Bump in donor area after FUT hair transplant. 6 weeks post-op. (Photos)

Question

I had FUT about six weeks ago, and my external stitches were cut but the surgeon also used dissolvable stitches. I was told all of the stitches would come out within 3-4 weeks. I think they're all out. The issue is, when I touch my scar, I feel like there is a bump across it, like the scar is protruding, through the entire scar. Is this normal? I travelled to see my doctor so I've talked to him via email, he feels it could be folliculitis/pimples and I should add antibiotics.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

What you are seeing or feeling can be anything from a normal scar to an early infection.  If your doctor feels it may be an infection then you should follow your doctor's recommendations since your doctor knows you the best.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Actually those  bumps may be observed until maturation of scar.. those may fade away nad has a normal skin texture  in a long time up to  6-12 months

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

6 weeks is still very early in the scar maturation process.  The scar will continue to mature and flatten with time.  What you are describing appears normal but it is best to have it examined by your surgeon.

Cory S. Goldberg, BSc, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

Hello JV,Based on your description your surgeon used the strip method for harvesting donor hairs from the back of your scalp.  When the surgeon closed your donor site with sutures, he/she most likely used two layers of stitches.  In the deep layer (sub-dermal), which is not visible to the outside, dissolving sutures were used, and non-dissolving sutures were used to close the outside skin layer.  The visible, non-dissolving sutures on the skin were removed, but the dissolving sutures under the skin are still there.  Depending on the type of suture used, these can take 3 to 6 months to dissolve completely.  Normally they don't cause any problems at all, but in some patients, they can cause a small amount of inflammation and cause a bump.  Some patients are more sensitive to this type of suture and develop a bumpy scar.  This usually goes away once all the sutures have dissolved.  If it doesn't go away or becomes infected (the signs are swelling, redness, pain) then it may need to drained by your doctor.  The photo doesn't look like there's an infection.Other causes of bumps in the scar include an ingrown hairs, or a retained non-dissolving suture that didn't come out completely when the surgeon's nurse took out your stitches.  These usually get worse over time, so go see your GP or your surgeon if it seems to get worse.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

It looks ok to me, a bit red from the bump. If you are concerned go back and visit your doctor for an examination

Bump in donor area after FUT hair transplant. 6 weeks post-op. (Photos)

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