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Hair Transplant in Scarring Alopecia

Hair transplantation in scarring alopecia is a surgical approach to dealing with hair loss caused by various forms of cicatricial alopecia. Conditions such as Lichen Planopilaris cause inflammation, which damages hair follicles and leads to permanent hair loss and scarring on the scalp. During the hair transplant, follicles are taken from unaffected areas and transplanted into the scarred areas. The success of this type of hair transplant depends highly on the suitability of the donor area and the extent of scarring.

Hair Transplant In Cicatricial, Scarring Alopecia

In recent years, individuals facing the challenges of scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, have increasingly turned to hair transplant procedures as a reliable solution to restore not only their lost hair but also their confidence. One clinic that has gained global recognition for its doctors’ expertise in hair transplantation in cases of scarring alopecia is Civas Hair Transplant Clinic, located in Ankara, Turkey.

But first, let’s understand scarring alopecia.

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a type of hair loss condition characterized by the permanent destruction of hair follicles due to inflammation. Unlike some other forms of alopecia, scarring alopecia results in irreversible hair loss, as the hair follicles are replaced by scar tissue. This condition can have various underlying causes, including autoimmune disorders, infections, or physical trauma to the scalp. Scarring alopecia is often accompanied by symptoms like itching, burning, and pain in the affected areas, and it can progress slowly over time, leading to a significant loss of hair and sometimes permanent baldness.

While there are various treatments used in cases of scarring alopecia, the treatment of scarring alopecia through hair transplants offers a promising solution for individuals facing the challenges of this condition. Scarring alopecia can be emotionally distressing for those affected. However, hair transplant procedures have emerged as a transformative option, offering renewed hope and confidence. What makes hair transplant particularly effective is that the transplanted hair continues to grow naturally, blending seamlessly with the existing hair and providing a lasting remedy for scarring alopecia.

Alt: Before and after pictures of a patient suffering from Foliculitis decalvans, a type of scarring alopecia. FUE hair transplant was performed by Dr. Ekrem Civas to cover some of the scars.

hair transplant in scarring alopecia

Alt: Before and after pictures of patient suffering from secondary cicatricial alopecia. FUe hair transplant was performed with successful results.

Why Diagnosing Scarring Alopecia Is Crucial Before Opting For A Hair Transplant

In recent years, hair transplants have gained popularity as a reliable solution for hair loss, and they indeed offer remarkable results for many individuals. However, when it comes to scarring alopecia, a meticulous diagnosis before considering a hair transplant is of paramount importance.

One of the primary reasons for diagnosing scarring alopecia before a hair transplant is to accurately identify the underlying condition. Scarring alopecia is a complex disorder with various subtypes, each requiring a tailored approach to treatment. Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments, potentially exacerbating the condition. Therefore, a precise diagnosis ensures that the right treatment method is chosen, whether it involves medical management, topical treatments, or a hair transplant procedure.

A critical aspect of diagnosing scarring alopecia is managing the patient’s expectations. Scarring alopecia can result in varying degrees of hair loss and scarring. An accurate diagnosis helps patients understand the potential results of a hair transplant, ensuring that they have realistic expectations regarding the extent of improvement and the number of sessions required for optimal outcomes.

 

Finally, diagnosing scarring alopecia allows for the provision of comprehensive care and aftercare. Patients with this condition may require ongoing medical treatment or additional procedures in conjunction with their hair transplant. A correct diagnosis ensures that a well-rounded treatment plan is established, enhancing the overall success of the patient’s hair restoration journey.

 

FUE: The Gold Standard For Hair Transplants In Scarring Alopecia

The best hair transplant method for cicatricial alopecia ultimately depends on the unique characteristics of the patient’s condition. Factors such as the extent of scarring, the presence of active inflammation, and the patient’s overall health play a crucial role in determining the most suitable approach. It is essential to consult with a qualified hair transplant specialist like Dr. Civas or Dr. Akpınar, both expert dermatologists working at Civas Hair Transplant Clinic in Turkey, who can assess the individual’s specific case and recommend the optimal method based on their needs and goals.

The FUE method, Follicular Unit Extraction, however stands as the gold standard in hair transplantation for cicatricial alopecia. The use of specialized micro-tools allows for a meticulous and targeted approach. This precision is particularly advantageous in scarring alopecia cases, where preserving existing hair and minimizing further damage to the scalp is essential. FUE is especially attractive for individuals with cicatricial alopecia due to its minimal scarring, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a less visible donor site scar. This method also provides a high degree of precision and is known for its natural-looking results.

The extent of scarring is a pivotal factor in identifying hair transplant candidates among cicatricial alopecia patients. Patients with minimal or localized scarring may be better candidates for the procedure, as the presence of extensive scarring can pose challenges to graft survival and overall success. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified hair transplant specialist is crucial to determine the suitability of the patient.

Active inflammation in the scalp is another significant consideration. Hair transplant procedures are generally more successful in patients with stabilized or inactive cicatricial alopecia. Active inflammation can hinder the success of the hair transplant, making it vital for patients to undergo medical management to control inflammation before considering the procedure.

