So you’ve had your FUE hair transplant. Congratulations! Now what? When it comes to getting a hair transplant, it is important to recognise that the results are going to change and improve over time. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as undergoing the procedure and then having a full set of hair. You need to give your scalp time to heal and for new hair to develop and grow. Let’s take a look at the results of a hair transplant week by week and month by month to give you a better understanding of what to expect after your transplant.
Summary
- It takes between 12 and 20 months to see the full results from a hair transplant
- The first 14 days are the most crucial for helping your grafts build strength for regrowth
- It is very important to follow the post-operative care instructions for the best long-term results
A Full Hair Transplant Timeline:
The first 14 days after your transplant
The first two weeks are detailed in your provided post-operation instructions. It is important to make sure you avoid physically touching your hair for the first 14 days. Sleeping elevated for 5 nights with the provided neck pillow is important, and we understand this unfortunately may not be your natural sleeping position, but again this ensures you do not accidentally touch your hair for the first 5 days, after which, you will then start your post-op hair washing procedure. Your doctor will advise you on this and the products to use. Once you reach the seven to ten day mark, the transplanted grafts are going to build strength, which means they are not going to fall when touched, However, do be mindful and don’t start scratching your head! It is at the seven day mark you may wear a loose fitted cap, but only if you really have to!
A power shower, and any strenuous physical activity or exercises are prohibited in the 14 day period.
Read more:
Days 15 – 30 – two weeks to 1 month after your hair transplant
In around two to three weeks, your scalp will have regained its previous appearance, with the initial redness, and scabbing having subsided, this is why a lot of our patients like to take two weeks off work after their hair transplant and then return around this stage. Don’t worry if you have experienced some hair shedding at this point, completely normal.
1 to 3 months after hair transplant
Around this period, you will start to see further shedding of the implanted hairs, it’s perfectly normal to be concerned but there is nothing to worry about! It is a natural part of the process but we know it can cause panic, especially if you are not expecting it. This is why it is so important to learn all about the different hair growth stages so that you’re fully prepared and know what to expect. You may start to see some new hair growth around the 3 month mark, which will continue from here on.
3 to 6 months after hair transplant
You will notice that the rate of re-growth starts to increase from the third or fourth month. Half of the result may be seen from the sixth month. The results you dreamed of are starting to take shape!
Read more: What to expect 4 months after a hair transplant
6 to 12 months after hair transplant
This is another exciting period, as during these six months the hair is going to grow and grow, becoming thicker and stronger with each passing month.
After 12 months, you are advised to arrange a review of implant area and the overall result of the procedure, although end results can take up to 18 months to fully show. Throughout the year it is possible to request a review so get in touch as and when you need to.
12 – 18 months after hair transplant
This is the final stage of hair growth and when you can expect to see the final results of the hair transplant operation come to fruition. Your hair is going to look thicker, longer, and more intensive. The final result will appear in the front area around 12 – 15 months after the operation. For the crown, you can expect full restoration after 18 – 20 months.
So there you have it: the different hair transplant growth stages. Hopefully, this hair transplant progress timeline has helped to give you a better understanding of what you should expect if you do decide to undergo an FUE hair transplant.
If you’re thinking about getting a hair transplant in the UK, get in contact with us today and find out about the process and how much it’ll cost. Looking to speak to our hair transplant specialists about hair transplant timelines? Get in touch with KSL today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until a hair transplant looks normal?
The timeline for when a hair transplant appears normal varies from person to person. Typically, within the first two weeks, initial redness and scabbing start to diminish, allowing your scalp to regain a more natural appearance. However, it may take several months for the transplanted hair to fully blend in with your existing hair and for any signs of the procedure to become virtually undetectable.
How can I maximise hair growth after my FUE hair transplant?
To maximise hair growth, follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions meticulously. This includes avoiding smoking and alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and using any recommended products and supplements to support new growth.
Will the texture of my transplanted hair change over time?
Transplanted hair may initially grow finer or curlier than your natural hair. Over time, usually within six to twelve months, the texture will often normalise and blend seamlessly with the surrounding hair, providing a more uniform appearance.
How strong are hair grafts after 7 days?
After 7 days, hair grafts begin to establish themselves more securely in the scalp. While they may not be fully anchored at this point, they should be stable enough to withstand minimal contact without dislodging. It’s essential to continue following post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to support the healing process and ensure the long-term success of your transplant.
Is it normal to experience itching during the hair growth stages?
Yes, mild itching is common as the scalp heals and new hair starts to grow. It’s important to resist scratching to avoid damaging the transplanted follicles. Using the saline solution spray provided along with antihistamines can help subside the itching.
How long until a hair transplant looks normal?
The timeline for when a hair transplant appears normal varies from person to person. Typically, within the first two weeks, initial redness and scabbing start to diminish, allowing your scalp to regain a more natural appearance. However, it may take several months for the transplanted hair to fully blend in with your existing hair and for any signs of the procedure to become virtually undetectable.
How strong are hair grafts after 7 days?
After 7 days, hair grafts begin to establish themselves more securely in the scalp. While they may not be fully anchored at this point, they should be stable enough to withstand minimal contact without dislodging. It’s essential to continue following post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to support the healing process and ensure the long-term success of your transplant.
How can I maximise hair growth after my FUE hair transplant?
To maximise hair growth, follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions meticulously. This includes avoiding smoking and alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and using any recommended products and supplements to support new growth.
Is it normal to experience itching during the hair growth stages?
Yes, mild itching is common as the scalp heals and new hair starts to grow. It’s important to resist scratching to avoid damaging the transplanted follicles. Using the saline solution spray provided along with antihistamines can help subside the itching.
Will the texture of my transplanted hair change over time?
Transplanted hair may initially grow finer or curlier than your natural hair. Over time, usually within six to twelve months, the texture will often normalise and blend seamlessly with the surrounding hair, providing a more uniform appearance.
