Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Blog Archives - Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD

7 Years of Care: Robert Peeters’ Scalp Treatment Journey for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (Part 1)

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:18:34 +0000

Dr. Sanusi Umar introduced one of his longtime patients, Robert Peeters. Robert once had a very severe condition of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae, and has been in Dr. U’s care for 7 years now. What initially appears to be an introductory greeting for a new podcast series is actually a demonstration of the clinic’s approach to patient care: each patient is treated as part of the clinic’s “family.”

The Baldcast serves as an avenue for showcasing the experiences of actual patients with complex scalp and hair issues. Additionally, it demonstrates the value of providing patients with educating them on their condition and giving them hope through advanced treatments available at the clinic.

Dr. Sanusi Umar introduces one of his long-time patients and now a friend, Robert, who has a severe case of acne keloidalis nuchae

The Journey of Care and Commitment

Seven years of care from Dr. Umar for Robert Peeters represents the type of long term physician-patient relationships that lead to positive and transformative changes in a person’s health and self-confidence.

Dr. Umar also introduces Robert’s mother, who has provided continuous emotional support during all seven years of the treatment process, further highlighting the importance of involving family members in the overall treatment plan for successful patient care.

Dr. Umar, the Bumpinator, mentions that he has been taking care of Robert’s condition for over seven years.

How Specialized Hair Restoration Can Evolve into Friendship

The relationship between Dr. Umar and Robert illustrate how a long term doctor-patient relationship built on trust and personalized treatment for conditions like hairline bumps can evolve into a long-lasting and meaningful friendship.

Through Robert’s story, the podcast continues to emphasize the commitment of the clinic to provide each patient with personalized and comprehensive care, utilizing the expertise of its doctors; and providing each patient with the long term support necessary to achieve optimal results from treatment.

The Bumpinator also introduced Robert’s mom, who has also been with him all throughout his journey to healing.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Robert’s Story

Watch the first chapter of Robert’s transformation here:

27 Years With AKN | Before the Storm Part 1
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Take the Next Step

If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD) or Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch Robert’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

Disclaimer:
This story reflects one patient’s personal experience and treatment by Dr. Sanusi Umar. Individual results vary. Always consult a qualified physician for personalized advice.

The post 7 Years of Care: Robert Peeters’ Scalp Treatment Journey for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (Part 1) appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Scars Do Not Define: An Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Patient Success Story

Nicole Vergara — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:10:54 +0000

“This is me. No more secrets. No more shame.”

Diseases such as AKN are very often misunderstood. They may appear as hairline bumps or Barber’s Bumps. However, the underlying problem is chronic inflammation which will ultimately create scarring and long-lasting changes to the skin.

For Anwar, the painful bumps that have consistently returned were only half of his battle. He had to fight emotionally to build walls, avoid attention, and hide his true self.

However, when the disease was finally understood and treated, Anwar was able to heal. Healing came through a focus on the biology of the condition versus its surface appearance. This acne kelo, what seemed permanent started to change.

After Anwar’s recovery, he emphasized that he’s no longer feeling the shame, and he no longer feels like he needs to hide himself from the world anymore.

More Than Scars: Understanding The Journey

For years, Anwar relied on hats and other ways to hide the visible effects of his condition. Like many patients living with acne keloidalis nuchae, he became increasingly aware of how his appearance affected his confidence and interactions with others.

Over time, those feelings led him to build emotional walls as well. Hiding became more than a physical habit. It became a way of protecting himself from unwanted attention, questions, and assumptions.

Looking back, Anwar recognizes how much energy was spent trying to conceal a condition that had become a major part of his daily life.

Today, that chapter is behind him.

Anwar mentions how important it is to believe that healing beyond experiencing scalp issues for years – is still possible

Rewriting The Story: An Acne Keloidalis Patient Story of Success

Now, Anwar views the world differently than before.

His scars are no longer the only chapter in his story; they are now only one chapter. That change in perspective is almost as great of a change as the physical change that occurred.

