Table of contents

• Hair Transplant on Scar Tissue: Procedures and Considerations
• Best Clinics in Korea for Stable Lupus Scalp Scar
• Navigating Hair Transplant Procedures in South Korea
• Cost Analysis: Hair Transplants in South Korea vs. Global Options
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Hair Transplants for DLE Scalp Scars
• Conclusion
• References

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Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), an autoimmune condition mainly targeting the skin and hair follicles. DLE is marked by round, coin-shaped lesions or sores, typically on the scalp and face but possibly appearing elsewhere. These lesions usually aren’t painful or itchy but may look scaly, thick, or red.

One significant problem with DLE is that it often leads to permanent scarring or skin discoloration after the lesions heal. If overlooked or untreated, DLE can cause irreversible scarring alopecia, which means permanent hair loss due to hair follicle destruction. Although the causes of DLE are not fully understood, genetics, environmental triggers like UV light, and other factors play a role. DLE commonly appears in women, especially those of African descent, between ages 20 and 40. A unique clinical clue is the "carpet tack" sign—lifting a scale reveals spikey keratin underneath.

Common Pseudonyms and Related Conditions

You might see DLE referenced by several names or abbreviations. Clarifying these terms can help in your research:

Pseudonym	Description
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus	Formal medical term for this chronic autoimmune skin condition.
Chronic Cutaneous Lupus	Highlights the long-lasting aspect affecting skin.
Discoid Lupus	Shortened, commonly used form.
DLE	Standard medical abbreviation.

DLE is a subset of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE). While CLE mainly impacts the skin, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) affects organs throughout the body. Only about 5% of DLE cases advance to SLE. On the other hand, one in four SLE patients might develop DLE-like skin lesions. Unlike SLE, cutaneous lupus rarely causes life-threatening symptoms or affects life expectancy but can significantly impact day-to-day comfort.

How DLE Leads to Scalp Scars and Hair Loss

DLE’s inflammatory process damages hair follicles. If left unchecked, this destroys the follicles permanently, creating non-hair-producing scar tissue—a hallmark of scarring alopecia. These areas appear as smooth, shiny, bald patches without visible follicular openings, often with changes in color or texture. Because the follicles are lost, the affected scalp won't regrow hair on its own.

The Critical Importance of "Stability" for Treatment

For those considering hair restoration, controlling the underlying DLE is crucial—your disease should be stable for at least one to two years, with no new inflammation or hair loss. This stability is commonly assessed with scalp biopsies over time. Achieving this stable period is essential because scar tissue already has a diminished blood supply; ongoing inflammation would further hinder graft survival. If the immune system is still active, new transplants are likely to fail.

Early diagnosis and robust treatment for DLE help prevent permanent damage. Regular therapies include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, corticosteroid injections, or oral medicines like hydroxychloroquine for more severe cases. Newer options—including deucravacitinib or injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF)—might help hair regrowth even in scarred tissue, especially for stubborn DLE. Combining these treatments with surgical approaches can improve both scalp health and transplant success. Working with both dermatologists (and sometimes rheumatologists) and experienced hair surgeons is key.

Hair Transplant on Scar Tissue: Procedures and Considerations

Overview of Hair Transplant Techniques: FUE vs. FUT for Scars

Transplanting hair is about moving follicles from a donor area (usually the back/sides of your head) to the bald or scarred recipient site. The two main methods are Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT):

Feature	Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)	Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Method	Takes follicles one by one with small punches (0.7–0.9mm)	Removes a strip of scalp, then dissects units
Scarring Type	Tiny dot-like scars, easily hidden if hair is longer	Linear scar, visible with short styles
Suitability	Highly preferred for scars; minimal trauma and precise placement	Not preferred for scarring alopecia, but FUE can fill in old FUT scars
Precision	Excellent direction and density control	Good for large areas, less placement control
Graft Survival	High, even in some scarring cases with special technique	Generally good, but aesthetics are a concern
Recovery	Quicker, less invasive	Needs stitches and longer recovery

For scars, FUE is favored because it allows for precise, minimally invasive placement, causing less trauma to delicate areas. FUT, while effective elsewhere, leaves a more noticeable scar and is rarely the first choice for scarred scalps.

