Hair loss can happen for many reasons—genetics, hormonal imbalances, or even medical treatments. But one often overlooked cause is scarring, which may result from burns, injuries, or surgeries. These scars can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows, or even the body, leaving patches where hair no longer grows. Understandably, many people with visible scarring wonder: Can hair transplants be performed on these areas? The answer is yes, but with a few important considerations. If you’re looking into a Hair Transplant in Islamabad, it’s vital to consult with experienced professionals who specialize in this type of restoration. Clinics like SKN Cosmetic Clinic are leading the way in offering tailored treatments, even for complex cases involving scarred tissue.
Understanding Hair Loss from Scarring
Scarring can damage or destroy hair follicles, leaving the affected area smooth and bald. Common causes of scarring hair loss include:
- Burn injuries (thermal or chemical)
- Surgical scars from previous medical procedures
- Trauma or accidents
- Infections like folliculitis or fungal scalp infections
- Autoimmune conditions such as lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus
- Radiation therapy
Unlike regular baldness, scarred areas have limited blood supply and elasticity, which makes hair regrowth more difficult. That’s where a skilled hair transplant surgeon comes in.
Can Hair Be Transplanted onto Scarred Skin?
Yes, it is possible to perform hair transplants on scar tissue, but success depends on several factors:
- Thickness and location of the scar
- Type of scarring (raised, flat, or depressed)
- Blood flow in the affected area
- Size of the scarred patch
- Overall health of the donor area
If the scar tissue is stable, mature, and well-healed, then it can support transplanted hair follicles. A pre-transplant assessment—often including a test graft—helps determine the viability of the scarred tissue.
How Does a Hair Transplant Work on Scarred Areas?
The process of transplanting hair into scar tissue is similar to traditional hair transplant procedures, but with more precision and customization.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Consultation and Evaluation: The surgeon examines the scar, measures blood flow, and may perform a small test transplant to see how the area responds.
- Donor Hair Extraction: Healthy hair follicles are harvested from the back or sides of the scalp using either the FUE or FUT technique.
- Recipient Site Preparation: Micro-incisions are made in the scar tissue to implant the hair follicles at the correct angle and depth.
- Graft Placement: The follicles are placed strategically to mimic natural hair growth and cover the scar effectively.
- Post-Procedure Care: Aftercare is essential for scarred areas to ensure proper healing and maximum graft survival.
What Techniques Are Most Effective?
Both FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) can be used on scarred areas, but FUE is more commonly recommended due to its less invasive nature and higher flexibility in targeting small or delicate areas.
Additionally, some cases may benefit from combined treatments such as:
- Microneedling or laser therapy to improve scar elasticity before the transplant
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy to stimulate blood flow and enhance graft survival
Success Rate of Hair Transplants on Scarred Skin
The success rate is generally lower than transplants on healthy, non-scarred skin due to reduced vascularity in scar tissue. However, with modern techniques and proper patient selection, results can be quite satisfying.
- Success Rate: 60% to 80% (depending on scar condition)
- Growth Timeline: Visible hair starts growing in 3–4 months and improves over 12 months
- Density: Full density may require multiple sessions, especially for large scars
With the right approach, even tough scars can achieve natural-looking coverage that dramatically improves appearance and confidence.
Where Can Hair Be Transplanted Over Scars?
Hair transplants on scarred areas aren’t limited to the scalp. They can also be performed on:
- Beard and mustache scars (e.g., from injuries or cleft lip surgeries)
- Eyebrow scars
- Body scars
- Surgical scars from previous hair transplants (FUT linear scars)
Each area requires a unique strategy, making surgeon’s expertise all the more crucial.
What Are the Risks?
While relatively safe, transplants over scars come with specific risks, including:
- Lower graft survival
- Prolonged healing
- Possible graft rejection
- Unnatural hair growth direction if not placed precisely
- Need for repeat sessions
These risks can be minimized with thorough planning and skilled execution by an experienced transplant team.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for scar-area hair restoration if:
- Your scar is at least 6–12 months old
- The tissue is stable, flat, and non-inflamed
- You have a healthy donor area
- You have realistic expectations
- You are in good overall health
Your surgeon may recommend a test session to ensure the grafts survive before proceeding with a full transplant.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a Hair Transplant in Islamabad on a scarred area depends on:
- Size of the scar
- Number of grafts required
- Number of sessions needed
- Techniques used (FUE, PRP, etc.)
On average, pricing can range from PKR 80,000 to PKR 250,000+, depending on complexity.
A consultation with a reputable clinic will provide you with a custom treatment plan and cost estimate.
Final Thoughts
So, can hair transplants be done on scarred areas? Absolutely—but it requires expertise, precision, and the right technique. With careful evaluation and personalized planning, patients with scars from trauma, surgery, or burns can achieve natural-looking hair restoration, boosting both appearance and confidence.
If you’re considering a Hair Transplant in Islamabad and have a scarred area that you’d like to restore, it’s crucial to consult with specialists who understand the complexity of working with scar tissue. At SKN Cosmetic Clinic, their team of experienced professionals uses cutting-edge tools and individualized strategies to deliver safe, aesthetic results—even in challenging cases involving scarring. Book your consultation today to explore your options and take the first step toward a fuller, more confident you.