If you are looking for a long-term solution to hairline bumps, or if you are seeking information about treatment options for Acne Keloidalis, Anwar’s message is simple: healing is possible. There may be time involved. There may be challenges and there may be setbacks. But progress is possible with the right direction and support.

“Scars may shape us, but they do not define us.”

Anwar’s experience reminds each of us that we all deserve the chance to move forward — not only with clear skin, but also with new confidence and a rewritten version of ourselves.

Alt text: Anwars is a testimony that even after years of battling with AKN, there is still a chance to rewrite the whole story of your life, and it begins when you believe that long-term healing is attainable.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Anwar’s Story

Watch Anwar’s transformation update here:

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch Anwar’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Scars Do Not Define: An Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Patient Success Story appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Anwar’s Journey Continues – A New Path Without Razor Bumps

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 01:42:07 +0000

This is another moment of great significance in Anwar’s life. Anwar has lived with what most would call “bumps on the back of the head” (a medical condition called acne keloidalis nuchae), but now he is dealing with an entirely new experience: showing the world as he wants it.

With confidence, and yet some degree of hesitation, Anwar enters the room. He was energized from traveling, and the air around him is calming; however, this moment has greater importance than ever before.

Anwar’s previous condition having a huge lump of razor bump on his head before having the consultation and surgery done by Dr. Umar.

How He Has Shown Up To the World for Years

For many years, what appeared to others as razor bumps on the head or ingrown hair bumps have significantly influenced how Anwar shows himself to the world. That is changing.

The changes in Anwar’s body are evident during the consultation. When comparing the pre-consultation photographs to those taken after the consultation with Dr. Sanusi Umar, the change is much deeper than simply what we see on the surface.

Acne keloidalis nuchae has a common misdiagnosis in the beginning stages of the disease. Many people believe that the bumps appearing on their scalp represent barber bumps or minor irritations.

Dr. Sanusi Umar, the Bumpinator, shows the before and after surgery photos of Anwar.

A Moment to Show the World

Then comes the question: “Are you prepared to show the world?”

That is a very significant moment. Individuals who previously experienced recurring hairline bumps or bumps that continue to come back may find it difficult to be seen. However, Anwar states he is somewhat nervous but ready.

As the moment becomes more intense, Anwar removes the hat, but the final reveal is left until Part 2.

To patients looking for a long-term solution for hairline bumps, or to those who are seeking treatment options for acne keloidalis, this moment represents more than a physical change. This moment is about regaining confidence, and the option to decide when and how to be seen.

Dr. U asks Anwar if he’s now ready to show the entire world the huge reveal of the new appearance of his scalp.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Anwar’s Story

Watch Anwar’s transformation update here:

The Quiet Confidence After Chronic Folliculitis of the Nape and Chronic Neutrophilic Folliculitis
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Take the Next Step

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Anwar’s Journey Continues – A New Path Without Razor Bumps appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Anwar’s Transformation: The Reveal

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:28:00 +0000

It is time. Years of going through bumps on the back of the head and persistent acne keloidalis nuchae have finally come to an end. Anwar removed his hat and showed the world what he had been hiding. Dr. Sanusi Umar confirmed that it had worked; Anwar no longer had AKN, but there were some minor hypertrophic scarring that would resolve as time went by.

This was more than just a physical transformation for Anwar; it was a mental one. What was once a source of Anwar’s feelings of being exposed or embarrassed has now turned into a story about how resilient he is and how well he managed his medical condition.

Anwar finally revealed his healed scalp and Dr. Sanusi Umar happily stated that the AKN is finally gone.

Managing Folliculitis Keloidalis Nuchae

Anwar’s experience illustrates the reality of acne keloidalis nuchae – an ongoing inflammatory process, which may look like bumps caused by razors, bumps at the hair line, or ingrown hair bumps. For many of these patients, they have tried every remedy imaginable to manage their bumps – home remedies, barbershop fixes, over-the-counter products, etc., without much success.

