In hair transplantation, the donor area is the back of the head and the area above the ears, where hair follicles resistant to hair loss are taken. If too many follicles are taken from this area, i.e. if overharvesting occurs, permanent thinning and scarring may result. When hair becomes sparse, the skin becomes visible. At the same time, a bumpy appearance or scar tissue may develop on the skin surface. This does not provide an aesthetic appearance and, in addition, the necessary hair follicles cannot be provided for patients who need a second hair transplant.
Medical treatments for repair
Even if the hair follicles in the donor area are resistant to shedding, it is difficult for new hair follicles to grow. If the follicles in the overharvested area have been completely lost, medical methods alone will not suffice. However, they are important for supporting the quality and density of the existing hair.
Minoxidil and finasteride
These medications help existing hair follicles remain healthy, thicken hair strands, and partially reduce the appearance of thinning hair.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
It involves stimulating the hair follicles with infrared laser beams. By increasing blood circulation, the hair follicles become more vibrant.
PRP and hair mesotherapy
Istanbul PRP treatment involves injecting plasma obtained from the patient's own blood. With mesotherapy, vitamin and mineral cocktails are applied to the scalp. The aim of these treatments is to nourish the scalp, making it healthier and stronger.
Cosmetic solutions
When medical and surgical methods are not suitable for repairing overharvesting, cosmetic methods are preferred.
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP)
Micropigmentation is a method similar to tattooing. Small dots of pigment are applied to the scalp to make the overharvested area look fuller.
Hair fibres and Temporary concealers
Hair fibres and temporary concealers: These products offer a solution for daily use. Once applied, the product adheres to the hair strands, creating the appearance of greater density.
Surgical repair methods
These are the most effective methods for patients experiencing overharvesting issues:
FUE to increase density
This method involves harvesting follicles from healthy areas outside the donor site and transplanting them into the affected patches. This helps to eliminate the sparse appearance in the donor area. To achieve a natural and dense look, it is essential not to cause further overharvesting in the areas where hair follicles are collected. Therefore, choosing an experienced surgeon is crucial.
FUT scar revision
If scarring remains after previous FUT operations, these wide scars can be surgically corrected and made more aesthetically pleasing.
Body hair transplant (BHT)
Strong follicles taken from areas such as the beard, chest, or back can be used to restore the donor site. However, body hair and scalp hair differ in growth pattern and structure, so careful technique is required. The surgeon's skill and precision play a key role in the success of BHT procedures.
Combined surgical approaches
In some cases, combining Istanbul FUE and BHT methods provides more effective results. During the consultation, if the surgeon determines that FUE or FUT alone may not deliver sufficient coverage, they may recommend combining the procedure with BHT to achieve the best outcome.
Using different methods together
When a single method is insufficient for treating overharvesting, medical support, surgical repair and cosmetic concealers are used together. This achieves more natural and aesthetic results.
Which method is right for you?
The correct method varies depending on the patient. Therefore, it is not appropriate to make a general comment. During your consultation with your surgeon, the method to be selected will be determined based on the patient's hair type, the current condition of the donor area, the degree of hair loss, and their expectations. While satisfactory results can be achieved with minor support in some patients, surgical repair and/or combined methods are used in others.
How many sessions are needed?
A single session is usually sufficient for most treatments, including hair transplantation procedures. However, the number of sessions may increase depending on the patient's needs. The number of sessions cannot be determined without examining the patient. First, it must be decided which treatments will be applied.
When will the results be visible?
The results of cosmetic treatments can be seen immediately. However, the results of medical and surgical procedures usually begin to appear after six months. It takes approximately one year for newly transplanted hair to grow fully and for the results to be clearly visible.
Aftercare and recovery guidelines
First and foremost, all of the surgeon's instructions must be followed. In addition, it is very important to protect the area from trauma and maintain proper hygiene after the operation. The surgical area must be protected from heat and cold, and strenuous activities should be avoided during the first week after surgery.
What If Repair of Severe Overharvesting Is Not Possible?
When the problem of overharvesting cannot be remedied, you can try solutions such as scalp micropigmentation or hair simulation. These methods make thinning hair appear fuller. Although they do not provide a permanent solution, they improve the aesthetic appearance.
What are the aesthetic and psychological effects of overharvesting?
A thinning and patchy donor area can lead to a loss of self-confidence in individuals. This situation can negatively affect them in their social relationships, professional life, and psychological well-being. Therefore, restoration methods provide relief not only physically but also psychologically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the donor area fully recover?
Unfortunately, in areas that have been overharvested, the roots do not grow back. However, satisfactory results can be achieved through repair and camouflage methods. As a result, although the donor area does not fully recover, it does improve.
Are repair treatments permanent?
Surgical methods are permanent. However, medical and cosmetic solutions are temporary and require regular maintenance.
How long should I wait before having another hair transplant?
After the first hair transplant, you must wait at least 12 months before having another procedure. You must wait this period to see the results clearly. The surgeon then assesses the condition of the donor area and applies the necessary treatment.