care and skill available. A consultation provides
you the opportunity to relay your concerns and desired outcome to the surgeon
while the surgeon can assess your health profile and discuss his/her pertinent
advice.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

What you are describing sounds like the hairs falling out - not follicles.  This is a common (and expected) phenomenon.  I would not be concerned based on the story you provided.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is not clear that really happened.  There may be many reasons for hair transplant beard transplant failure. If the hair follicles have died, it probably was not due to "dry skin".  It is best you follow up with your doctor for a recheck.

Did my beard transplant hairs dry up and die? (Photo)

Answers (10)