How can I fix the bald patches? Will a hair transplant work? (Photo)

Question

I'm unsure if the two are connected or if it's just coincidence, however in September 2020 I had a forehead reduction and in October 2020 I got an infection in my scalp resulting in 2 shiny bald patches on the top of my head. I've been told the follicles are dead. Is there anything I can do to revive the follicles? Will a hair transplant work and what would the cost be roughly?

William Lao, MD · Answer

When the hair follicles are just atrophic or diminutive you can try treatments like topical minoxidil or PRP injection etc to revive them, but when they are completely dead then likely only hair transplant will help. the cost will depend on the area needed and how many follicles are needed. Please see a local hair transplant doctor to get a formal consultation.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You’ll want to see a dermatologist who can determine if this was a one time thing or whether this infection in fact incited lichen planopilaris or folliculitis decalvans. No, this area can not be revived,  You have a scarring alopecia which may likely be secondary to infection but you need a proper evaluation. It would be a big mistake to casually assume it’s related to surgery. Sure, it most likely is - but one must not forget that surgery like this can rarely trigger primary scarring alopecia. If it’s a primary scarring alopecia (rather than secondary) a hair transplant may not work well and could even worsen if it’s active. See an expert dermatologist for proper evaluation. First step is an expert dermatologist not a surgeon. That must be emphasized. Don’t rush this. If it’s an old scar from remote infection, the  excision by a highly highly skilled plastic surgeon may be the route to go rather than hair transplants. A nice excision by a skilled surgeon with appropriate flap and trichophytic closure can usually yield way better results than surgery. Especially in a thick scar like it appears this might be. If it’s an active scarring alopecia, you’ll need proper treatment. There is redness and pili torti and possibly tufting in the photos. Get expert advice so someone can see this up close who is an expert in primary cicatricial immune based alopecias. Don’t rush this. I’m not so convinced actually this is as simple as it might first appear - especially if there are two areas.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

That looks  like  a  secondary  cicatricial  alopecia  and  hair  transplant  definetelly  works  for  that  problem  .  we  need  only  200-300  grafts  to  fill  up  bald  patch  at  photo.

Samer Muala, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

It would help to evaluate you- but in general you have enough density to probably get a favorable result.  We do our hair transplants in Istanbul, Turkey and the cost is $5500 for the transplant including accomodation.  With airfare, it's about $7500.  Good luck.

How can I fix the bald patches? Will a hair transplant work? (Photo)

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