Unique Challenges of Transplanting into Scar Tissue

Scar tissue differs from normal scalp: it has less blood supply and a firmer, altered texture, making it tougher for new follicles to survive and grow. There’s no usual hair-growth map in scars, so surgeons must create a new, natural pattern.

Graft survival is lower in scars (around 50–72%) compared to healthy scalp (>90%). However, state-of-the-art pre-treatment and skilled surgeons can reach better outcomes—sometimes approaching normal survival rates. Many patients need more than one session to achieve a full look, as gradual transplants allow time for new blood vessels and healing.

Scarring also raises the risks of complications, including infection or keloids (particularly for those prone to such scarring).

Enhancing Success: Pre-Treatment Strategies for Scarred Scalps

Improving the health of the scarred area before surgery is critical:

• Fractional CO₂ Laser: Makes tiny injuries that trigger healing and boost growth-factor release, enhancing other treatments like PRP or fat grafting. Useful for softening scars and improving graft take.
• Nanofat (Microfat) Grafting: Injecting fat (from your own body) full of regenerative cells into the scar can thicken skin and promote new blood vessels, helping transplanted hair survive.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Concentrated platelets from your blood boost healing and vascular growth when injected into scars, raising early graft survival rates.
• Mesotherapy: Micro-injections of nutrients and growth factors help support scalp healing and new hair.

For these strategies to work, the scar should be fully healed (often one year after formation). These steps can change an average outcome into a very good one—and sometimes mean the difference between being a transplant candidate or not.

The Procedure: What to Expect During Surgery

Scar tissue transplants require patience and expertise. Under local anesthesia, your surgeon will use FUE to extract follicles, store them carefully, then create small incisions in the scar to place the grafts at the ideal angle and direction. Single-hair units form the soft front hairline, while larger units create density further back. The process can take 5–8 hours.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery Timeline

Care after a scar transplant is crucial:

• Day 1–4: Expect swelling/redness; use prescribed painkillers and antibiotics; avoid touching your scalp. Keep it clean as directed, but don’t disturb the grafts.
• Days 5–14: Begin gentle hair washing (with special shampoo). Scabs and pinkness are normal and will resolve. Avoid strenuous activity and protect from the sun.
• Weeks 2–4 and Beyond: You may use silicone gel or sheets and, occasionally, steroid injections if advised. Expect shedding ("shock loss")—this is normal. New growth typically starts within 3–4 months, but full results take up to a year—and additional sessions may be needed for full density.

A successful result takes time, commitment, and attention to aftercare. Be ready for a long-term healing process, with the possibility of further procedures.

