Can a hair transplant be done after Scalp Micropigmentation?

Question

So I was wondering if I were to get Micropigmentation to lower my hairline and the sides of my head, could I get a hair transplant afterwards if I ever wanted to? Will the micro tattoo cause a problem for the hair follicles be transplanted on it? Another question is if I were to get the Micropigmentation lasered off, would that cause problems for a hair transplant?

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

SMP, or scalp micropigmentation, is a painless procedure that uses highly specialized equipment and unique techniques to carefully and expertly inject all-natural, color-tailored pigments into the scalp creating a completely natural look of the patient’s hairline. A typical procedure involves an initial consultation and two pigmentation sessions to achieve the desired results. You can wash your head the fourth day after the treatment and, during that time, avoid any strenuous activity that will prompt undesired sweating. Once the procedure is complete, the results of a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment can last up to five years.
At the Foundation for Hair Restoration in NYC, I work with the world-renowned hair expert Dr.Jeffrey Epstein and his team to create beautiful, natural results for any hair type. 
A hair transplant can absolutely be done after SMP with no risk to the natural or transplanted hairs. 
 Consult with an experienced hair restoration surgeon for a complete range of options that are appropriate for your situation.

Bernardino Arocha, MD, FISHRS · Answer

Yes, you may have SMP in the same area as a transplant. We normally want our patients who are interested in both to have the transplant at least a week after SMP. I would not recommend having the laser removal of SMP after the transplant.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

I have patients who have hair transplant surgery first then SMP or SMP first then hair transplant surgery.  One does not affect the other.SMP can be removed with laser treatment without damage to the hair. The kicker is you must shave your head to have the laser treatment.As always, you need to see a doctor for an exam and diagnosis.  Be sure to select a doctor who has extensive experience with SMP as well as hair transplant surgery.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

This is a great question. Hair transplantation can certainly be done following a Scalp Micropigmentation. At my clinic, we regularly perform these types of procedures. As an example repair of unwanted SMP ink can be achieved by concealing it with hair transplant grafts. I do not recommend using pigment to advance the hairline and temples. The contrast between the inked surfaces and the areas of hair will look very obvious to others. We’ve had repair patients who have deeply regretted doing this. Use of scalp micropigmentation will not be detrimental for hair graft follicles. And to answer your other question, lasering off the pigmentation will not be an issue for a future hair transplant procedure. Longevity of transferred follicles primarily depend on their selection and handling of the grafts.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Yes, you could.  Be careful of micropigmentation because the "dots" often get bigger over time and look artificial.   Lasering them off is easier said then done.  It is unlikely that you would be happy with a lasered-off result since lasers will not remove all of the pigment.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

Scalp micro pigmentation is a very useful treatment for patients who wish to mimic hair follicles on their scalp. For patients looking to do a hair transplant after getting scalp micro pigmentation, as a procedure, it will positively not hinder the process of FUE or FUT methods.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that if hair transplanting is done via FUE, then in the end the scalp may appear to be patchy from the follicles that were removed.
Laser is surely an option to remove the pigmentation before undergoing a transplant. Under normal circumstances, it should not affect the hair as such, but it depends on external factors like the type of laser used, practitioner's experience, patient's medical history, etc. If a patient opts to laser the micro pigmentation, before seeking a hair transplant, they should unquestionably clear it with a surgeon.
If the laser removal is not deemed an option, then after healing is complete, the patient can cover their scars or the blotchiness with a touch-up session of scalp micro pigmentation.

Artur Kierach, MD · Answer

One does not effect the other technically. Scalp pigmentation can be performed without damaging the hair and a hair transplant can be placed directly over the existing scalp pigmentation. Removal of a tattoo is possible with laser therapy but can be painful, take a few sessions and potentially damage the surrounding hair. Best to make a decisive plan in the first place rather than make various plans if and when you may want to change. That is not ideal.

Bessam Farjo, MBChB · Answer

I don't see why not, and the reverse of course is true. This option comes into its own for people who desire to have a full look but do not have sufficient hair to transplantActually if you are having scalp micropigmentation over the top of your bald head, it is a good idea to have a FUE hair transplant just enough to have a buzzed look at the top. it will look more real with the SMP and the feel of hair if someone puts their hand to your head!

Cory Torgerson, MD, PhD, FRCSC - Account Suspended · Answer

I have several patients where we have done a mixture of SMP treatments with FUE hair transplants. One does not effect the other and if done correctly, can give a very great result.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You can do either first, but we generally recommend the hair transplant first. we have done FUE and strip surgeries after SMP with no problems. A strip surgery in scar former will have to be treated again with scalp micropigmentation. See web-site below

Can a hair transplant be done after Scalp Micropigmentation?

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