To effectively treat AKN, professional assistance is required. As Anwar states, “seeing a medical professional is crucial.” Traveling, cost, scheduling issues, etc. should not deter individuals from seeing a doctor. The consistency of seeking treatment, the direction from a medical professional and the determination to seek help will be what will allow you to manage your constant painful bumps and achieve a long term solution.

Anwar states that people who have the same condition as his should never stop looking for medical professionals that can help them with a long term solution.

Emotional Impact of Treatment and Recovery

While Anwar’s experience has brought about significant improvements physically, emotionally, Anwar shares that the psychological benefit is equally impressive. To those who have experienced a condition such as Anwar, Anwar recommends that you continually search for answers and solutions. Trust that qualified professionals can assist you. And do not let small barriers hinder you from moving forward.

Dr. Umar also concurs with Anwar stating the changes Anwar has undergone both visually and psychologically, and the positive effects of his increased confidence. What was once a cause for Anwar’s discomfort, embarrassment and anxiety, is now a testament to the effectiveness of the treatment for Anwar’s acne keloidalis nuchae and Anwar’s ability to persevere.

Anwar mentions how important it is to push yourself to find solutions for scalp conditions. Setbacks are normal, however, being determined is the key for long term healing.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Anwar’s Story

Watch Anwar’s transformation update here:

Take the Next Step

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Anwar’s Transformation: The Reveal appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Why Anwar No Longer “Stands Out” Due To Acne Keloidalis Nuchae

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:13:28 +0000

In this chapter update, Anwar talks about what is perhaps most significant for him, but simple. He has been living with the consequences of chronic inflammation of the scalp, and it has made him feel seen in the worst of ways. What many people would describe as bumps on the back of the head or razor bumps on the head, have evolved into Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) – a chronic inflammatory process of the scalp and hairline.

Prior to treatment, the bumps were not only physical; they also drew attention. Whether viewed as ingrown hair bumps, or even as keloids on the scalp, Anwar felt like he was always being watched. Today, Anwar tells us about a very different reality – far fewer eyes upon him, much less attention, and the freedom to live his life as he chooses without having to define himself by his appearance.

Anwar states that after his surgery and recovery, he had noticed that people no longer look at him indifferently because of his appearance unlike when he had the big acne keloidalis nuchae bumps on the scalp.

Understanding the Condition Behind the Change

What Anwar experienced is common in patients dealing with acne keloidalis nuchae, often misdiagnosed early on. Many people initially believe they are dealing with simple barber’s bumps or irritation from haircuts. However, the underlying issue is deeper rooted in chronic inflammation and follicular injury.

Over time, this inflammation can lead to painful bumps, scarring changes, and areas that feel like they won’t heal. For patients like Anwar, the condition becomes more than cosmetic. It affects confidence, daily interactions, and how they show up in the world.

Dr. Sanusi Umar, the Bumpinator, has successfully removed the diseased painful bumps on Anwar’s scalp.

A Shift in Confidence and Daily Life

Anwar’s words highlight a key outcome that goes beyond medical treatment: anonymity. The ability to not “stand out” anymore is something many patients deeply value. When visible symptoms like hairline bumps or bumps that keep coming back are reduced, the mental burden often lifts as well.

For those searching for a long term solution for hairline bumps or exploring treatment for acne keloidalis, Anwar’s story reinforces an important point, which is that real change is possible when the condition is properly understood and managed.

This chapter isn’t just an update. It’s a reminder that treating chronic scalp conditions isn’t only about the skin—it’s about restoring how someone feels in their own presence every day.

After his recovery, Anwar is now at ease that he’s no longer being seen as different by the people around him.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Anwar’s Story

Watch Anwar’s transformation update here:

A Life Reclaimed from Folliculitis Keloidalis Nuchae and Nodulocystic Scalp Disease
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Take the Next Step

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Why Anwar No Longer “Stands Out” Due To Acne Keloidalis Nuchae appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Chronic Folliculitis of the Nape: The First Trigger

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:39:45 +0000

The first inflammatory condition that was likely present in John’s case was chronic folliculitis of the nape (another term for AKN), an inflammatory disease with scarring and inflammation of the hair follicles in the back of the scalp and neck area. It is characterized by recurring bumps or thickening of the skin on the back of the head

When there is chronic inflammation from this condition, it will lead to the release of various signaling molecules including cytokines and growth factors into the tissues around the affected follicle. Cytokines and growth factors are important parts of the body’s immune response and can affect nearby tissue.

