What are the Signs of a Hair Transplant Gone Wrong? Hair transplants are life changing for those struggling with hair loss, offering a chance to regain not just hair but also confidence. When performed by skilled and qualified medical professionals, hair transplants can yield natural-looking results that enhance appearance and self-esteem. However, as with any …
What are the Signs of a Hair Transplant Gone Wrong?
Hair transplants are life changing for those struggling with hair loss, offering a chance to regain not just hair but also confidence. When performed by skilled and qualified medical professionals, hair transplants can yield natural-looking results that enhance appearance and self-esteem. However, as with any medical intervention, there are risks involved, and occasionally, things may not go as planned.
Read to find out more on how you can spot a hair transplant that has gone wrong, and how to seek corrective measures.
1. UNNATURAL HAIRLINE
A telltale sign of a badly done hair transplant is an unnatural hairline. A skilled surgeon understands the importance of designing a hairline that complements facial features and looks age-appropriate. An overly straight or low hairline, irregularly shaped edges (where grafts are too noticeable) can indicate an inexperienced surgeon or rushed procedure. Achieving a natural-looking hairline requires meticulous planning and precise execution.
2. VISIBLE SCARRING
At Alaxis Medicare, we perform a hair transplant technique called Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Over our 18 years of practice with FUE, we have encountered patients with visible and sometimes permanent scarring due to poor surgical practices.
FUE hair transplant typically leaves tiny, almost invisible scars that heal well over time. Visible scars along the donor area or the recipient site can be signs of an untrained hand, improper wound closure or inadequate post-operative care. These scars may necessitate additional treatments such as scar revision, resulting in higher costs and longer downtime for patients.
3. Uneven Hair Growth
After a successful hair transplant, newly transplanted hair should grow evenly and densely. However, if you notice patches of sparse growth or areas where the hair appears thinner than expected, it could indicate poor graft survival or improper placement of grafts during the procedure. Factors like graft quality, surgical technique, and patient physiology significantly influence the success of hair growth. Addressing uneven growth may require further procedures to redistribute grafts for a more balanced appearance.
4. Complications
Scalp infections can occur following a hair transplant. Signs include increased redness, swelling, pain, and discharge (pus) from surgical sites. Infections can complicate healing and potentially affect the overall outcome of the transplant.
While uncommon in Singapore, infections can arise if patients do not follow proper aftercare or if procedures are performed by untrained individuals.
At Alaxis Medicare, we prescribe antibiotics to all hair transplant patients to prevent infection risks. Our clinic staff are trained to assist post-operative patients in changing dressing and provide guidance on proper wound care.
5. Unnatural Hair Texture
The transplanted hair should closely match the patient’s natural hair texture in terms of thickness and colour. If transplanted hair appears markedly different, it can be a sign of mismatched grafts or poor quality donor hair.
6. Loss of Native Hair
A poorly performed hair transplant can unintentionally damage existing native hair follicles surrounding the transplant area. This may lead to a condition called shock loss, where native hair sheds prematurely due to surgical trauma. Although usually temporary, shock loss can be distressing to patients.
7. Psychological Impact
Beyond physical signs, a botched hair transplant can have significant psychological effects on patients. Issues such as an unnatural appearance, visible scarring, or uneven growth can undermine self-confidence. Moreover, complications from a failed transplant entail additional costs and longer recovery periods.
Choosing to undergo a hair transplant should always involve selecting a reputable hair transplant surgeon with a proven track record of successful outcomes to ensure the best chance of achieving desired results.
Successful hair restoration can be life-changing.
Book Your Consultation with Us Today
Begin your hair restoration journey with Alaxis Medicare today. Contact us via WhatsApp at +65 81257655 to schedule a consultation.
