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.

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.

Alt Text / Caption/image title attribute:
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

The post Athena: Engineered for the Impossible (Part 2) appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

In Anwar’s skin condition, the challenge is to find a way to close the area where the lesion is removed both securely and esthetically. Anwar has an underlying condition, Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) along with Folliculitis Decalvans (FD). The scalp tissue has a little flexibility in which it requires a specialized approach that could withstand high tension, while also maintaining a naturally pleasing appearance.

Innovative Solutions with the Athena Suture Kit

To achieve this, Dr. U utilized the Athena Suture Kit, a surgical tool developed within his clinic specifically for scalp procedures. The kit is designed to enable wound closure under substantial tension while preserving esthetic integrity of the surgical site.  This is a crucial advantage for scalp surgeries that involve extensive tissue removal, just like Anwar’s case. 

This method has already shown success in previously published studies on Folliculitis Decalvans surgery. Additionally, this kit has demonstrated its effectiveness in achieving durable, cosmetically balanced results. 

For Anwar’s procedure, it provided both the precision and stability needed to ensure the proper healing of his scalp and most importantly, a visually excellent outcome.

Advancing Surgical Outcomes

The Bumpinator, Dr. Umar, continues to improve outcomes in complex scalp reconstruction through integrating innovative techniques like the Athena Suture Kit. His approach emphasizes surgical precision, functional restoration, and esthetic balance. Dr.  ensuring each patient receives care tailored to long-term healing and confidence.

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

The post Athena: Engineered for the Impossible (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.

Many believed it was a simple scalp infection, ingrown hairs, or even scalp cysts, but nothing worked. John’s problem only got worse over time. John’s problem only got worse over time because the underlying issue was a combination of folliculitis keloidalis nuchae and chronic abscessing scalp inflammation. 

These two scalp conditions are known for painful bumps on the back of the head and recurrent boils.

The Most Disturbing Symptoms

What John said was the worst part about having this problem was the huge lump on the back of his head. He knew that it brought immediate attention to him. Every time John laid down, the pressure of the lump would cause it to “pop” or “drain”, and then leave John with more frustration and embarrassment.

In addition to the big lump, John had hundreds of painful boil-like bumps all over his scalp. They would become swollen, they would open up (rupture), and then fill again. John was unable to get out of this cycle. 

With each new boil forming, John became more uncomfortable, more drained, and less comfortable being around other people. Eventually, he stopped going to places he used to enjoy because none of the treatments helped calm the chronic inflammation damaging his scalp.

Why Treatment Became a Turning Point

Things changed when John went to see Dr. Umar. Dr. U carefully looked at John’s scalp and told him exactly what two conditions were causing the swelling, the draining, and the structural problems John’s scalp had developed. 

For the first time, John understood why his symptoms had continued and why all previous treatments had failed. Dr. Umar then laid out a specific treatment plan aligned with credible studies designed for John’s disease, one that targeted the root cause of the painful scalp bumps, the drainage, and the changes in his scalp structure. 

Getting a clear understanding of how John’s disease could be treated, was much more than just seeing another doctor. 

John’s meeting with Dr. Sanusi Umar was the start of John’s recovery of feeling confident and hopeful again, after many years of feeling trapped by a disease that seemed to have an endless grip on John’s life.

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

Watch John’s Story

Watch the fifth chapter of John’s transformation here:

• Instagram
• TikTok

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.

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 The Unwanted Spotlight Due to Inflamed Scalp Cysts appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

He has gone through dozens of doctors, tried a multitude of prescriptions and spent years being told by each doctor, “Try this cream,” or “Just wait and see.” Nothing worked for John and things got worse as time went on.

One day John visited another doctor, Dr. Pimple Popper, hoping to get some answers. This doctor evaluated how bad the scarring and inflammation were, and then said that the scalp disorder is far too advanced for them to treat.

However, instead of leaving John with no options, the doctor referred John to Dr. Sanusi Umar, who is known for his special qualifications treating extreme scalp disorders.

This referral changed everything for John.

Finding The Hair Peace Foundation

As John researched Dr. Umar, he found out about the specialized procedures required for extreme scalp disorders and the high level of training and experience needed to perform them. He also learned how expensive such procedures could be. 

John then discovered The Hair Peace Foundation — Dr. Umar’s non-profit organization. It is designed to identify and evaluate potential patients who may qualify for free surgical treatment from volunteer surgeons. 

A Leap Of Faith Into A New Beginning

John decided to submit his application to The Hair Peace Foundation. He didn’t know if anything would come of it, but he realized that at least he would have nothing to lose. Weeks later, John received a call asking him to schedule an appointment with Dr. Umar.