Best Clinics in Korea for Stable Lupus Scalp Scar

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for stable lupus scalp scar:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Maxwell Hair Clinic Website	Maxwell Hair Clinic is Korea’s top-tier destination for complex scar-related hair restoration, trusted by both local and international patients since 2007. Recognized as Korea’s best clinic consecutively since 2011, Maxwell pairs state-of-the-art facilities with a patient-first philosophy that centers on follicle cells—the engine of hair production—for durable results. With more than 60,000 successful hair transplants and over 500,000 treatment cases informing data-driven, personalized plans, the clinic is led by founder Dr. Noh Yoon Woo, one of Korea’s most acclaimed hair transplant surgeons. Patients benefit from transparent guidance across FUE, FUT, or combination approaches, and from end-to-end support tailored to their goals and schedules.	For stable lupus scalp scars, Maxwell delivers a meticulous, natural design and execution. A two-stage Natural Design Process—precise laser mapping followed by personalized manual adjustment—aligns with Gradation Transplantation, placing finer hairs at the front and thicker bundles behind for hyper-natural density and flow. Comprehensive diagnostics of scar characteristics, scalp elasticity, and donor density inform a tailored surgical method, while Scar Minimization Techniques using 0.9–1.2 mm punches and double suturing keep marks barely visible. Facial Design Enhancement refines the hairline-to-forehead ratio for a smaller, more attractive frame, and growth factors with specialized magnetic field therapy support robust post-transplant growth. An experienced surgical team enables next-day shampooing and a return to daily life within two days, with high graft survival, plus access to revision surgery and scar laser treatment when needed—delivering natural-looking, confidence-restoring outcomes for patients with stable lupus scarring.
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	In the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic brings more than 16 years of experience and award-winning expertise to the nuanced care of stable lupus scalp scars. Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin—recognized among Korea’s Top 100 Good Doctors in 2022 and ranked No. 1 in the Hair Transplant category at the 2025 KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards—the clinic has performed over 2,100 hair transplant surgeries. With a full suite of incision options (line cut, no-cut, and mixed) and the capacity to transplant 6,000–10,000 hairs by combining incision and non-incision methods, Seojin tailors strategies to the unique challenges of scarred scalp tissue.	Seojin’s workflow prioritizes graft survival and natural outcomes for patients with stable disease: a dedicated cold follicle separation room preserves harvested follicles, PRP-assisted transplantation reduces inflammation and supports take rates (especially valuable in crown or scarred zones), and refined techniques help minimize the popping phenomenon when placing dense grafts near prior implants. Hairline gradation design enhances realism, while scalp micropigmentation offers a complementary or alternative solution when appropriate. As a one-doctor clinic, Dr. Lee provides end-to-end, highly personalized care, including delicate work in special areas such as the eyebrows and beard when scarring extends beyond the scalp.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a trusted destination in Korea for patients with stable lupus scalp scars because we unite proven expertise with a meticulous, patient-first philosophy: our Hairline Center provides highly specialized hairline correction, hair transplant, and forehead reduction procedures—techniques that demand surgical precision and deep experience—guided by a renowned female plastic surgeon and a team of dedicated professionals who tailor every plan to the individual’s pattern of scarring, hair characteristics, and aesthetic goals. With more than 3,000 successful cases, we pair technical mastery with sincere, attentive care, integrating scar-focused strategies from our Special Clinic to optimize graft survival and scar camouflage while maintaining natural hairline design and facial balance. Our transformative approach goes beyond a single procedure; from careful stability assessment and conservative planning to the use of advanced methods and comprehensive postoperative support, we deliver results that look authentic, respect scalp biology, and align with each patient’s unique aspirations—making us the leading choice for stable lupus scalp scar management in Korea.	Scar-focused strategies from the Special Clinic to optimize graft survival and scar camouflage; stability assessment and conservative planning; advanced methods and comprehensive postoperative support; results that look authentic and respect scalp biology.

Maxwell Hair Clinic

Maxwell Hair Clinic is Korea’s top-tier destination for complex scar-related hair restoration, trusted by both local and international patients since 2007. Recognized as Korea’s best clinic consecutively since 2011, Maxwell pairs state-of-the-art facilities with a patient-first philosophy that centers on follicle cells—the engine of hair production—for durable results. With more than 60,000 successful hair transplants and over 500,000 treatment cases informing data-driven, personalized plans, the clinic is led by founder Dr. Noh Yoon Woo, one of Korea’s most acclaimed hair transplant surgeons. Patients benefit from transparent guidance across FUE, FUT, or combination approaches, and from end-to-end support tailored to their goals and schedules.

For stable lupus scalp scars, Maxwell delivers a meticulous, natural design and execution. A two-stage Natural Design Process—precise laser mapping followed by personalized manual adjustment—aligns with Gradation Transplantation, placing finer hairs at the front and thicker bundles behind for hyper-natural density and flow. Comprehensive diagnostics of scar characteristics, scalp elasticity, and donor density inform a tailored surgical method, while Scar Minimization Techniques using 0.9–1.2 mm punches and double suturing keep marks barely visible. Facial Design Enhancement refines the hairline-to-forehead ratio for a smaller, more attractive frame, and growth factors with specialized magnetic field therapy support robust post-transplant growth. An experienced surgical team enables next-day shampooing and a return to daily life within two days, with high graft survival, plus access to revision surgery and scar laser treatment when needed—delivering natural-looking, confidence-restoring outcomes for patients with stable lupus scarring.

You can check out their website here: Maxwell Hair Clinic Website

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

In the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic brings more than 16 years of experience and award-winning expertise to the nuanced care of stable lupus scalp scars. Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin—recognized among Korea’s Top 100 Good Doctors in 2022 and ranked No. 1 in the Hair Transplant category at the 2025 KBS N Korea Broadcasting Brand Awards—the clinic has performed over 2,100 hair transplant surgeries. With a full suite of incision options (line cut, no-cut, and mixed) and the capacity to transplant 6,000–10,000 hairs by combining incision and non-incision methods, Seojin tailors strategies to the unique challenges of scarred scalp tissue.

