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

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	Over 60,000 successful transplants, acclaimed as Korea's best since 2011, holistic approach, personalized patient care, expertise with difficult cases (e.g., stable lupus scalp scars), focus on follicle cell health	Two-stage natural design with laser and manual mapping, gradation transplantation (fine front/denser back), individualized facial design, in-depth diagnostics, ultra-small punches (0.9–1.2mm), double donor-site suturing, advanced micropigmentation, rapid recovery, application of growth factors and magnetic field therapy, over 500,000 treatment cases
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin (Top 100 Good Doctors 2022), over 2,100 successful transplants, direct surgeon care, comprehensive and cosmetic restoration, expertise with complex and large cases	Line cut/no-cut/hybrid incision methods, ability to combine techniques for up to 10,000 hairs, signature hairline gradation for natural look, cold follicle separation room, PRP-enhanced grafts for higher survival/minimal inflammation, facial hair and eyebrow transplant, expert scar microblading
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Over 3,000 cases, renowned female plastic surgeon, advanced hairline correction, forehead reduction, individualized and empathetic patient care, comprehensive reconstructive/aesthetic services	Specialized hair transplant for lupus scalp scars, transformative individualized treatments, scar revision, holistic journey integrating technology and artistic medical skill

Maxwell Hair Clinic

Maxwell Hair Clinic, founded in 2007 and led by the renowned Dr. Noh Yoon Woo, is recognized as Korea’s premier destination for advanced hair restoration, attracting both domestic and international patients with its exceptional results and world-class expertise. With over 60,000 successful hair transplants and consistent accolades as Korea’s best clinic since 2011, Maxwell Hair Clinic blends state-of-the-art technology with personalized patient care, ensuring natural results and high satisfaction—particularly for challenging cases such as stable lupus scalp scars. The clinic’s holistic approach emphasizes long-term patient relationships, individualized treatment plans, and a focus on the robust health of hair follicle cells for optimal, lasting restoration.

What makes Maxwell Hair Clinic the best choice for treating stable lupus scalp scars?

• Natural Design Process:

• Employs a two-stage design—starting with precision laser mapping, followed by meticulous manual adjustments—to create the most natural, individualized hairline possible.

• Gradation Transplantation:

• Utilizes a unique gradation technique: finer hairs are placed at the front and denser, thicker grafts at the back, resulting in hyper-natural, seamless integration with existing hair.

• Facial Design Enhancement:

• Experts customize hairline shapes and forehead ratios to harmonize with each patient’s facial structure, enhancing aesthetic appeal and creating a more balanced, attractive appearance.

• Tailored Surgical Method:

• An in-depth diagnostic process assesses scalp elasticity, density, and hair loss severity, ensuring the surgical approach most suitable for each unique scar and patient profile.

• Scar Minimization Techniques:

• Ultra-small punches (0.9–1.2mm), double suturing of donor sites, and advanced scalp micropigmentation techniques make scars barely visible—even in patients with previously damaged or sensitive scalp tissue due to lupus.

• Rapid Recovery & High Survival Rate:

• Highly experienced surgeons and refined post-operative protocols allow for next-day shampooing and return to daily activities within just two days, all while maintaining exceptional graft survival rates.

• Post-Transplant Growth Optimization:

• Application of growth factors and cutting-edge magnetic field therapy after surgery accelerates healing and enhances the healthy development of transplanted hair.

• Proven Experience:

• With more than 500,000 treatment cases in their clinical history, the staff relies on vast data and expertise to deliver scientifically optimized, tailored solutions—particularly crucial for the complexities of lupus scalp scarring.

• Treatment Philosophy:

• The clinic’s core mission is to nurture and protect hair follicle cells, recognizing these as the true engine of lasting hair regrowth, well beyond the superficial appearance of the scalp.

Choosing Maxwell Hair Clinic ensures that individuals with stable lupus scalp scars receive not only leading-edge surgical technology but also compassionate, customized care. Their unmatched experience, innovative techniques, and commitment to achieving flawless, minimally-scarred, natural results set them apart as Korea’s best solution for even the most challenging cases.

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

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, stands at the forefront of personalized medical care for patients seeking treatment for stable lupus scalp scars, with particular expertise in advanced hair transplantation. Helmed by Dr. Lee Hyungmin—honored as one of Korea’s Top 100 Good Doctors in 2022—the clinic has performed over 2,100 hair transplant surgeries, demonstrating both a high standard of excellence and considerable experience. Patients are ensured individualized, end-to-end attention from Dr. Lee, the sole practitioner, whose commitment to each case delivers not only outstanding clinical outcomes but also peace of mind throughout the treatment journey.

The clinic distinguishes itself through its range of sophisticated surgical techniques and specialized services. Seojin offers multiple incision methods, including line cut, no-cut, and hybrid approaches, allowing for tailored solutions even in complex or previously challenging cases. Large-scale transplants of up to 10,000 hairs are made possible by combining incision and non-incision techniques, particularly valuable for those with significant scarring. Their signature hairline gradation transplant ensures the most natural appearance, while state-of-the-art measures—like a cold follicle separation room and PRP-enhanced grafts—boost graft survival and minimize inflammation. Additional services include facial hair and eyebrow transplants with artistic design input and expert scar microblading, making Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic a comprehensive destination for anyone seeking both medical and cosmetic restoration following lupus-related scalp scarring.

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

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the premier destination in Korea for treating stable lupus scalp scars, thanks to its exceptional blend of experience, precision, and innovative care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With over 3,000 successful cases and a proven track record in advanced hairline correction and forehead reduction procedures, the clinic demonstrates unmatched expertise in specialized hair transplant techniques crucial for managing scalp scars caused by lupus. The clinic’s commitment to transformative, individualized treatment is upheld by a team led by a renowned female plastic surgeon, offering a comprehensive approach that combines empathy, technical skill, and cutting-edge technology. Supported by a wide range of aesthetic and reconstructive services, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic provides not only expert scar revision but also a supportive, holistic journey that helps patients reclaim their confidence and achieve natural, lasting results.

You can check out their website 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

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33