How Much Time Off Do I Need for a Hair Transplant?

While each client may have a different recovery journey, our normal advice is to ensure you schedule your hair transplant for a time when you can take at least a few days of complete downtime – and, ideally, two weeks to give your scalp and transplanted follicles plenty of time to heal and recover.

KSL Clinic uses our preferred Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) process, a pain-free and minimally invasive hair transplant technique that can assist with a faster recovery. However, it remains essential to rest and recuperate immediately after your procedure.

The transplant itself is completed within one procedure on the day, using a local anaesthetic to ensure there is no need to stay in the clinic overnight. However, following the recovery and aftercare guidance is a core aspect of recovery – ample rest is a good way to help stimulate healing and hair regrowth.

Average Downtime for Recovery Following a Hair Transplant

The precision, customisation and simpler recovery associated with an FUE transplant are often considerations when selecting a hair transplant procedure – the latest data indicates that 75.4% of male hair transplants are completed using FUE, compared to 21.3% of FUT transplants. [1]

FUT hair transplants involve the linear harvesting of a strip of tissue, hence the longer recovery time and potential for scarring. 

This means that the time you need off after a hair transplant may depend in part on the technique used by your transplant provider.

Research shows that FUE transplants generally take longer during the procedure due to the precision of a microscopic hair transplant. However, the advantages include less scarring and pain, faster healing, and more targeted transplantation. [2] 

As an indication of the average timelines involved, the transplant normally takes two to six hours, although this can depend on the number of grafts necessary to complete the required hair transplant.

Bandaging is gently applied to the donor area and transplant site, with dressings usually removed within a day. The donor site will heal quickly since the microscopic incisions created during an FUE transplant are minimal and under one mm across.

Most clients opt to return to light activities within a couple of days, although we suggest a week or two off if possible to ensure you have privacy and recovery time.

Reasons a Hair Transplant May Require Additional Recovery Time

Extended recovery is rare following an FUE transplant, although there is a possibility that complications could occur.

The primary cause is usually when a client has booked a low-cost transplant, particularly with an overseas clinic, that doesn’t comply with strict regulations that protect your grafts from infection.

KSL Clinic also suggests that clients only consider a hair transplant with a regulated, highly experienced team, with a minimum of:

• CQC regulatory oversight 
• GMC surgical registrations
• Exceptional client testimonials
• Proven success rates and before and after case studies

Substandard transplants have caused scar tissue development, lower graft survival rates, and long-term impacts on scalp flexibility, all of which can be avoided when working with an accomplished and established provider.

Other complications can occur, including itching, infections, soreness and dissatisfaction with the outcomes.

Again, these are associated with a lack of surgical skill or technique, a failure to identify reasons a hair transplant may be inadvisable, and a lack of adherence to aftercare instructions causing grafts to become dislodged. [4]

Expediting Recovery Time After a Hair Transplant

The best way to ensure your transplant heals as quickly as possible is to listen closely to the aftercare guidance given, including any recommendations for supplementary therapies that can augment the healing of both your scalp and hair.

It is also essential that you select a reputable hair transplant clinic that provides the clinical environment necessary to mitigate the vast majority of potential risks and ensure your transplant is completed safely and according to the latest guidelines.

Clients can consider having their hair trimmed before a transplant, which can assist with concealing that they have had a hair transplant. They can also wear a hat after the initial recovery period—this is usually allowed within around ten days of hair transplant surgery.

Finally, all hair transplant clients should avoid strenuous exercise after their transplant, which will ensure that sweat and oil don’t disturb the healing process.

Dr Matee, our Director of Surgical Services, says:

‘Recovery is no small aspect of a hair transplant, and finding a time when you can take a week or two for rest is essential – while following all the expert advice we offer to ensure your transplant is properly cared for during this key phase.

If you need further advice about downtime after a hair transplant or want to clarify what to expect, I’d welcome you to book a free consultation with your preferred clinic or access our knowledge guides, which contain a wealth of information.’