Failed Hair Transplant HELP!

I had a hair transplant 10 months ago and the results are horrible. I have what is called “cobblestoning” and poor growth. What are my options now?

Unfortunately, cobblestoning is a telltale sign of a bad hair transplant. Many believe that a bad hair transplant means a ‘pluggy’ or ‘doll-like’ hairline, but that is just one of many signs of a poor result. Luckily, this doesn’t occur often in modern day hair restoration.

The term “cobblestoning” refers to a specific type of scarring that occurs in bad hair transplants. Cobblestone scars are blotches of scar tissue that are raised, bumpy and bear a resemblance to cobblestone streets. Fixing this cosmetic issue can be challenging, but not impossible.

The majority of individuals who suffer from ‘cobblestoning’ look to laser/fraxel surgery. Fraxel surgery is an FDA-approved fractional laser technology that resurfaces the skin. The goal of fraxel surgery is to improve the texture of the skin for a smoother appearance.

Laser fraxel surgery does come with some side effects which include redness, swelling, itching, acne and even changes in skin color. Furthermore, since the laser fraxel is typically used on the face, it is unknown whether it will have long-term effects on hair follicles.

That said, it is an FDA-approved treatment for scarring and unsightly skin conditions. Therefore, it appears to be an effective treatment for ‘cobblestoning’ however, a better alternative may be another hair transplant. While yes, another hair transplant sounds counter-intuitive it is often the best solution.

A refined hair transplant can camouflage the appearance of poor scarring. This is because the hair that is transplanted in the affected area cover the scars. However, it is important to select a hair transplant surgeon with a proven track record of repairing hair transplant patients.

Written and published by,

Melvin- Editorial Assistant and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network and The Coalition of Independent Hair Restoration Physicians