Chronic folliculitis of the nape or AKN, was the first to appear on John’s scalp before other scalp conditions grew.

A Single Disease Process for Other Scalp Disorders

According to Dr. Umar, the same biological processes that produce chronic folliculitis of the nape are likely to create the same biological processes that produce dissecting cellulitis, a chronic disease of the scalp that creates deep nodules, swelling and potentially drainage under the skin.

Additionally, Dr. Umar states that the same biological processes that produce chronic folliculitis of the nape are also responsible for cutis verticis gyrata (CVG), a disease process where the scalp develops folds similar to the ridges of a mountain range

Once the inflammatory cascade begins, the environment of the scalp is much more likely to generate additional diseases.

Dr. U explains that AKN was the first thing to appear on John’s head, and it has the same factors that drive dissecting cellulitis from growing too.

Turning Off the Source of Inflammation

Dr. Umar states that the focus of the treatment plan is to eliminate the initial source of inflammation that is creating the growth factors and cytokines. Once the original source of inflammation has been eliminated, the number of biologic signals that promote the development of other diseases such as dissecting cellulitis and CVG should be decreased.

Once the diseased follicles that are producing the factors and cytokines are removed, the engine that continues to fuel the inflammatory cycle will also be eliminated.

By removing the source of growth factors and cytokines Dr. Umar was able to reduce the likelihood of additional diseases developing.

Dr. Umar, the Bumpinator, mentions that he cut off the supply of cytokines to prevent the recurrence of the diseases.

Watch John’s Story

Watch the thirteenth chapter of John’s transformation here:

When Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Meets Dissecting Cellulitis | Part 2
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Take the Next Step

If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch John’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Chronic Folliculitis of the Nape: The First Trigger appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Severe Folliculitis Keloidalis Nuchae and CVG: Robert’s Life Before and After Treatment

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 20:19:20 +0000

Dr. Sanusi Umar discusses in detail the unique and complicated combination of diseases that Robert had developed. Robert had the worst-case scenario of Folliculitis Keloidalis Nuchae (another term for AKN) in addition to developing Cutis Verticis Gyrata (CVG).

CVG causes the scalp to develop deep grooves and ridges. It was determined by specialists that the long-term inflammation of AKN caused the onset of CVG.

It shows that if left untreated or advanced, scalp disorders can develop into more serious structural disorders with time.

A photo of Robert’s condition, having severe hairline bumps and folds on his scalp.

The Psychological And Emotional Toll Of Having Chronic Scalp Disease

Robert has described years of physical pain and emotional distress before receiving the care from a specialist. Not just the outward signs, he also experienced depression, anxiety, fear, and frustration, which made him feel alone when doctors would tell him that they were unable to assist him.

Notably, many people who suffer from severe AKN and CVG experience an overwhelming sense of loss of self-worth; in addition to their mental health, it negatively impacts their overall quality of life.

Robert explains the emotional toll that his condition has brought him, and he felt hopeless as if he would never heal before he met Dr. U, the Bumpinator.

From Hopelessness To Fighting For Healing

Robert admitted that he has given up many times during his search for answers, but he never stopped looking. At age 43, he looks back at his experiences with realism and fortitude, and knows that every day has both its good and bad aspects.

He is a great example of what can be achieved through finding the correct medical professionals and the latest treatments available for the bumps on his head. Even though his experiences were extremely challenging, he was able to transition from hopelessness to hope for healing.