For years, John had been misdiagnosed, treated with band-aid remedies, and provided with temporary solutions. Now, he was going to sit down with a doctor who truly understands the patterns of his scalp disorder. 

For the first time, John saw a light at the end of the tunnel. He saw a way forward that included clarity, direction and a customized treatment plan just for him.

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

Watch John’s Story

Watch the ninth chapter of John’s transformation here:

• Instagram
• TikTok

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.

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 The Door Opens to Finally End the Recurring Scalp Bumps appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Each of these conditions presented their own obstacles for John. However, while these were clearly not simply aesthetic concerns for John, they impacted his overall self-confidence, ability to socialize, and day-to-day comfort levels. 

Once John embarked on his treatment plan with Dr. Umar, however, things quickly changed for the better. He was able to take charge of each area of his physical and mental well-being — including his weight loss journey, controlling his chronic inflammation, improving the condition of his skin and planning a successful future.

The Return of the Fire Within

Michael, John’s cousin, has personally observed the many ways in which John has demonstrated discipline with regards to his diet and exercise, and the determination that John has displayed in continuing to push forward — even when he broke his foot. Michael believes that the fire that burned within John before is now stronger than it has ever been.

However, since he has begun to follow Dr. Umar’s structured plan which includes medical weight loss management, controlling inflammation and treating his conditions in stages — John’s family has reported that they have noticed the spark within him return.

While John’s family has certainly observed the positive changes that he has undergone, so too have his co-workers and supervisors. As they have complimented John on how much thinner and healthier he appears, this has reinforced everything he has worked toward for so long. 

The fact that John is experiencing these changes, especially after enduring many years of suffering from scalp bumps and the heavy weight of the folds created by CVG, makes these changes all the more meaningful.

More Than the Treatment of Chronic Folliculitis of the Nape

As someone who often chose to skip family gatherings due to embarrassment from his scalp swelling and draining nodules, hearing other people comment on his positive progress is an incredibly motivating force for John.

Dr. Sanusi Umar’s comprehensive treatment program is doing more than providing John with an avenue to remove the bumps and correct the folds on the back of his head. It is giving John the opportunity to restore his confidence, improve his mobility, and instill in him hope again.

That spark that everyone can see in John? It’s no longer coming back —it’s taking over.

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

Watch John’s Story

Watch the second part chapter seven of John’s transformation here:

• Instagram
• TikTok

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.

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 The Spark Returns After Battling With Chronic Folliculitis of the Nape (Part 2) appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

For John, his search has been emotional too. In fact, when he got into his car to drive to Dr. Sanusi Umar’s office, he cried before he even left his driveway. Years of looking for a legitimate solution and finally seeing the possibility of moving ahead brought tears to his eyes.

Looking Beyond the Surface: How to Treat the Entire Picture

When John arrived at the clinic, Dr. Sanusi Umar took the time to evaluate not only the health of John’s scalp but the chronic inflammation which resulted in the hardened bumps on the back of his head. 

Dr. U performed a complete HbA1c test to determine John’s glucose tolerance and how well his body metabolized carbohydrates. As a result of this testing, it was determined that John was at high-risk for developing type-2 diabetes. 

After discovering that John was at risk for diabetes, the focus of the treatment changed from treating only the hairline bumps to protecting John’s long-term health.

Dr. U told John he should begin taking semaglutide: a new, evidence-based medication used for managing weight, while helping John get closer to a healthy baseline weight before undergoing surgery. 

This is a very important part of treatment for chronic inflammatory scalp conditions. Making sure that John is in a healthy metabolic baseline will improve the healing process. Additionally, it will reduce the risk of complications during surgery and promote long-term success.

A New Plan, A New Partner, and a New Beginning

John quickly agreed to the treatment plan. For the first time, John felt like he was being seen as a whole person, not just another patient — a person struggling with symptoms. Dr. Umar would help him regain control of his weight and prepare him for surgery to remove the bumps permanently.

For years, John has fought a battle with his weight. Having a doctor that offered support and guidance meant so much more to John than he thought. Today, John feels hopeful about the road ahead. With a tailored treatment plan from the Bumpinator, John has a clear path ahead of him.

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

Watch John’s Story

Watch the sixth chapter of John’s transformation here:

• Instagram
• TikTok

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.

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 Optimize Before We Cut: An Early Start to Treatment Helps John Get Ahead of His Scalp Bumps appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Eventually, he figured that enough was enough, and he needed to be able to help himself. That’s when he found Dr. Sanusi Umar, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in AKN removal. Through specialized techniques that he developed, Dr. Umar not only eliminated the Acne Keloidalis Nuchae scalp bumps but also left Rodolfo with minimal scarring and aesthetically pleasing results.

