Scar Pain and Hair Growth After Surgery: What to Expect

Fistula scar

The stoma has been healed for 10 months, but occasionally there is a sharp pain when walking due to friction.
Upon examining the scar with a mirror, it appears there may be hair growing inside.
What does this mean?

OO, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/05

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Post-surgical scar tingling is a normal phenomenon; however, if there are hairs within the surgical scar, it can be more problematic.
This usually occurs when hair follicles become trapped in the subcutaneous tissue during the suturing or healing process, potentially leading to folliculitis or scar tingling.
It is advisable to have your physician examine the area.
If there are indeed hairs present, they will need to be removed.
If no new hairs grow back, there should be no issue.
However, if they do grow back, the worst-case scenario may require reopening the wound for debridement.

Reply Date: 2016/05/05

More Info

Understanding scar pain and hair growth after surgery can be a complex topic, especially when considering the healing process of the skin and underlying tissues. After a surgical procedure, it is common to experience some discomfort or pain in the area of the scar, even months after the surgery. This can be attributed to several factors, including nerve regeneration, scar tissue formation, and the overall healing process.

When you mention that your scar has healed for 10 months but you still experience occasional sharp pain when walking or when the area is rubbed, this could indicate that the nerves in the area are still recovering. After surgery, nerves can be damaged or irritated, leading to sensations of pain, tingling, or discomfort. This phenomenon is often referred to as neuropathic pain, which can occur as the nerves regenerate and reconnect. In some cases, the pain may diminish over time as the nerves heal, but it can also persist for an extended period.

Regarding the presence of hair in the scar area, it is important to note that hair follicles can sometimes survive surgical procedures, depending on the extent of the surgery and the technique used. If you observe hair growth in the scar, this is generally a positive sign, as it indicates that the hair follicles were not completely destroyed during the procedure. However, the quality and thickness of the hair may differ from the surrounding hair, and it may take time for the hair to grow back to its original state.

In some cases, the hair that grows from a scar may be finer or less pigmented than normal hair. This can be due to the changes in the skin and underlying tissues caused by the surgery and the healing process. If the scar tissue is dense or fibrous, it may affect the hair's growth pattern and texture.
If you are concerned about the pain or the appearance of the scar, it is advisable to consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. They can assess the scar and provide recommendations for treatment options, which may include topical treatments, laser therapy, or other interventions aimed at improving the appearance of the scar and alleviating discomfort.

In summary, experiencing pain in a scar months after surgery can be a normal part of the healing process, particularly if nerve regeneration is involved. The presence of hair in the scar area is generally a good sign, indicating that some hair follicles have survived. However, if you have ongoing concerns about pain or hair growth, seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific situation and help you manage any discomfort effectively.

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