Hair Transplant On Scars: When to Do It & What to Expect

Hair loss isn’t always a simple cosmetic concern. It can stem from various causes, such as hormonal imbalances, autoimmune conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or even traumatic injuries. That’s why it’s important not to self-diagnose or rely solely on over-the-counter solutions. Consulting a qualified medical professional is key to identifying the underlying issue and determining the right approach.

You may have noticed a patch of hair that just won’t grow back – maybe from an old injury, a surgical scar, previous inflammatory scalp conditions that cause hair loss and scarring, or even a childhood accident. And now you’re wondering if a hair transplant could restore hair in that area. It’s a valid question, especially if the scar is in a highly visible area like your scalp, eyebrow, or beard. Below, we walk you through when hair transplants on scars are appropriate, how the process works, and what kind of results you can realistically expect.

Can hair grow on scars?

Scar tissue differs from normal skin. It’s denser, has less vascularity or blood flow, and often lacks hair follicles. Because of this, hair usually doesn’t grow naturally on scarred areas. However, modern advancements in hair restoration techniques have made it possible to transplant hair into some types of scar tissue successfully¹. The catch is that it depends on several factors, including the type, age, and depth of the scar.

When is the right time for a hair transplant on a scar?

The scar must be fully healed and mature before considering any kind of transplant. This usually takes about 6 to 12 months, depending on the extent of the injury. A mature scar is flatter, lighter in colour, and softer in texture compared to a fresh one.

Trying to transplant hair too early – before the scar tissue stabilises – can lead to poor graft survival and unsatisfactory results. If you’re unsure whether your scar is ready, a consultation with a dermatologist in Singapore can provide clarity and help assess the transplant’s viability.

Types of scars suitable for hair transplant

Not all scars are created equal. Here are some common types where transplants are often considered:

Linear scars: Often from surgeries or accidents, these can sometimes be camouflaged with hair grafts.
Burn scars: If the skin is stable and blood flow is sufficient, transplants may work, though success rates vary.
Keloid or hypertrophic scars: These raised, thickened scars are possible with transplants, though they usually aren’t suitable due to poor vascularity and a higher risk of complications or worsening/spread of the keloid scars.

A proper assessment is essential to determine whether your scar can support transplanted follicles.

How does the procedure work?

The process is similar to a regular hair transplant. Hair follicles – usually from the back or sides of your scalp – are harvested using techniques like FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) or FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation). These grafts are then carefully implanted into the scarred area.

Because scar tissue is tougher and has less blood supply, the surgeon must be highly skilled to ensure the grafts are placed at the correct angle and depth. They may recommend preparing the scar area before hand to ensure better graft survival by procedures that help to soften the scar and improve vascularity in the area. This can include treatments such as fractional lasers, microneedling, microneedle radiofrequency, radiofrequency treatments or even fat grafting just to name a few. They may also plan to stage the hair transplantation by putting in a lower density of grafts the first time around to ensure that there is adequate existing blood supply to support the new hair grafts. Increasing the density of the transplanted grafts in the scar area can be undertaken later on with a second or even third transplant to improve the chances of the follicles surviving and thriving in their new home.

What to expect during recovery

Recovery time is typically similar to a standard hair transplant. You may notice some redness, swelling, or scabbing in the treated area, which usually subsides within a week or so. However, full results take time – often 9 to 12 months – as the transplanted follicles go through natural growth cycles.

Since scarring affects blood flow, hair may grow slightly slower or appear less dense than in non-scarred areas. But with realistic expectations and proper aftercare, many patients are satisfied with the improvement in appearance.

Is it safe?

Hair transplant procedures are generally safe, especially when performed by an experienced professional. That said, every procedure carries some risks, including infection, poor graft survival, or uneven growth. These risks are slightly higher when working on scar tissue, making it all the more important to choose a skilled and qualified provider who understands how to evaluate the suitability of the scar tissue and also manage the pre- and post-operative care optimally.

Patients should also understand that not all transplanted hair may survive. Success rates can be lower than a regular hair transplantation into normal scalp tissue and may range from 50% to 80% depending on scar type, location, and surgical technique². In some cases, additional sessions or touch-ups may be required.

Other options to consider

While hair transplant is a promising option, it’s not the only one. Treatments like scalp micropigmentation and laser therapy can help improve the appearance of scars or even stimulate better hair growth. Some patients explore maximising hair transplant results with combination treatments, where non-surgical therapies are used alongside or after the transplant.

Again, the best course of action varies from person to person. That’s why a tailored approach from a specialist matters.

Talk to the right expert

If you’re considering a hair transplant on a scar, the first step is getting an expert opinion. A qualified dermatologist in Singapore can assess the nature of your scar, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalised plan that works for you. Not all clinics have experience with scar transplants, so do your research and ensure you’re in good hands.

Conclusion

Hair transplant on scars is absolutely possible, but it requires careful planning, realistic expectations, and the right medical guidance. Whether it’s a childhood injury or a reminder of a more recent event, there are ways to minimise its appearance and restore hair in that area.

If you’re thinking about taking the next step, consider reaching out to Angeline Yong Dermatology. Offering cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology treatments in Singapore, our experienced team can walk you through the best options for your skin and hair restoration journey.

References

Jung, S., Oh, S. J., & Hoon Koh, S. (2013). Hair follicle transplantation on scar tissue. The Journal of craniofacial surgery, 24(4), 1239–1241. https://doi.org/10.1097/SCS.0b013e31828a78ad

Farjo, B., Farjo, N., & Williams, G. (2015). Hair transplantation in burn scar alopecia. Scars, burns & healing, 1, 2059513115607764. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059513115607764

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Hair Transplant On Scars: When to Do It & What to Expect