It is essential to conduct a thorough assessment that considers the extent of scarring, the activity of inflammation, overall health, and individual goals. By adopting a personalized approach to care and informed decision-making, patients with cicatricial alopecia can determine if a hair transplant, with the guidance of experts such as those at Civas Hair Transplant Clinic in Turkey, is the right solution for their unique needs. This approach allows patients to embark on a transformative journey toward hair restoration and renewed confidence under the care of experienced professionals in the field.

Key Factors Affecting Hair Transplant Results In Cicatricial Alopecia

Cicatricial alopecia, presents unique challenges for individuals seeking hair transplant procedures. To ensure successful results, several crucial factors come into play:

  • Type of Cicatricial Alopecia: Different subtypes of scarring alopecia, such as lichen planopilaris or frontal fibrosing alopecia, exhibit varying characteristics, including the extent of scarring and inflammation. Surgeons must tailor their approach to address these specific nuances effectively. Understanding the type of cicatricial alopecia is fundamental in choosing the right technique and managing patient expectations.
  • Availability of Donor Hair: Patients must have sufficient donor hair to meet their goals. In some cases of extensive cicatricial alopecia, the limited availability of donor hair may require a more conservative approach or a staged hair transplant procedure to maximize the use of available grafts.
  • Scalp Laxity: Scalp laxity refers to the flexibility and elasticity of the scalp. Adequate scalp laxity is essential for successful hair transplantation. A tight or inelastic scalp can complicate the hair transplant procedure, potentially leading to tension on the suture line or grafts, which may affect their survival.
  • Patient’s Healing Characteristics: Individual differences in healing characteristics can influence the outcome of a hair transplant. Factors such as how the patient’s body responds to the procedure, scar formation, and overall healing speed are essential considerations.
  • Vascular Supply: Adequate vascular supply to the recipient area is vital for graft survival. Hair transplant surgeons may use specialized techniques or choose grafts strategically to optimize graft survival.
  • Location of the Subsequent Scar: The location of the subsequent scar from the donor area is an important aesthetic consideration. For individuals with scarring alopecia, a linear scar may be less favorable, as it can be visible when wearing short hair. Surgeons aim to minimize the visibility of the scar, ensuring that it does not compromise the patient’s appearance.

1. Diagnosis and Stabilization

Before embarking on a hair transplant journey for cicatricial alopecia, the first and most vital step is diagnosis. Determining the precise type of scarring alopecia is essential, as each subtype presents unique challenges. Additionally, it is crucial to assess whether the condition is active or if there is any ongoing inflammation. Hair transplant specialists, like those at Civas Hair Transplant in Turkey, emphasize the need for a stable, inflammation-free scalp as the foundation for a successful transplant.

2. Donor Area Assessment and Expectation Management

Following the stabilization of cicatricial alopecia, the focus shifts to evaluating the donor area and the bald spots. This involves a thorough analysis of the quality and availability of donor hair. It is essential to manage patient expectations, ensuring they understand that while the objective is to achieve the best possible results, the procedure may not completely cover the entire affected area. This transparent communication sets realistic expectations.

3. Test Hair Transplant Session

In certain cases, especially when dealing with complex cicatricial alopecia, a test hair transplant session may be required. This session involves the transplant of a smaller number of grafts, typically ranging from 100 to 200. The purpose is to evaluate how well the grafts survive in the recipient area. This mini session serves as a valuable indicator of the patient’s suitability for a full hair transplant and helps determine the hair grafts’ viability.

4. Ongoing Medical Treatment

For patients whose grafts do not survive the hair transplant test session, or for those whose cicatricial alopecia cannot be fully stabilized, ongoing medical treatment is the primary course of action. This treatment aims to manage the condition and minimize its impact.

5. Full Hair Transplant

Assuming the test session is successful and the cicatricial alopecia is stable, a full hair transplant can be performed. Using the most appropriate method, such as FUE, DHI, Sapphire, or others, hair surgeons can extract more grafts and transplant them into the recipient area.

Civas Hair Transplant in Turkey, with its specialized expertise, offers guidance and support throughout this transformative process. Our doctors aim to provide the patient with the best possible results and the most natural-looking outcome. Contact us today to get a diagnosis and let us help you on this journey.

Hair Transplant Treatment For Cicatricial Lichen Planopilaris

Alt: Before and after pictures of patient suffering from Lichen planopilaris. FUE hair transplant was performed with successful results.

Cicatricial lichen planopilaris (LPP),also known as lichen planus, is a skin condition that affects regions of the skin with hair and hair follicles. It results in the destruction of hair follicles, leaving behind scar tissue in its place. This results in both hair loss and the development of scar tissue. LPP is more prevalent in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 and is seen 2 to 5 times more frequently in women than in men. LPP, is characterized by itching, burning, occasional pain, and sensitivity. It leads to a burning sensation or sensitivity in the scalp. The upper part of the scalp, especially the crown, is most commonly affected. Hair loss or areas with scar tissue can be noticeable. Additionally, lichen planus can affect the skin, mouth, genital areas, and nails.

