If you're considering hair transplant surgery or are just curious about the procedure, this blog post is for you.
In this guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of hair transplantation - from the technique used to implant follicles to post-surgery healing times and when you can expect your new hair growth.
We'll start by discussing what a hair transplant entails and how it differs from other hair restoration procedures. We'll also explore techniques in modern-day hair transplantation, such as FUE (follicular unit extraction) and strip harvesting.
Next, we will review what happens during a typical hair transplant procedure - including pre-operative preparation, anaesthesia options, and donor site selection.
You will learn how many grafts are typically needed for full head coverage and how long the surgery takes.
After that, we'll look at what happens after your surgery is complete - specifically focusing on the ten-day recovery period where you may experience discomfort or swelling around both your donor and bald areas. We will provide tips on managing pain during this time and washing your scalp correctly, so you don't damage any newly implanted grafts.
Finally, we will discuss when you can expect new hairs to start growing instead of those transplanted. We will explain why patience is vital when seeing results from a hair transplant - with most people experiencing significant growth within six months following their procedure but up to one year for full results!
So, whether you're planning on undergoing a hair transplant or simply interested in learning more about it, this comprehensive guide has everything covered!
Table of Contents:
• What to Expect During the First Four Weeks
• Signs of Permanent New Growth After Transplant Surgery
• What Your Hair Will Look Like Six Months Post-Surgery
• Conclusion
What to Expect During the First Four Weeks
After a hair transplant surgery, the first four weeks are crucial for proper healing and growth, and following your surgeon's post-op instructions is essential for a successful outcome.
During the initial post-transplant phase, scabbing on the scalp frequently occurs. This happens as new follicles form in place of those transplanted. The scabs will eventually flake off but should not be picked or scratched as it could cause damage to newly developing follicles or lead to infection.
Swelling around the forehead area may also occur and typically subsides within ten days but can last up to two weeks, depending on individual cases and how well they heal afterwards.
Applying cold compresses can help reduce any discomfort associated with swelling while promoting faster recovery times.
Scabbing on the scalp and facial swelling can happen in the first four weeks after a hair transplant procedure.
Takeaway: After a hair transplant surgery, the scalp may experience scabbing as new follicles form. Swelling in the region of your forehead may be an expected occurrence following a hair transplant procedure and can last for up to two weeks. This can be lessened with cold compresses or medications recommended by your doctor. In other words, given proper care and attention post-surgery, you should see successful results from your procedure.
Signs of Permanent New Growth After Transplant Surgery
Patience is key when waiting for permanent new growth after hair transplant surgery.
Early regrowth signs typically begin with a few wispy strands sprouting up from the donor site or bald area 10 days post-surgery as healing begins.
This process is known as "popping", where hairs become visible but are still very thin and weak. It can take six to nine months before thicker strands appear throughout the treated areas, and this is due to the hair growth cycle, which takes time before reaching its full potential.
It is essential to bear in mind that the regrowth rate for each individual varies significantly depending on age, genetics, lifestyle habits (smoking/alcohol), and medications taken, therefore, it is not wise to compare your progress with others who have undergone similar treatments since outcomes differ significantly.
Furthermore, some may find their transplanted hair growing faster than anticipated. Either way, staying optimistic and exercising patience throughout this process is imperative.
Ultimately, around nine to twelve months post-surgery, you should expect to see noticeable changes in texture from wispy, thin strands towards thicker and fuller ones, along with subtle colour variations.
However, remember that each person's journey is unique, so it may take up to twelve months, depending on how well your body responds during recovery.
Signs of permanent new growth after transplant surgery may be visible as early as three months post-surgery, with the rate and extent of regrowth varying depending on individual factors. As time progresses, further changes in texture and thickness can occur; let's look at what you can expect six months into your recovery period.
Takeaway: Patience is a virtue in hair transplants, as complete regrowth can take at least one year. Initial wispy strands will begin popping up around ten days post-surgery. However, each individual's growth rate varies due to age and lifestyle habits, and the final result should be visible after nine to twelve months.
What Your Hair Will Look Like Six Months Post-Surgery
At six months post-surgery, hair transplant patients can expect to see significant growth.
Around 60% – 70% of the transplanted hairs will have penetrated the scalp and begun growing in their new location. Although these newly transplanted hairs are still relatively thin, they should be visible when examined closely. Fast growth typically begins around month four, with results being visible.
During the first ten days following surgery, some shedding from the donor and balding areas are expected as new follicles settle in. This is normal and does not mean the transplanted grafts have been lost. On the contrary, it signifies that those grafts are actively growing from the healthy hair follicles and should be fully grown within twelve months.
The regrowth experience differs between individuals due to many factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle habits (dietary choices), and stress levels, so there is no definitive answer on how quickly or slowly someone's hair will grow back after a transplant procedure.
Most people begin seeing noticeable results around four months post-surgery if everything has gone according to plan.
The key here is patience - while some might be disappointed at what seems like slow progress, rest assured that those little hairs will fill out over time.
Takeaway: It's a waiting game, but typically around four months post-surgery, you'll see some new growth. Shedding in the first ten days is normal and expected - don't worry if it seems like your hair isn't growing back quickly, as those little hairs will grow into full locks with time.
Conclusion
A hair transplant can be a great way to restore lost or thinning hair.
After the procedure, it's essential to know what changes may occur during the first four weeks and beyond as your body adjusts to its new follicles, with full results being seen within 12-18 months post-procedure.
Shedding may occur during this period as your body adjusts to the new strands. However, after six months of healing and growth cycles, permanent new growth will start appearing in its place.
Proper care and maintenance of your scalp following a hair transplant ensures that the transplanted hairs grow back strong and healthy for years to come.
If you're looking for a permanent solution to hair loss, contact the Harley Street Hair Clinic. Our experienced team of professionals can provide tailored advice and treatment options to help your hair grow back after a transplant.