Robert mentions that despite his scalp condition, he learned how to navigate through life and never give up on looking for a cure.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch Robert’s Story

Watch the second chapter of Robert’s transformation here:

Robert’s Emotional Battle Living With Scalp Keloids | Before the Storm Part 2
For years, Robert carried emotions he rarely spoke about. Depression. Anxiety. Fear. Frustration. Living with scalp keloids, also known as Acne Keloidalis Nuchae or folliculitis keloidalis nuchae, affected far more than his physical appearance. It shaped his mindset, his confidence, and the way he navigated everyday life.

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch Robert’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

Disclaimer:
This story reflects one patient’s personal experience and treatment by Dr. Sanusi Umar. Individual results vary. Always consult a qualified physician for personalized advice.

The post Severe Folliculitis Keloidalis Nuchae and CVG: Robert’s Life Before and After Treatment appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Impact from Scalp Keloids on the Life of John

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:11:07 +0000

Dr. Sanusi Umar, in this thought-provoking podcast segment, offers an inside look at what John experienced after he underwent surgery to have the scalp keloids removed from the back of his head.

John discussed the way in which keloids due to AKN limited his lifestyle before undergoing treatment. While most people might view the scarring on the back of someone’s head as a blemish, they would be unaware of the limitations that the individual experiences in terms of their daily routine and their self-esteem.

“You don’t want to do nothing,” John said. “It just limits your life.”

These are sentiments that many individuals who suffer from chronic scalp conditions will relate to. Beyond physical limitations, these conditions can create limitations emotionally as well.

John states that because of his scalp keloids, he felt like his life opportunities were hindered and it made him feel like he doesn’t want to do anything with his life.

Moments After Surgery

Following surgery, Dr. Umar checked in with John to see how he was doing. Many patients after surgery report some level of numbness while the anesthesia wears off.

Dr. Umar stated that a large portion of the diseased tissue had been removed so that he could completely treat the condition. John expressed curiosity about whether the diseased tissue had been weighed. Dr. Umar didn’t answer right then; instead he suggested showing John.

“Are you ready for this?” Dr. Umar asked.

Both John and his sister Cheyenne answered honestly, “No.”

This moment displays the combination of anxiety, relief and uncertainty that accompanies a serious medical procedure.

Dr. Sanusi Umar showed John and Cheyenne the removed diseased chunk of John’s scalp.

Beyond the Medical Procedure—Turning Point

As the episode progresses toward the final reveal, it is apparent that this is more than just a story about removing scalp keloids from John’s head. To John, this is a turning point.

John talked about the care he has received and emphasized the value of finding a doctor who takes the time to listen and make a positive difference.

“Every single thing he does is to help people and to change people’s lives,” John said. “It’s amazing to find a doctor who truly cares for his patients this much.”

The episode ends with a preview of what’s coming next—a powerful transformation that will alter not only John’s appearance but his self-confidence and overall perspective.

John, with all gratitude to the Bumpinator, says that he has never seen a doctor like him. Dr. Umar has been helping and changing people’s lives.

For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.

Watch John’s Story

Watch the fourteenth chapter of John’s transformation here:

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD) or Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch John’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.

At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.

The post Impact from Scalp Keloids on the Life of John appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

The Road Back: John Picone’s Fight for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:05:13 +0000

John Picone’s journey began after years of living with a painful scalp condition called acne keloidalis nuchae that affected nearly every part of his life. What started as bumps on the back of the head gradually evolved into severe inflammation, limiting what he could do physically and damaging his confidence.

A traumatic car accident in the past had already left him struggling emotionally, and the worsening scalp issues only deepened that challenge. Because John’s case involved complex scalp pathology—including acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN), folliculitis decalvans (FD), and cutis verticis gyrata (CVG), his treatment would require a multidisciplinary, long-term solution that addressed both his physical symptoms and emotional well-being.

This would require a multidisciplinary treatment plan that addressed both his medical needs and his emotional well-being.

Close-up view of the back of a John’s head showing a severe scalp condition with large, inflamed, nodular masses covering the nape of the neck.