Rodolfo’s scalp before and after AKN surgery with second intention healing under Dr. Umar’s care. 

What are the challenges of surgically excising scalp bumps?

Many people assume that once the Acne Keloidalis Nuchae lesion is surgically cut out, the journey ends. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Surgical excision in the nape and scalp area comes with unique challenges: 

• Wound splitting open due to excessive tension and constant movement.
• Difficulty closing the wound if a wide excision was made.
• Bulky, visible scarring, especially if skin grafts were used to close the wound.

These factors have driven Dr. Umar to develop secondary intention wound healing techniques, including the invention of the Athena Tension Suture Kit, a surgical tool designed to facilitate high-tension wound healing.

Watch our YouTube Short on Rodolfo’s story here:

Dr. Umar’s Secondary Intention Wound Healing Technique on Acne Keloidalis Nuchae

Rodolfo knew that surgical excision wouldn’t be the end of his struggle with AKN. The healing process is just as important to achieving results that he could be proud of. This is why Dr. Umar recommended secondary intention wound healing.

Side view of Rodolfo’s scalp showing dramatic improvement after AKN removal and second intention healing with Dr. Umar.

Unlike traditional closure techniques, where a surgeon pulls wound edges together with stitches or grafts, secondary intention healing allows the wound to close naturally over time. The body builds new tissue from the inside out, gradually smoothing the area and blending it with the natural hairline. This type of healing is particularly ideal for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae excision because it lowers the risk of recurrence, avoids tension in mobile areas like the neck, and reduces raised and unnatural-looking scars.

To further optimize healing, Dr. Umar invented the Athena Tension Suture Kit, a patented surgical tool designed to gently bring wound edges together under controlled tension. This innovation reduces skin tearing while guiding the wound toward a natural-looking outcome.

Roldolfo’s Aesthetically Pleasing Scalp Keloid Removal Results

Rodolfo understood that removing the lesion was only half the battle, and that the real success would come from how his scalp healed afterward. Secondary intention wound healing can take weeks if not months to fully recover, which is why he had to follow a rigorous wound care routine. This included regular cleaning, dressing changes, and follow-up visits. 

Healing took patience, but the payoff was worth it. Today, Rodolfo’s scalp is smooth, flat, and naturally contoured to his hairline, with only minimal scarring as a reminder of what he overcame.

After living with AKN for years, Rodolfo’s scalp healed smoothly with Dr. Umar’s second intention technique, leaving him happier, more confident, and free from painful bumps.

Hope for Others Living with This Painful Skin Condition

Secondary intention wound healing worked for Rodolfo, and it could work for you, too. His story is just one of many patients who have gone through this healing method with Dr. Sanusi Umar. If you or anyone you know is suffering from AKN and is curious about second intention healing, fill out our free online consultation form to be reviewed by Dr. Umar.

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

The post VIDEO: Living with Painful Hairline Scalp Bumps: Why Second Intention Healing Offers Hope Beyond Surgery appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Our patient Michael is no stranger to this. When he came into the Dr. U Skin and Hair Clinic, his face was covered in cystic acne. His sensitive skin was red and inflamed, and healed zits had unfortunately left dark marks and pitted scars. While many teens respond to topical or oral treatments, others, like Michael, didn’t feel comfortable pursuing treatments like oral drugs, specifically Isotretinoin or Accutane. His parents wanted to find an alternative to this common acne treatment, so they visited Dr. Sanusi Umar, a board-certified dermatologist, and together, they came up with a game plan to tackle his acne once and for all.

Watch our YouTube Short to see Michael’s transformation:

Michael’s Acne Treatment Plan

Because Michael was balancing school and extracurricular activities, downtime was a major concern. He wanted to be able to visit the clinic, complete his session, and be free to work, study, or socialize right after. Dr. Umar took his lifestyle into account when he created a treatment plan that would work for him. His goal was to make sure Michael didn’t feel too much pain from the procedure, was able to be out-and-about the moment he stepped out of the clinic, and, of course, address the acne and bring Michael towards smoother, clearer skin. 

Michael underwent Fraxel Dual Laser and Vbeam laser to dramatically improve his acne breakouts and scarring.

He ultimately recommended phytodynamic therapy, which consisted of:

• Fraxel Dual Laser, which targets both the superficial and deeper layers of the skin to improve texture, reduce dark spots, and smooth acne scars.
• Vbeam Laser, which uses precise pulses of light to calm redness, shrink inflamed acne lesions, and fade scarring.

