Redness After Hair Transplant: Causes, Symptoms, and Duration

Redness After Hair Transplant: Causes, Symptoms, and Duration

Updated at Sep 30, 2024
after hair transplantation

Redness and swelling after hair transplant are frequent. It usually goes away on its own, but in certain circumstances, treatment may be required. Both the skin and the scabs that grow around the transplanted grafts are red. So, it is natural to experience some redness after the procedure. No need to be alarmed because there will be some complications after the surgery, such as itching after hair transplant, but they do not necessarily are signs of a serious problem.

What Is Redness After the Hair Transplant?

After your hair transplant, the red color of your skin may be noticed in the donor and the recipient areas. This redness is common during the healing process. Because surgery requires small incisions into your skin, these wounds will begin to heal. The problem might occur due to problems in hair washing after hair transplant. If you use hot water to wash your hair, the redness might get so much worse.

How Long Does the Redness Last?

Many people may notice that their redness has disappeared within two weeks. The redness on your scalp should fade as the wounds on your scalp heals. The majority of hair transplants recover around 7 days after hair transplant. This healing process, however, might take longer in certain massive hair transplant cases. But the longest it might last is for a month.

Will the Redness Affect My Transplant’s Success?

Redness after the transplant typically should not interfere with your transplant. However, in rare circumstances, redness is not caused by natural healing, and you should consult with your surgeon to monitor your progress. Here are the most common reasons for redness other than natural processes:

  • Folliculitis Folliculitis may appear as little red pimples growing around each hair. It can be irritating and uncomfortable. This is a pretty typical problem following a hair transplant. A bacterial infection might be the source of the problem. You may leave it alone, and it will cure itself over time. However, we encourage you to see your surgeon and get it carefully examined.

  • Cysts Cysts are tiny, round sacks that develop beneath the skin's surface. They can arise in either the donor or recipient region of the scalp. They might occur due to a wide range of factors, including grafts that are not adequately removed from the donor region or implanted. Cysts can be identified when they turn red and become painful. Please consult your surgeon if you believe you have cysts. Cysts are typically cured with antibiotics.

What Causes Redness After Hair Transplant?

Redness after a hair transplant, particularly FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), is primarily caused by the trauma inflicted on the scalp during the procedure. This trauma triggers inflammation as the body's natural response to the procedure. The tiny incisions made in both the donor and recipient areas can lead to varying degrees of redness.

Symptoms of Redness After Hair Transplant

Symptoms include noticeable redness on the scalp, which can vary in intensity depending on the individual's skin sensitivity and the extent of the procedure. The redness is often more pronounced immediately after the transplant and gradually subsides over time.

Is it Normal to Have Scalp Redness After FUE Hair Transplant?

Yes, experiencing scalp redness after an FUE hair transplant is entirely normal. It's a natural part of the healing process and typically resolves on its own as the scalp heals.

How to Reduce Redness After Hair Transplant?

Reducing redness post-transplant involves gentle care and following your surgeon's post-operative instructions:

  • Avoiding Sun Exposure: Protect the scalp from direct sunlight, as UV rays can exacerbate redness.
  • Using Recommended Products: Your surgeon may recommend specific topical solutions or creams to soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation.
  • Avoiding Harsh Products: Refrain from using harsh shampoos or styling products that could irritate the scalp further.
  • Cool Compresses: Applying cool, damp compresses to the scalp can help alleviate redness and discomfort.

When to See a Doctor If Redness Persists After Hair Transplant?

While some degree of redness is expected and typically resolves within a few weeks, persistent or worsening redness beyond this timeframe may indicate an issue. It's advisable to consult your surgeon if:

  • The redness does not improve after a few weeks.
  • You experience increasing pain, swelling, or discharge from the transplant sites.
  • There are signs of infection such as fever or excessive warmth around the scalp. At ASMED Surgical Medical Center, we are dedicated to helping people look and feel their best through the use of cutting-edge digital technology in FUE hair transplant (Follicular Unit Extraction). Our advanced tools for scalp analysis and Coverage Value calculations set a new standard in the field of hair restoration.

From the innovative KE-Bot robotic scanning system to the K.E.E.P. embedding placer, Dr. Koray Erdogan’s groundbreaking FUE techniques have garnered international recognition among hair transplant surgeons. His meticulous surgical planning process allows for real-time adjustments, ensuring a natural and balanced result.

By combining scientific precision, mathematical accuracy, and artistic expertise, we deliver the exceptional outcomes our patients desire. Supported by state-of-the-art technology, ASMED is widely recognized as one of the top hair transplant clinics in Turkey and a global leader in hair restoration.

If you experience any complications after the surgery, consult your doctor at Asmed clinic to make sure there is no problem with your healing process. Our medical staff will make sure you get all the attention you need throughout your recovery period. So, if you have any questions or problems regarding FUE hair transplants, contact us. For online consultation, reach out to the Asmed team!

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