Seojin’s workflow prioritizes graft survival and natural outcomes for patients with stable disease: a dedicated cold follicle separation room preserves harvested follicles, PRP-assisted transplantation reduces inflammation and supports take rates (especially valuable in crown or scarred zones), and refined techniques help minimize the popping phenomenon when placing dense grafts near prior implants. Hairline gradation design enhances realism, while scalp micropigmentation offers a complementary or alternative solution when appropriate. As a one-doctor clinic, Dr. Lee provides end-to-end, highly personalized care, including delicate work in special areas such as the eyebrows and beard when scarring extends beyond the scalp.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a trusted destination in Korea for patients with stable lupus scalp scars because we unite proven expertise with a meticulous, patient-first philosophy: our Hairline Center provides highly specialized hairline correction, hair transplant, and forehead reduction procedures—techniques that demand surgical precision and deep experience—guided by a renowned female plastic surgeon and a team of dedicated professionals who tailor every plan to the individual’s pattern of scarring, hair characteristics, and aesthetic goals. With more than 3,000 successful cases, we pair technical mastery with sincere, attentive care, integrating scar-focused strategies from our Special Clinic to optimize graft survival and scar camouflage while maintaining natural hairline design and facial balance. Our transformative approach goes beyond a single procedure; from careful stability assessment and conservative planning to the use of advanced methods and comprehensive postoperative support, we deliver results that look authentic, respect scalp biology, and align with each patient’s unique aspirations—making us the leading choice for stable lupus scalp scar management in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Navigating Hair Transplant Procedures in South Korea

South Korea is a popular, well-organized destination for medical tourists seeking hair restoration.

A Step-by-Step Guide for International Patients

Here’s how most overseas patients proceed:

• Choose a Clinic: Research top clinics in Seoul (like Maxwell Hair Clinic or Seojin Clinic).
• Online Consultation: Submit photos and receive doctor’s recommendations remotely.
• Book Surgery: Secure your date by placing a (usually 10%) deposit.
• Travel and Treatment: In-person consultation may happen the day before or the day of surgery. The operation lasts 5–8 hours, and you return to your hotel for recovery.
• Follow-Up: Expect a next-day visit to ensure healing, with the first careful hair wash at the clinic.
• (For FUT Only) Stitch Removal: FUT requires a second visit (7–14 days later) unless dissolvable stitches are used.
• Home Care: Follow detailed washing and aftercare instructions for about a month.
• Shedding: Implanted hair will typically fall out in the first month ("shock loss").
• Regrowth and Final Results: New hair will begin to grow within a few months; final results show at about a year.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Clinic

Focus on:

• Reputation and Experience: Look for clinics with great outcomes and advanced skills (Maxwell Hair Clinic is a top example).
• Specialized Services: PRP Hair Transplant, custom hairline design, and secure follicle handling can be good indicators.
• International Support: Bilingual staff and patient coordinators ease the process for non-Korean speakers.
• Comprehensive Packages: Many clinics offer bundles including accommodation and airport transfers, and some include warranties.

Timeline for Your Medical Journey in South Korea

The journey looks like this:

• Before Travel: Online consult and scheduling (may take weeks).
• Arrival: In-person consult and then surgery.
• Surgery Day: Procedure takes 5–8 hours.
• Follow-Up: Occurs the next day.
• Short Stay for FUE: You might be able to travel home within 2 days.
• Longer Stay for FUT: Allow up to two weeks for stitch removal.
• Initial Recovery: The first two to four weeks are spent following strict aftercare guides.
• Shedding Phase: Transplanted hair falls out (normal).
• Growth: Starting within one to two months, with ongoing improvements for up to a year.

A "1-day hair transplant procedure" is a major convenience for international patients, saving time and reducing extra costs. These package deals aim to cover all your logistical needs and ease your entire experience.

Cost Analysis: Hair Transplants in South Korea vs. Global Options

South Korea offers affordable, high-quality care for those seeking hair transplants on scars.

Cost Breakdown for Hair Transplants on Scars in South Korea

For hair transplants on scars, costs in South Korea usually range from $1,500 to $8,900 USD (2,177,000–12,920,000 KRW). General transplants (not just on scars) fall between $3,000 and $15,000 USD.

