Can FUT Be Performed on Patients with Hair Loss Due to Scarring?
Summary Answer
Yes, Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) can be performed on patients with hair loss due to scarring, provided there is sufficient healthy donor hair available and the scalp condition is suitable for surgery.
Expanded Information
Hair loss due to scarring, also known as cicatricial alopecia, can result from injuries, surgeries, or certain medical conditions. FUT can be a viable option for restoring hair in scarred areas under specific conditions. Here’s a detailed look at how FUT can address hair loss due to scarring:
Suitability for FUT
- Healthy Donor Hair: Successful FUT requires a sufficient amount of healthy donor hair from the back or sides of the scalp. The availability of this donor hair is crucial for achieving good results.
- Scalp Condition: The scar tissue must be evaluated to determine its suitability for hair transplantation. In some cases, the scar tissue may have reduced blood supply, which can affect graft survival.
- Type of Scarring: The nature and extent of the scarring impact the feasibility of the procedure. Linear scars from surgeries or injuries are often suitable for FUT, while widespread or extensive scarring may require special considerations.
Procedure Considerations
- Graft Survival: The success of the transplanted hair depends on the blood supply to the scarred area. Surgeons may use techniques to improve blood flow, such as pre-surgical treatments or post-surgical therapies like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma).
- Customized Approach: Each case of scarring alopecia is unique. A thorough consultation with a skilled surgeon is necessary to develop a tailored plan that addresses the specific type and location of scarring.
- Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations. While FUT can significantly improve hair density and appearance, the outcome may vary based on the scar tissue’s condition and the patient’s overall health.
Benefits of FUT for Scarring Alopecia
- Natural Results: FUT can provide natural-looking results by carefully transplanting follicular units to mimic natural hair growth patterns.
- Higher Graft Yield: FUT typically allows for the transplantation of a larger number of grafts in a single session, which can be beneficial for covering larger scarred areas.
Post-Surgery Care
- Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome.
- Additional Treatments: Supplemental treatments such as PRP therapy or topical medications may be recommended to support graft survival and enhance hair growth.
Contact Us
For personalized advice on whether FUT is suitable for your specific case of hair loss due to scarring, please chat with our support team at the FUE Surgeons Directory. We provide access to vetted doctors, comprehensive before and after photos, and numerous patient reviews to help you make an informed decision.
For more information on hair transplant procedures, visit our articles on FUE Surgery and FUT Surgery.