Hair Transplants on Scars: Do They Really Work?

Hair Transplants on Scars: Do They Really Work?

• September 30, 2025
• Dr. Arthur Zacco

Last updated on November 11, 2025

Scars can form for many reasons. Some people develop them after accidents, burns, or surgery, while others may have scars left behind from past skin conditions. When scars appear on the scalp, they often create patches where hair no longer grows. Understandably, many people wonder: can hair grow on scars and if so, how? One promising solution is a hair transplant on scar tissue. But does it really work?

Why Scars Prevent Hair Growth

To understand why scars cause bald patches, it helps to know how scarring affects the skin. Hair follicles are tiny structures within the scalp that produce hair strands. When skin is damaged deeply enough to form a scar, the follicles in that area are often destroyed.

Instead of regenerating as normal skin would, scar tissue forms as a thick, fibrous layer that lacks the structures needed for hair growth. This is why hair often fails to regrow naturally on scars, whether they are small surgical marks or larger areas caused by trauma.

Can Hair Grow on Scars?

Naturally, hair does not grow on scars because the follicles in those areas are gone. However, modern hair restoration techniques have made it possible to implant new follicles directly into scar tissue.

This is where a hair transplant on scar tissue becomes an effective option. By surgically transferring healthy follicles from another area of the scalp to the scar through an FUE or FUT hair transplant, doctors can restore natural-looking hair growth. While results may vary depending on scar type and location, many patients achieve excellent, permanent outcomes.

How Hair Transplants on Scars Work

The process of performing a hair transplant on a scar is similar to a standard transplant, but it requires more planning and precision.

1. Evaluation of the scar: The doctor first assesses the scar’s size, thickness and blood supply. These factors determine whether follicles can successfully take root.
2. Harvesting donor follicles: Healthy hair follicles are typically taken from the back or sides of the head, where hair is more resistant to thinning.
3. Implanting into scar tissue: The harvested follicles are carefully implanted into the scar, often at specific angles to ensure natural growth patterns.
4. Healing and regrowth: Over the following months, the transplanted follicles establish a blood supply and begin to produce new hair.
5. FUT Donor Scar Removal: Dr. Arthur Zacco has experience with scar reduction. This involves removing the wide donor scar produced by other facilities, resulting in a narrower, much less noticeable scar.

Because scar tissue has less blood flow than normal skin, transplants in these areas can be more challenging. However, with the right surgical techniques and aftercare, growth is very possible.

Types of Scars That Can Be Treated

Not all scars are the same, and results may vary depending on their type:

• Surgical scars: Linear scars from procedures such as facelifts, craniotomies, or prior hair transplants often respond well to follicle implantation.
• Accidental scars: Scars caused by cuts or burns can often be improved with hair transplantation, depending on severity.
• Medical condition scars: Scarring alopecia, where inflammation destroys follicles, may require careful evaluation before considering a transplant.

An experienced hair transplant surgeon will examine the scar to determine whether transplantation is likely to succeed.

Success Rates of Hair Transplants on Scars

So, how effective are these procedures? Studies and clinical experience show that hair can indeed grow on scars once healthy follicles are transplanted. Success rates vary but can reach 60%–95% depending on the condition of the scar and the skill of your surgeon.

Transplanted hair on scar tissue often grows more slowly than in unaffected areas, but with time, it can blend well with surrounding hair.

How to Regrow Hair on a Scalp Scar

If you are wondering how to regrow hair on scalp scar tissue, the most reliable solution is a professional hair transplant performed by an experienced surgeon. While over-the-counter creams, oils, or medications may improve scalp health, they cannot replace destroyed follicles.

In some cases, non-surgical treatments like microneedling or Growth Factor Therapy can be used alongside transplantation to improve blood supply and healing, increasing the chances of success. Combining therapies often leads to the best cosmetic outcome.

