Points to Consider After SCAR Hair Transplantation: For a Successful Recovery
Points to Consider After SCAR Hair Transplantation: For a Successful Recovery
Points to Consider After SCAR Hair Transplantation – Thanks to advancements in hair transplantation technologies, permanent and natural solutions for those experiencing hair loss are now much more accessible. However, the success of a hair transplant operation is closely linked not only to the quality of the transplantation but also to the meticulous care applied after the surgery. Especially since “Scar Hair Transplantation” (SCAR Transplant), which is a specialized procedure for covering scars resulting from the donor area or a previous unsuccessful FUE/FUT procedure, the recovery period requires extra attention and care. As the Görkem Kazan Hair Transplant clinic, we detail the steps that must be taken during the recovery period to ensure our patients who undergo scar transplantation achieve the best results.
Scar transplantation is distinguished from standard hair transplantation because scar tissue has a different structure than normal hairy skin. Blood circulation in scar tissue is weaker, and elasticity is lower. This can affect the survival rate of the transplanted hair grafts. Therefore, post-operative care is vital for the grafts to successfully adapt to the scar tissue. A successful recovery will significantly reduce the visibility of the scar and provide a natural hair density.
The First 10 Days: Graft Protection and Delicate Care
The first 10 days after scar transplantation are the most critical time for the grafts to take hold in the scar area. The things you must pay attention to during this process are:
- Avoid Contact and Friction: It is strictly forbidden to touch, scratch, or rub the transplanted grafts. For the first few nights, you should sleep with your head elevated on a pillow and on your back. Even a slight bump can cause graft loss because the scar area is sensitive.
- First Wash and Scab Management: The first wash is usually performed at our clinic 24 to 48 hours after the operation. The special lotion and shampoo provided to you will soften the scabs in the scar area and allow them to fall off. The scabs should not be forced off; they are expected to separate gently on their own within approximately 7-10 days. Due to the sensitivity of the scar tissue, washing should be done with extra soft movements.
- Swelling and Redness: It is normal to see slight swelling and redness in the operation area, especially during the first 3 days. Swelling may sometimes spread around the eyes. This condition is temporary. Keeping your head upright and applying your doctor’s recommended ice packs (without direct contact with the transplant area) will help the swelling subside quickly.
The First 1 Month: Supporting Circulation and Accelerating Recovery
After the first 10 days, your focus should be on improving blood circulation to support the recovery process and increase the graft survival rate:
- No Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking constricts blood vessels, seriously reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the scar tissue. Since blood circulation is already weak in scar tissue during scar transplantation, smoking dramatically increases the risk of graft loss. Therefore, smoking and alcohol should be avoided entirely for the first month. Research from the National Library of Medicine (NCBI) supports the importance of blood circulation for hair follicle health.
- Sun and Excessive Heat: Protect the transplanted area from direct sunlight for the first 1 month. Avoid sunbathing, solariums, extremely hot baths, or saunas. Excessive heat and UV rays can damage the scar tissue and cause the color of the transplanted grafts to change.
- Physical Activity: Avoid heavy sports, sexual activity, and any movements that strain your head for the first 15 days. Sweating and exercise can increase the risk of infection and cause the grafts to become dislodged. With your doctor’s approval, you may start light-paced exercise after 1 month.
3rd Month and Beyond: The Emergence of New Hair and Maintenance Care
From the third month onwards, the natural post-hair-transplant cycle begins. Changes in the scar tissue become more apparent during this period:
- Shock Loss: The transplanted hairs in the scar area will also undergo “shock loss” between the 2nd and 4th weeks, just like in a normal transplant. This is completely normal and is a sign that the follicles have entered the resting phase. Do not panic.
- Initial Hair Growth: Starting from the 3rd month, the first new hairs will begin to grow in the scar area. These hairs may initially be thin and weak. They will eventually thicken and begin to permanently conceal the scar.
- Support for Scar Treatment: With your doctor’s recommendation, applying PRP, mesotherapy, or stem cell support therapies (stem cell support treatments) at this stage can greatly help improve the survival rate, the healing of the scar tissue, and the color of the scar.
- Massage and Elasticity: With your doctor’s approval, gently massaging the scar area after the 3rd month can increase blood circulation in the area, helping the scar tissue to soften and its elasticity to improve.
Scar transplantation is an art that requires a high level of expertise. The successful growth of hair follicles transplanted onto scar tissue is possible with patient and disciplined care. At Görkem Kazan Hair Transplant, we are by your side every step of the way to ensure your scars are camouflaged with natural hair, offering personalized support throughout the process. Working with our expert team who closely follow protocols on scar transplantation from reputable organizations like the International Society for Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), we strive for the most natural and successful results. A successful recovery is the first step toward achieving permanent and natural-looking hair.
