What to Do with a Bad Hair Transplant 

Hair transplant surgeries have become increasingly popular as a long-term solution for hair loss. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there is always the risk of complications or unsatisfactory results. A bad hair transplant can leave patients feeling emotionally distressed and unsure of how to proceed. 

In this guide, we will explore what to do if you have experienced a bad hair transplant and how to address cosmetic surgery negligence. We will delve into the signs of a failed hair transplant, potential corrective measures that can help, and steps to take if you suspect negligence.

Identifying a Bad Hair Transplant

If you are concerned that your hair transplant has gone wrong, watch for the following signs:

Over-harvested donor area with cobblestone appearance: this could indicate excessive surgery. 

Donor scarring outside the safe zone: this could be too high and/or lateral. 

Inappropriately angled or distributed grafts in the hairline: grafts in the hairline should be correctly angled and at the front of the hairline only singular rather than multiple grafts should be placed. 

Uneven or unnatural hair growth: successful hair transplants should result in a natural-looking hairline and evenly distributed hair. If your hair appears patchy or noticeably different in thickness, it may indicate a failed procedure.

Visible scarring or unnatural hairlines: excessive scarring, ridging, or an unnatural hairline can be a sign of a poorly executed hair transplant.

Infection, excessive pain, or other complications: post-operative complications such as infection, persistent pain, or delayed healing may indicate negligence in the surgical process or aftercare.

Corrective Measures for a Bad Hair Transplant

If you suspect your hair transplant has gone awry, consult with an experienced and reputable hair restoration specialist to determine the cause and explore corrective options:

Non-surgical solutions: some issues can be addressed without further surgery. For instance, low-level laser therapy can promote hair growth and improve the overall appearance.

Revision hair transplantation: in some cases, a secondary hair transplant surgery can be performed to correct the mistakes of the previous procedure. This may involve transplanting additional hair grafts, redistributing existing ones, or removing poorly placed grafts.

Scalp micropigmentation: this non-surgical treatment uses pigment to create the illusion of a fuller head of hair or camouflage scarring. It can be useful to other corrective measures or a standalone solution for certain issues.

Recognising Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

Cosmetic surgery negligence occurs when a medical professional fails to meet the standard of care expected of them by UK law, resulting in harm or injury to the patient. In the context of hair transplantation, negligence can manifest in various ways:

Inadequate pre-operative assessment or planning: proper evaluation of the patient's medical history, hair loss pattern, and how much hair is available in the donor area is crucial for successful hair transplant surgery. Negligence in this aspect can lead to unrealistic expectations, unsatisfactory results, or increased risk of complications.

Poor surgical technique: a surgeon's skill, experience, and technique are critical factors in the success of a hair transplant. Negligence can include inexperienced staff handling the procedure, improper or excessive graft harvesting or placement, inappropriately placed donor incisions or using outdated methods.

Insufficient post-operative care and follow-up: proper aftercare is essential for the success of a hair transplant. Negligent aftercare can result in infection, prolonged healing, or suboptimal results.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Negligence

If you believe you have been a victim of cosmetic surgery negligence, take the following steps:

Document your experience: keep detailed records of your pre- and post-operative experiences, including photographs, medical records, and any correspondence with your surgeon. This documentation will be vital in pursuing legal action if necessary.

Seek a second opinion: consult with another hair restoration specialist for an unbiased assessment of your situation. This expert opinion can help you determine if negligence occurred and if corrective measures are necessary.

Consult a legal professional: if you suspect negligence, contact a solicitor who specialises in cosmetic surgery negligence. They can advise you on your options for seeking compensation and guide you through the legal process.

File a complaint: Report your experience to the appropriate medical board or licensing body, which may prompt an investigation into the practitioner's conduct. This step can help protect future patients from potential negligence.

Contact us

At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we understand the issues that can come with hair transplant surgery if it is not done correctly. We regularly help those who are treated negligently to seek compensation for their grief.

If you have suffered at the hands of a cosmetic surgeon, contact us after you have sought medical help, and we will discuss how we may be able to help you seek and secure the help you need. Call us on 0808 189 7708, or fill out an online contact form and we will return your call at a time specified by you.