A Specialist Who Saw the Whole Picture

During his evaluation with The Bumpinator, Dr. Sanusi Umar diagnosed John with three advanced scalp conditions occurring simultaneously.

The first was a large inflammatory mass consistent with scalp keloids or acne keloidalis nuchae. The second was cutis verticis gyrata (CVG), which creates deep, folded grooves of skin on the scalp.

The third, and most aggressive, is nodulocystic scalp disease marked by painful scalp lumps, deep cysts, and bumps that drain repeatedly. John’s condition represented the severe end of the clinical spectrum, with chronic inflammation and follicular injury that had been progressing for years.

John shared that previous treatments including antibiotics, topical medications, and dermatology visits did not produce meaningful improvement. The persistent symptoms had caused him significant emotional burden and withdrawal from social life.

He also mentioned the discomfort while lying down due to the spontaneous drainage from the scalp. Additionally, he has been concerned about the appearance of the acne keloidalis nuchae lesions. John’s concerns regarding the appearance of his scalp pathology have negatively impacted his social interactions and have resulted in a diminished quality of life.

The laboratory evaluation included Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing to assess blood sugar levels and identify individuals who are at an increased risk for developing type II diabetes.

Based upon the results of this test, it was determined that John was at an increased risk for developing type II diabetes and the Dr. U recommended that he begin taking semaglutide (a relatively new medication approved for the treatment of obesity and diabetes).

The decision was made to defer any major surgical interventions on John’s scalp pathology until his weight and metabolic markers were at safe and optimal levels.

Dr. Sanusi Umar gently examines the back of John’s head, which shows a severe, inflamed scalp condition.

Finding Support: The Human Side of Healing

John’s family had long shared the emotional weight of his condition. They described how the painful scalp lumps, the ongoing drainage, and the cosmetic impact had made John increasingly self-conscious. His avoidance of family gatherings and social spaces reflected just how deeply the acne keloidalis nuchae bumps and scalp deformities had affected him.

John revealed that he had been experiencing similar symptoms since adolescence. Over many years, he consulted dermatologists and specialists, often being told he had simple infections, scalp keloids, or ingrown hairs. After many failed treatments and cycles of drainage, swelling, and painful flare-ups, he felt uncertain about his remaining options.

A referral eventually led him to Dr. Umar, a specialist known for treating advanced cases of tufted folliculitis, chronic folliculitis of the nape, and dissecting cellulitis. Through the Hair Peace Foundation, John was approved for financial assistance, finally giving him access to an in-person evaluation.

John opening the door for his cousin and uncle who came to visit him at his house.

Lifestyle Changes and the Green Light for Surgery

John is walking on a treadmill, representing the lifestyle changes and 72-pound weight loss he achieved in preparation for surgery.

After beginning semaglutide, John began making significant changes to his lifestyle including improving his diet, increasing his level of physical activity and establishing a routine for managing his weight. After approximately 4 months, John documented a total weight loss of approximately 72 pounds and met all of the surgical readiness criteria established by the clinical team.

As John’s overall health continued to improve and the metabolic risk factors associated with his scalp pathology decreased, the clinical team decided to proceed with surgically addressing John’s acne keloidalis nuchae. All pre-surgical assessments indicated that John was stable and Dr. Umar informed John that there were no longer any barriers to proceeding with a definitive treatment of his scalp disease.

Restoring Confidence: Entering Surgery

On the date of the surgery, John arrived with his sister. The clinical team completed a final assessment of John’s weight loss, compliance with treatment and general health status to confirm that he had met the requirements for proceeding with surgery. The surgical procedure was planned to address the chronic inflammation in the scalp mass, the dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and the resulting deformities that John had endured for nearly 7 years.

John admitted he felt both relieved and nervous, but for the first time in years, he believed he was finally receiving a real, evidence-based treatment for bumps on the back of the head—a condition that many people mistakenly dismiss as “barber bumps” or cysts.

John sits next to his sister in a hospital room. His sister came on the day of his surgery to offer support.