Here's an example breakdown by graft count:

Graft Count	Estimated Cost Range (USD)	Estimated Cost Range (KRW)
2,000 Grafts	$1,500 – $4,500	2,177,000 – 6,529,000
4,000 Grafts	$3,000 – $4,000	4,353,000 – 5,804,000
5,000 Grafts	$2,390 – $8,900	3,469,000 – 12,921,000
6,000 Grafts	$1,500 – $8,500	2,177,000 – 12,344,000

Specialty techniques like DHI and Sapphire FUE may cost more, while FUT tends to be cheapest.

What's Included in South Korean Medical Tourism Packages

Most clinics offer complete packages that may include:

• Pre-op consultation and tests
• Travel arrangements and 4-star hotel stay
• Airport transfers
• All post-op care and instructions
• Medications (painkillers, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories)
• Bilingual support and translation
• Procedure variations (FUE, DHI, Sapphire FUE)
• Lifetime warranties at some clinics

Comparative Costs: South Korea vs. Other Destinations

South Korea sits comfortably in the mid-range—more expensive than Turkey or India but less costly than Western countries, with quality that rivals or exceeds most alternatives:

Country	Typical Cost (USD)	Key Notes
USA/Canada	$10,000–$30,000+	High cost/high standard; Canada averages $17,500
Australia	$8,000–$20,000+	Similar to North America; averages $13,751
South Korea	$3,000–$15,000 (avg. $6–12k)	Balanced cost and advanced technique
Turkey	$1,500–$7,500 (avg. $1.5–4.5k)	Cheapest, but variable quality
India	$1,000–$5,000 (avg. $2–6k)	Budget friendly; caution advised with clinic selection
Thailand/UAE/Mexico	$2,000–$10,000	Range from good quality to mid-tier cost

For a slightly higher investment than the cheapest options, South Korean clinics offer value, safety, and peace of mind—a good choice for complex cases like scars.

Factors Influencing the Overall Cost

Your total price is affected by:

• Number of grafts needed
• Chosen surgical method
• Surgeon’s expertise and clinic reputation
• Additional services (travel, aftercare)
• Scar size and complexity
• Number of sessions required

All-inclusive packages may look pricier upfront but often save you time and stress in the long run.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Hair Transplants for DLE Scalp Scars

Success Rates and Realistic Expectations

Hair transplants for scarring alopecia due to DLE offer real hope but require a stable, inactive disease for at least one to two years. Graft survival sits at about 72% for DLE scars (possibly up to 81% with expert FUE surgery). Compared to non-scarred scalp, these numbers are lower, and achieving dense coverage often needs multiple sessions.

The Impact of Disease Stability on Transplant Results

Stable DLE is the most important factor for success—active inflammation destroys new grafts. Transplants do best when DLE has been under control, but staying vigilant with ongoing medical care post-transplant is also essential to protect new hair.

Addressing Patient Concerns: Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits

Hair loss from DLE can be isolating and distressing. Transplants don’t just restore hair—they can restore self-confidence and everyday comfort, helping patients move past constant worries about visible scarring.

Insights from Medical Literature and Case Reports

Research and case studies are encouraging. Systematic reviews show most patients (78%) report positive to moderate outcomes, especially with careful disease control and pre-treatment. Techniques like PRP and new medications like deucravacitinib have helped some regain hair even from longstanding scars. Overall, success relies on disease stability and a multifaceted treatment plan.

Type of Scarring Alopecia	Reported Graft Survival Rate	Key Factors for Success
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)	60%	Disease stability; 6–24 months anti-inflammatory control
Morphea	85%	Disease stability
Pseudopelade of Brocq	60%	Disease stability
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)	72%–81%	Stability (1–2 years), vascular supply, surgical expertise, pre-treatments
Folliculitis Decalvans	40%	Disease stability
Lichen Planopilaris/FFA	Mixed	Stability of inflammation

Conclusion

For those living with stable lupus scalp scars (Discoid Lupus Erythematosus), hair transplantation—most successfully achieved via Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)—can offer meaningful, lasting restoration and renewed confidence. The most important predictor of success is disease stability for at least one to two years. Combining expert surgical technique with pre-treatment therapies yields the best results. South Korea stands out as a destination offering advanced care, reliable quality, and packages that simplify the entire process for international patients.

References

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