Factors That Affect the Results

Several factors influence the success of a hair transplant on scar tissue:

• Age and health of the patient: General health can impact healing.
• Scar thickness and flexibility: Softer, well-healed scars accept transplanted follicles more easily.
• Blood supply to the scar: Adequate circulation is crucial for follicle survival.
• Surgeon’s expertise: Experience with scar transplants is key to natural and lasting results.

This is why consultation with a specialist is important. A thorough evaluation ensures realistic expectations and a treatment plan tailored to the individual.

Recovery and Aftercare

After a hair transplant in scar tissue, recovery is generally similar to standard procedures. Patients may experience mild swelling or redness, which usually resolves in a few days.

Key aftercare steps include:

• Keeping the area clean and avoiding scratching.
• Following all instructions for washing and protecting the transplanted area.
• Avoiding strenuous activity for a short period to protect grafts.
• Returning for follow-up visits to monitor healing.

Most patients begin to see new growth within three to six months, with full results visible after one year, which you can see in these before and after photos.

Yes, Hair Can Grow on Scars – With the Right Treatment!

So, can hair grow on scars? While scars naturally prevent hair from growing, modern hair transplant techniques make regrowth possible. By transplanting healthy follicles into scar tissue, skilled surgeons can restore natural-looking coverage and reduce the appearance of scars.

If you are living with a scalp scar and wondering how to regrow hair on scalp scar tissue, a consultation with a specialist is the best place to start. At AZ Hair Restoration, Dr. Arthur Zacco and his team combine expertise with advanced hair transplantation technology and supportive medical hair growth treatments to help patients achieve lasting, natural results. Book your free consultation today and explore your options for restoring hair on scars.

FAQs

Can you get a hair transplant on a scar?

Yes, you can get a hair transplant on a scar. Skilled surgeons can implant healthy follicles into scar tissue, allowing new hair to grow and cover the area. Success depends on the scar’s thickness, blood supply and flexibility. At AZ Hair Restoration in Raleigh, NC, Dr. Arthur Zacco has extensive experience with scar transplants. Book your free consultation today to learn if you are a good candidate for this treatment.

Can you regrow hair on a scar?

Hair does not naturally regrow in scars because the follicles are destroyed when scar tissue forms. The most effective way to restore hair is through a surgical transplant, where new follicles are placed into the scar. With proper healing, these follicles can grow normally. At our hair restoration clinic in Raleigh, we specialize in restoring natural growth on scar tissue using hair transplants and medical regrowth treatments. Schedule your free consultation today to explore the best solution for regrowing hair on scars.

How much is a hair transplant on a scar in North Carolina?

The cost of a hair transplant on a scar varies depending on the scar’s size, location and the number of grafts needed. Prices are generally similar to standard FUE or FUT procedures, but smaller scars may require fewer grafts and therefore less expense. At AZ Hair Restoration, we provide transparent pricing and flexible options. Book a free consultation today at our Raleigh, NC, clinic to receive a personalized cost estimate for your scar hair transplant.

How can I hide my hair transplant scars?

If you have scars from a previous hair transplant or other surgery, new techniques can help hide them. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) leaves minimal scarring, and healthy follicles can be transplanted directly into older scar tissue to disguise it, while Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) provides denser coverage for larger areas. Non-surgical options such as micropigmentation can also reduce visibility. At AZ Hair Restoration, Dr. Arthur Zacco has extensive experience transplanting hair into scars. Contact us today to book your free consultation and discuss the best way to conceal scars.

Does a hair transplant on scars really work?

Yes, hair transplants on scars are effective when performed by an experienced surgeon. While scar tissue has less blood flow, transplanted follicles can still thrive with proper technique. Growth may be slower than on healthy scalp skin, but most patients see permanent, natural results. At our hair restoration clinic in Raleigh, NC, Dr. Arthur Zacco combines advanced surgical skill with supportive therapies to improve outcomes. Look through our before and after hair transplant photos and schedule your free consultation today to learn how we can restore your scar coverage.