A New Beginning

Dr. Umar performed an intricate operation to remove the AKN lesion, eliminating the source of chronic inflammation believed to be driving the deep nodules, cysts, and draining bumps associated with dissecting cellulitis.

To promote wound healing and support regeneration of skin and underlying tissues, Dr. Umar applied nanofat enriched with stem cells, processed from John’s own fat tissue.

After surgery, the Bumpinator reported that the surgery went very well and achieved a natural look for the back of John’s head. After the surgery, John felt good, and he was ready to put the days of being worried about people staring at him behind him and get back to his outgoing personality.

A close-up look of John’s head after the successful surgery to remove his acne keloidalis nuchae bumps.

Watch John’s Story

Watch the full episode of John’s transformation in our Bumpinator Docuseries here:

Also watch on Instagram.

Stay Tuned

Watch out for the next episode of the Bumpinator Docuseries, where Dr. Umar meets Festus, a man who has lived with extreme keloids most of his life.

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you know is struggling with Folliculitis Decalvans or Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), don’t wait. Early intervention and expert care can change lives.

Fill out our free online consultation form to have your case personally reviewed by Dr. Sanusi Umar.

Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with Folliculitis Decalvans and treatment with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice.

The post The Road Back: John Picone’s Fight for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Athena: Engineered for the Impossible (Part 2)

Dr Sanusi Umar MD — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 18:49:18 +0000

Choosing the right method for closing an area after a complex scalp surgery is important for achieving the best medical results and providing patients with the least amount of discomfort possible. For Anwar’s Folliculitis Decalvans, the problem needed a treatment that would cause the least amount of trauma to the scalp while still allowing for a safe and aesthetically pleasing closure. There were two types of methods available, both of which have their own set of challenges.

One way to close an area on the scalp after a surgery is through balloon expansion. Balloon expansion involves slowly expanding the surrounding area of the scalp to expand the area enough to close the wound. A significant drawback to this type of closure is that it is extremely invasive, placing a great deal of stress on otherwise healthy scalp tissue. Therefore, many surgeons and dermatologists find it to be a last resort.

The illustration shows how the balloon expansion method stretches the skin around the scalp, which imposes a significant trauma to the patient’s scalp.

A Breakthrough Technique: The Athena Suture Kit

In order to provide his patients with the most efficient, comfortable, and successful closure, Dr. Sanusi Umar uses the Athena Suture Kit for scalp closures. This was developed by Dr. U as a solution to the problems associated with traditional closure techniques.

Unlike the balloon expansion method, the Athena Suture Kit does not require the surgeon to stretch the remaining unaffected portions of the scalp; therefore, it creates less surgical trauma and less post-surgical pain for the patient.

Research & Scalp Health

According to Dr. Umar’s previously published research, the visible lesion is generally only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Folliculitis Decalvans. Oftentimes, the surrounding scalp tissue has been put into a pre-diseased state.

Because the pre-diseased tissue can become diseased at the slightest provocation (i.e., increased trauma from previous procedures), using a closure technique such as the balloon expansion method increases the likelihood of disease recurrence.

The use of the Athena Suture Kit decreases the length of time that it takes for patients to recover from surgery. Additionally, it maintains the health of the surrounding scalp tissue. This supports Dr. Anwar’s goal of preventing disease recurrence in cases such as Folliculitis Decalvans and Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), which are both existing on Anwar’s scalp before the successful surgery.

Dr. Umar explains that the trauma caused by the balloon expansion method can cause inflammation that eventually creates new Folliculitis Decalvans.

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Dr. Umar explains that the trauma caused by the balloon expansion method can cause inflammation that eventually creates new Folliculitis Decalvans.

Watch Anwar’s Story

Watch the first chapter of Anwar’s transformation here:

• Also available on Instagram and TikTok

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you know is struggling with Folliculitis Decalvans (FD), don’t wait. Early intervention and expert care can change lives.

Fill out our free online consultation form to have your case personally reviewed by Dr. Sanusi Umar.

Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with Folliculitis Decalvans (FD) and treatment with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice

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