Small Bumps after Hair Transplant

I have had a hair transplant with a local clinic about 1 1/2 years ago and I am not that satisfied with their work. I can conceal it pretty well and Finasterid is currently stopping my hair loss. However, there are two or three bumps in the temple area where the clinic transplanted hair. You can barely see them because of the hair covering it but I can feel them. Will they go away over time? Are they dangerous? — J.

Thanks for the question, J. The bumps could be a few things. Since they are not very noticeable, they are probably of no concern and almost certainly would pose no danger. If a graft was not properly trimmed and excess tissue was left, the area may be raised or a small bump can result. Larger incisions can also create a little scarring which could also be the case. In either of these scenarios, it is not likely to diminish over time at this stage. If there is an ingrown hair, the spots would likely continue to get bigger over time and some inflammation may be present. In this case, the ingrown hair would need to be freed. This may solve the problem but once in a while when the new growth cycle occurs and a new hair comes in, it could possibly get trapped under the skin again.

It is difficult to be accurate without being able to see the area. For a little better diagnosis, send good clear photos of the areas in question via our hair transplant consultation form. I hope this helps. Good luck.

— Jerry Wong, MD