Is this a botched FUE? (photo)

Question

In 2019 I underwent a FUE eyebrow transplant consisting of roughly 200 grafts per brow. While I'm satisfied with the aesthetic result, the FUE scar has not faded as much as I expected. This has lead me to consider whether my surgeon harvested the grafts too closely together, resulting in this letter box scar. If he harvested the grafts across a broader space I wouldn't have this noticeable scar. Is this a poorly done FUE?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your concerns with the FUE procedure. It's important to address these issues to understand what might have happened and explore potential solutions. Here are some points to consider:

Consultation with a Specialist: It's crucial to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or a hair restoration specialist who can assess the scar and provide an expert opinion. They can evaluate whether the grafts were harvested too closely together and discuss your concerns about the appearance of the scar.

FUE Technique: In Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), individual hair follicles are harvested from the donor area. Ideally, these should be spaced out to minimize visible scarring. If the grafts were harvested too closely, it might lead to a more noticeable scar, as you've described.

Scar Assessment: The appearance of scars can vary based on individual healing processes, skin type, and the technique used. A specialist can help determine whether the scarring is typical or if it could have been minimized with a different approach.

Treatment Options: If the scar is bothersome, there are several treatment options that might help improve its appearance, such as laser therapy, microneedling, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments. These methods can stimulate collagen production and help reduce the visibility of scars.

Second Opinion: Consider seeking a second opinion from another experienced hair restoration surgeon. They can provide an unbiased evaluation and suggest possible corrective procedures or treatments.

Realistic Expectations: While FUE is known for minimal scarring, some degree of scarring is inevitable. It's important to discuss realistic expectations with your specialist.

By consulting with qualified professionals, you can better understand the situation and explore options to address the scarring to achieve a more satisfactory outcome.

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Is this a botched FUE? (photo)

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