When skin containing hair follicles is used to reconstruct part of the tongue, it can continue to behave like ordinary skin. The warm, moist environment of the mouth does not automatically deactivate follicles, so they may keep producing hair. This can be surprising, but it is not a sign of infection, poor healing, or surgical error. It simply reflects the biological “memory” of the transplanted tissue doing what it was originally designed to do.
For some people, the presence of hair in the mouth feels strange, embarrassing, or irritating, especially if it catches on food or is visible when speaking. Others notice only fine, sparse growth and are not bothered. When treatment is desired, options such as laser hair removal or electrolysis can permanently disable the follicles. Surgeons typically discuss this possibility beforehand, emphasizing that the phenomenon is rare, medically harmless, and manageable if it becomes troublesome.
