Proper post-operative care and hygiene are crucial to prevent infections, and any signs of persistent or worsening infection should be promptly addressed by your surgeon.
Poor Result after 1 Year of Surgery
Hair transplantation is a gradual process, and it can take several months to a year to see the final results.
However, if you are dissatisfied with the outcome even after a year, such as sparse hair growth or uneven distribution, it may suggest a subpar procedure. Consultation with a qualified hair transplant specialist is advised in such cases.
Unnatural Look
One of the foremost goals of a hair transplant is to achieve a natural-looking hairline and overall appearance. If your hairline appears unnaturally straight, too low, or with an unnatural density, it may be a sign of an improper hair transplant.
Skilled surgeons take into account factors like hair direction, angle, and distribution to create a result that seamlessly blends with your existing hair.
Can A Hair Transplant Be Corrected?
A hair transplant can be corrected through various methods, allowing patients with unsatisfactory results to achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Skilled surgeons often encounter patients who seek corrective hair transplant surgery after experiencing issues with their previous procedure. Let’s delve into each of the points provided and elaborate on them:
Unnatural Hairline Repair
An unnatural hairline is a common problem that may arise from a poorly executed hair transplant. To address this issue, several techniques can be employed.
One approach involves adding a large number of 1-3 hair grafts strategically placed between, behind, and in front of the existing large 15-25 hair grafts. It helps create a more natural transition and softens the appearance of the hairline.
Another option is the surgical removal of plugs, which involves removing larger grafts and replacing them with smaller, more natural-looking ones.
Poor Follicle Quality Repair
Poor follicle quality can pose a challenge when correcting a hair transplant. It can manifest as limited or depleted occipital donor hair, which may be a result of previous procedures.
Additionally, the existing hairline may not only appear “pluggy” but also be in an inappropriate location. In such cases, simply adding more hair will not solve the problem.
Poor Hair Density Repair
Poor hair density after a hair transplant can result in an unnatural and uneven hairline, often referred to as “bushes” between trees. To rectify this issue, surgeons have several options.
One prime approach strategically adds more grafts to increase density and create a softer hairline. By carefully placing these grafts, the overall density can be improved, making the unnatural hairline less noticeable.
Scarring Repair
One popular technique is scalp micropigmentation, which involves using specialized pigments to match the patient’s natural hair color and create the illusion of hair follicles in areas affected by scarring.
This method helps camouflage the scars, resulting in a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing outcome. Laser therapy can also fix the scar issue by removing the damaged skin.
Immediately After Corrective Hair Transplant Surgery
Following the corrective hair transplant surgery, a specialized procedure is carried out to ensure proper healing and protection. An Adaptive dressing, treated with Polysporin ointment, is carefully placed on the patient’s head to cover the transplanted hair.
It is followed by applying Kerlix bandages and a 3-inch Ace bandage, securely wrapping the head. For the next 48 hours, a simple dressing consisting of gauze soaked in saline solution is used, along with a soft elastic bandage.
After this initial period, the patient can gently shampoo their hair daily using a mild product like Johnson & Johnson’s baby shampoo, facilitating a healthy recovery process.
Recovery After Reversed Hair Transplant
After undergoing hair transplant corrective surgery, the patient is given post-operative guidance by the nursing staff. It is recommended that someone accompanies the patient, as driving is not permitted within the first 24 hours due to the lingering effects of sedation.
The patient can resume professional activities the day after the surgery. To manage discomfort in the donor area, an analgesic like Tylenol with codeine is prescribed, typically taken 6 to 8 hours after the operation.
During the initial 24 to 48 hours, it is advised that the patient sleeps with their head elevated to minimize swelling. Approximately 25% of patients experience forehead edema, which can spread to the eyelids and cheeks by the second day.
Cold compresses can help reduce this swelling. After 24 hours, the patient can remove the Ace bandage and shower while wearing the remaining dressings, using lukewarm water.
The scalp should be washed with an antiseptic shampoo or soap, being careful to only clear dry blood without disturbing the crusts. Sutures are typically removed at 7 to 10 days, while the crusts formed in the grafted areas will naturally fall off within 8 to 15 days.
Baby oil can be used to soften the crusts. After one month, the patient can begin using minoxidil over the implanted area, promoting increased blood supply.
