Distinguishing Normal Redness and Pimples from an Infection

[mrcarrol]

Hi,

 

I had my first HT in January. My surgeon told me that I would need to watch for pimples that appear in the recipient area in the following months. He told me to pop pimples that form whiteheads as these can lead to infection. Unfortunately the redness from the surgery took a few months to subside, so I found it hard to look for and detect any pimples. Now that it has subsided, I actually find it more difficult with the native hair having grown back in. I check daily, but usually just see a lot of red blotchy patches and some red pimples, which I was told was a normal part of the process as the new hair starts to grow in. I guess I'm just really concerned with being able to distinguish between normal redness and irritation and a possible infection like folliculitis. I've been to a couple of walk-in doctors, with one saying it could be infected and the other saying it is normal. Does anyone have any advice on this or a similar experience? Thanks

[gillenator]

mrcarrol,

 

I opened your photo into a much larger frame and do not see any signs of an infection. Everything looks pretty normal...just a little lingering redness.

 

Usually an infection is manifested with white tipped bumps and some inflammation.

 

If you are not near your surgeon, any good dermatologist should be able to look at the area to physically exam your scalp.

 

Congrats on your recent procedure...

[mrcarrol]

Thanks for the reply. It gives me a lot of peace of mind.

[AlexieJ]

I also agree. Just monitor it but everything looks perfectly fine so nothing to worry about not unless you find it very uncomfortable.

[Dr Tejinder Bhatti]

Mr. mrcarrol,

 

If you were to have an infection you would not need to look very hard to find the evidence. The evidence would manifest in an obvious manner not to mention the region may be sensitive to touch. I too see no evidence of infection.