Repair procedures now account for nearly 7% of all hair transplant cases — and the number is rising. This guide decodes the clinical signs of a bad hair transplant, explaining exactly what to look for, when each red flag becomes diagnosable, and what corrective treatment realistically costs. Written from the perspective of surgeons who perform repair procedures daily.
Dr. Christopher Pawlinga is an ABHRS-certified hair transplant surgeon with over 18 years of exclusive, full-time dedication to hair restoration. Holding one of fewer than 270 Diplomate credentials worldwide, he practices at Hair Doctor NYC on Madison Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This profile walks prospective patients through his verifiable credentials, training pathway, and clinical philosophy.
Hair transplant scars don’t have to be permanent reminders of a procedure gone wrong. Scalp micropigmentation for hair transplant scars offers a proven non-surgical solution—but FUT linear scars and FUE dot scars require entirely different protocols. Use our clinical Scar-Type Decision Matrix to understand your options and choose the right provider in 2026.