Hair Transplants for Scarring Alopecia: A Medical Perspective

Understanding Scarring Alopecia

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a group of rare disorders characterised by irreversible hair follicle damage and scarring. This condition leads to permanent hair loss, as the hair follicles are replaced with fibrotic tissue, preventing regrowth. Scarring alopecia can affect men and women of all ages and ethnicities, and it may present as patches of hair loss, diffuse thinning, or complete baldness in the affected areas. The primary cause of scarring alopecia involves inflammation that destroys hair follicles. This inflammation may occur beneath the skin’s surface, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making early diagnosis challenging. The inflammation may be triggered by autoimmune disorders, infections, or dermatological conditions such as lichen planopilaris (LPP), frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) (Harries et al., 2020). Early intervention is crucial to halt disease progression and minimise scarring. Medical treatments typically include anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and antimalarial drugs, which help manage the underlying inflammation but do not restore lost hair (Harries et al., 2020).

Hair Transplantation as a Solution

When scarring alopecia stabilises, usually following a period of medical management to control inflammation, hair transplantation can be considered a viable option. At My Hair UK, we specialise in Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), which is particularly effective for scarring alopecia. The FUE technique involves harvesting individual hair follicles from the donor area, typically the back of the scalp, and implanting them into the scarred, hairless regions. Unlike other methods, FUE is minimally invasive and allows for a quicker recovery with less visible scarring. The success of a hair transplant in scarring alopecia depends on several factors, including the extent and type of scarring, the condition of the scalp, and the stability of the alopecia. Studies suggest that graft survival rates can vary, with reported success rates ranging from 60% to 80% in stable scarring alopecia cases (Jimenez & Poblet, 2019). It is essential to assess the vascularity of the scar tissue and, in some cases, pre-treat the area with techniques like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy or microneedling to improve graft survival and promote healing.

Cost of Hair Transplant for Scarring Alopecia

The cost of a hair transplant in the UK  in 2025 for scarring alopecia depends on the number of grafts required, the extent of the scarring, and the specific needs of the patient. At My Hair UK, we offer transparent pricing based on graft numbers, with no hidden fees. The average cost per graft can vary, and during your consultation, we provide a detailed assessment to estimate the required number of grafts and associated costs. It is worth noting that treating scarring alopecia may require additional preparatory treatments, such as PRP therapy, which can also influence the overall cost.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for hair transplantation for scarring alopecia include those with stable disease, adequate donor hair, and realistic expectations. The stability of the condition is critical, as ongoing inflammation could jeopardise the success of the transplant. During your consultation at My Hair UK, our experienced doctors thoroughly assess your scalp and medical history to determine your suitability for the procedure.

Conclusion

Hair transplantation can significantly improve the appearance and confidence of those with scarring alopecia when medical management alone cannot restore hair. A thorough evaluation and tailored approach are essential for achieving optimal outcomes. For more detailed clinical insights into scarring alopecia and treatment options, refer to research by Harries et al. (2020) link to study and Jimenez & Poblet (2019) link to study.

References

• Harries, M. J., Paus, R., & Christiano, A. M. (2020). "Cicatricial alopecia: Pathogenesis and treatment." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, PubMed.
• Jimenez, F., & Poblet, E. (2019). "Hair transplantation in cicatricial alopecia: An overview." Dermatologic Clinics, PubMed.