Hair transplantation for scarring alopecia presents unique challenges, primarily stemming from the degenerative changes and reduced blood supply to scarred tissues. Complications can also arise when scarring extends into the safe donor area of the patient, leading to an insufficient supply of grafts necessary for achieving complete coverage. In cases of primary cicatricial alopecia such as lichen planopilaris, it is crucial to confirm that the disease is inactive before performing a hair transplant procedure. As mentioned by Dr .Civas in a published research paper titled: Surgical correction of primary cicatricial alopecia: Experience with nine patients, a waiting period of a minimum of one year should be observed. The disease activity can be assessed through dermatoscopic examination performed by adermatologist, and if necessary, confirmed through pathology.

In some cases, especially for complex LPP, a test hair transplant session may be recommended. During this session, a smaller number of grafts (typically 100-200) are transplanted to evaluate how well the grafts survive. This test session provides insight into the patient’s suitability for a full transplant. When extensive scarring patches on the scalp result in a shortage of suitable donor hair, body hair extracted from beard areas or other parts of the body can be used to perform hair transplants.

Traditional hair transplants primarily use hair from the scalp as donor follicles, but in cases where there’s limited donor hair available, body hair transplant (BHT) has become a viable alternative. BHT involves the extraction of healthy hair follicles from areas like the chest, back, or beard, and transplanting them into the affected scalp regions. This innovative technique can significantly improve the appearance and confidence of individuals dealing with scarring alopecia.

Dr. Civas Case Studies On Hair Transplant In Cicatricial Alopecia

Dr. Ekrem Civas stands out as a leading hair transplant surgeon in Turkey, recognized not only for his surgical expertise but also as a distinguished academician. Driven by his natural curiosity, he continually seeks ways to enhance the techniques employed during hair transplant procedures, aiming for better results and greater patient satisfaction. Dr. Ekrem Civas’ extensive studies and research on scarring alopecia have played a pivotal role in shedding light on the intricacies of this challenging hair disorder.

In 2018, Dr. Civas joined forces with colleagues to conduct a comprehensive study involving nine individuals diagnosed with primary cicatricial alopecia. Prior to commencing the study, they ensured that the patients’ conditions had stabilized, and that the disease was in an inactive state. Their primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Hair Transplant in treating primary cicatricial alopecia. For detailed insights into this study, you can explore the following link: https://jag.journalagent.com/turkderm/pdfs/TURKDERM_52_3_85_90%5BA%5D.pdf 

Following his work with individuals suffering from primary cicatricial alopecia, Dr. Civas initiated another significant study in 2019, this time focusing on 45 patients with secondary cicatricial alopecia. The main objective of this research was to assess the outcomes of utilizing hair transplant surgery as a treatment method for patients with secondary cicatricial alopecia. For a more comprehensive understanding of this research study, please refer to the following link: https://journals.lww.com/tjps/Fulltext/2019/27040/Clinical_Experience_with_Hair_Transplantation_for.3.aspx 

In 2022, Dr. Ekrem Civas and Dr. Akpınar published two significant articles focusing on cicatricial alopecia, titled ‘Approach to Scalp Scars’ and ‘Innovations in Cicatricial Alopecia.’ These articles delve into surgical interventions, such as hair transplantation, for individuals with primary and secondary cicatricial alopecia. Moreover, they explore supplementary and innovative treatments that can be applied when conventional approaches prove inadequate or insufficient.

For more in-depth information on these research papers, you can refer to the following links:

  1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361163832_Sacli_deri_skarlarina_yaklasim
  2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362253715_Skatrisyel_Alopeside_Yenilikler

Why Choose Civas Hair Transplant For Cicatricial Alopecia?

For individuals grappling with cicatricial alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, the decision of where to seek hair transplant treatment is a crucial one. Among the numerous options available, Civas Hair Transplant in Ankara, Turkey stands out as a top choice. And here are the reasons why.

At the heart of Civas Hair Transplant’s reputation is the expertise of its founder, Dr. Ekrem Civas. As a renowned hair surgeon in Turkey and a distinguished academician, Dr. Civas brings not only surgical skills but also a commitment to innovating the field of hair restoration. His extensive studies and research on scarring alopecia have played a pivotal role in shedding light on the intricacies of this challenging hair disorder, making him a trusted authority in the field.

Civas Hair Transplant’s commitment to research and development is evident in their extensive case studies. Dr. Civas’ studies involving both primary and secondary cicatricial alopecia have provided invaluable insights into the effectiveness of hair transplantation in treating these conditions. This research not only advances the understanding of cicatricial alopecia but also ensures that patients receive the most cutting-edge and evidence-based hair transplant treatments available.

Civas Hair Transplant specializes in addressing cicatricial alopecia, making it uniquely positioned to understand and treat this challenging condition. The clinic’s focus on scarring alopecia means that the team is experienced in tailoring hair transplant treatment plans to the unique needs of each patient, maximizing the chances of successful outcomes.

Get in touch with us to schedule your complimentary consultation at Civas Hair Transplant Clinic today.

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