Getting His Skin and Confidence Back

Each session had Michael getting closer and closer to his skin goals. While he did have some side effects like temporary redness and minimal swelling from his acne treatment, the final results exceeded his expectations. He no longer had painful, swollen bumps, pus-filled zits, and deep, pitted scars. He had fewer active breakouts and less redness. The laser treatments had helped make his skin significantly smoother, and it was all worth the transformation he had both inside and out. He felt a lot more confident, and he felt like this was the first step in laying the foundation of a successful future.

Laser Treatment Options for Hormonal Acne

Oral medications like Isotretinoin aren’t the only answer to severe acne breakouts. Laser treatments can effectively address aggressive hormonal acne. Breakouts can wreak havoc on one’s confidence, and this can be debilitating at any stage in life, but especially when you’re still a teenager. Michael’s story is just one example of how he regained his confidence through Dr. Umar’s recommended laser treatment plan. If you’re ready to take the first step in your anti-acne journey, complete our free online consultation form to be reviewed by Dr. Umar to learn about your options.

Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with skin photodynamic treatments with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice.

The post VIDEO: Michael’s Journey: Teen Acne Laser Treatment with Dr. Umar appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Watch this YouTube Short to see Karen’s transformation:

Karen’s Skin Rejuvenation Treatment Plan

Karen wasn’t looking for dramatic change. Like many of our patients, she simply wanted to feel more confident in her skin. To address Karen’s skin concerns, Dr. Umar recommended a combination of non-surgical procedures that addressed her issues with minimal invasiveness and maximum results. His goal with this skin rejuvenation was to enhance Karen’s natural beauty. 

His facial rejuvenation plan consisted of:

• Botox which, when injected into the skin, causes the muscles to relax and soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by facial movements. 
• Dermal filler to restore volume loss, address deep lines, and contour the face.
• Lutronic Ultra laser resurfacing to treat uneven texture and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure. 

Our Patient’s Uplifting Results

The treatments were quick, minimally invasive, and involved little downtime. Karen experienced some temporary redness and swelling, which is expected, but the deeper transformation was yet to come. The combination of Botox, filler, and laser treatment worked together to give Karen a subtle yet youthful look. After she had completely healed, her skin looked completely rejuvenated, and she was visibly more confident than she had been when she entered the Dr. U Skin and Hair Clinic.

Non-Invasive Procedures For Your Desired Look And Lifestyle

Not all skin rejuvenation treatments have to be under the knife, as we have seen from Karen’s treatment and results. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to naturally enhancing your features. Karen’s story is just one example of how subtle treatments can lead to powerful results. If you’re ready to explore non-invasive skin rejuvenation tailored to your needs and lifestyle, we’re here to help. Fill out our free online consultation form to be reviewed by Dr. Umar to learn about your options.

Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with skin rejuvenation treatments with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice.

The post Video: How Our Patient Reclaimed Her Glow Through Non-Invasive Skin Rejuvenation with Dr. Umar appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Watch this YouTube Reel on Dr. Sanusi Umar’s Blackhead Removal Advice:

What Are Blackheads?

Blackheads are a common form of acne that develop when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and debris. When the pore remains open, the material oxidizes, turning dark—hence the name ‘blackhead.’ These plugs are called comedones, and while they aren’t as painful as inflamed lesions such as pustules or cysts, they are nonetheless irritating and can harm your self-image.

Why Shouldn’t You Squeeze Blackheads?

Squeezing a blackhead isn’t the most efficient way to get rid of it. Doing this can cause redness, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. As Dr. Sanusi Umar explains, “What we’ll find is when you squeeze a lot, you create a lot of inflammation around that lesion.” Squeezing a blackhead with dirty hands or unsterilized tools can also introduce harmful bacteria to your pores, causing infections. 

Treating Blackheads At Dr. U Hair and Skin Clinic

One of the ways Dr. Umar removes large, stubborn open comedones is by using a scalpel. He creates a nick in the skin around the hair follicle and removing the lesion. This method is quick, efficient, and can help prevent recurrence. We can precisely remove the impacted material and any surrounding keratinized tissue that may contribute to recurrent clogging.

Ready to Clear Up Stubborn Open Comedones?

Dr. U Hair and Skin Clinic is committed to helping patients experience excellent results and prevent blackhead recurrence. If you would like a free consultation to be reviewed by Dr. Sanusi Umar, please fill out our free online consultation form.

The post VIDEO: Blackhead or Open Comedone Treatment appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.