Scar Repair FAQs
Hair transplantation is a hair loss treatment that is permanent. The Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT) is one such method. FUT involves removing a hair-rich strip of scalp from one part of the head, and transplanting it to another part that is suffering hair loss. This method produces immediate, dramatic results, but may cause scarring to develop on the donor site.
If you have scarring from a recent hair transplant surgery, you may benefit from a highly-skilled surgeon performing scalp scar repair. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about scar repair after hair transplantation.
What Are My Options for Scar Repair?
There are two highly advanced methods used to repair scarring on the scalp – the geometric broken line repair technique, and the hair transplant technique. The geometric broken line repair technique involves excising the scar and suturing it with a wound convergence technique, making the scar look irregular and therefore less noticeable. However, this method may not work for those with older scars, and there is a risk of the scar becoming wider.
The hair transplant technique tends to produce better results. This method involves transplanting hairs to the donor site to cover up the scar. The method uses what is known as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
How Does FUE for Scar Repair Work?
The FUE technique involves harvesting each hair from a donor site, to be transplanted into the part of the scalp where scarring is evident. This helps create a more natural look and helps prevent further scarring. The hairs may be harvested from a different area of the scalp or the beard area. A highly skilled hair surgeon will use the micro-pinching technique, which involves the removal of a small core of the scar to make way for healthy hair graft tissue.
What Other Methods Help Create a More Natural Look?
While hair transplantation helps camouflage the scar and create a natural look, the doctor may also consider using Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). SMP involves injecting pigment into the scalp to create dye lines, or dots, which imitate the appearance of tiny hairs. This results in the look of having fuller hair, ultimately further concealing the scar.
How Do I Make Sure the Transplanted Hairs Fully Grow?
You may be wondering if transplanted hairs can still grow to full length even if the skin is scarred. To boost hair growth, a highly experienced hair restoration surgeon can use regenerative techniques such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy and Acell. PRP involves the use of platelet-rich plasma harvested from the patient’s own blood, while Acell is a proprietary blend of proteins that enhances the effects of PRP. Together, these techniques can improve graft survival in areas with a lack of blood supply, like scar tissue. PRP boosts graft survival, while ACell promotes scar remodeling, improving its appearance.
If you are interested in scalp scar repair procedures, make sure to talk to a highly-skilled hair transplant surgeon. Your choice of hair doctor heavily influences the outcome of treatment.
Scalp Scar Repair in Kansas City and Des Moines
Dr. Scott Darling is a triple board-certified hair transplant doctor treating hair loss and scalp disorders since 1999. Dr. Darling is highly skilled in the advanced techniques used in scalp scar repair and combines it with other therapies to supercharge the effects of each treatment.
Dr. Darling will determine the best options to give you the most dramatic results and restore your confidence. Dr. Darling is not only experienced in treating hair transplant scars, but also facelift scars as well.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Darling, call our clinic at (816) 792-3400 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to being your partner in hair restoration and scalp repair.
