Recovery after a hair transplant

The first days

Immediately after the treatment, redness and small crusts in the treated area are normal. Slight swelling, sometimes reaching the forehead, also occurs in the first days. The scalp can feel sensitive or somewhat tight.

Points to note in this phase:

• sleep with your head slightly raised, for example on an extra pillow;
• touch the treated area as little as possible;
• avoid scratching, even if the scalp itches;
• follow the washing instructions precisely;
• avoid intensive exertion, sweating, alcohol and smoking.

Weeks 1 to 2: crust formation

In the first two weeks the crusts gradually fall off. Washing carefully and as instructed helps this process. Do not scratch or pick at them yourself: that can loosen grafts and increases the risk of inflammation.

Itching in this period is common and is part of the healing. A mild, pH-neutral shampoo and keeping the scalp hydrated can reduce the discomfort.

Weeks 2 to 8: the shedding phase

After about two to four weeks, many of the transplanted hairs fall out. This is also called shock loss and is a normal part of the process: the hair shaft falls out, but the hair root stays in place and starts producing hair again later.

This phase can be mentally disappointing, because the treated area temporarily looks less full than it did just after the treatment. It is an expected step, not a sign that the treatment has failed.

Months 3 to 6: the first regrowth

From around the third month, new hair growth starts to become visible. The first hairs are often still thin and fine. Gradually they become thicker and firmer. Around the fifth and sixth month you usually see a clear difference from the starting situation, although the final picture has not yet been reached.

Months 6 to 12 and beyond

Between six and twelve months, density increases further and the structure of the hair improves. In many people the result becomes clearly visible around twelve months; in the crown it can take longer. The full picture sometimes takes up to around eighteen months.

How quickly and how completely recovery proceeds differs from person to person. Hair structure, donor area, age, health and the extent of hair loss all play a part. There is therefore no fixed timeline that applies to everyone.

Practical aftercare

Washing

Follow the washing schedule we give you. Use a mild shampoo, rinse with lukewarm water and pat the hair dry instead of rubbing it.

Sleeping

Sleep on your back for the first nights with your head slightly raised, so that the treated area does not press against the pillow.

Sport and exertion

Build activities up gradually. Sweating, saunas, swimming and contact sports are not advisable in the first period. During your check-up we discuss when you can start again.

Sun and headwear

Protect the treated area against strong sunlight. Wear headwear only as agreed and make sure no pressure or friction is applied to the grafts.

Smoking and alcohol

Both can have an unfavourable effect on blood flow and healing. Limit them as much as possible during the recovery period.

Cutting or shaving your hair

Wait with cutting or shaving until this has been discussed at a check-up. The donor area and the recipient area do not always follow the same pace in this respect.

When should you get in touch?

Get in touch with us if you notice any of the following:

• increasing pain instead of decreasing sensitivity;
• fever;
• pus, sharply increasing redness or an area that feels warm;
• swelling that gets worse after a few days;
• sudden, heavy bleeding from the donor area.

These complaints need not be serious, but they do deserve assessment. Are you unsure? Feel free to contact us – that is what our advice and follow-up service is for. This article is general information and does not replace personal medical advice.

Patience is part of it

The hardest part of recovery is often not the first week, but the period in which it seems as though little is happening. It is precisely then that the basis for the final result is being laid. Do not judge your result after three months, therefore, but after around twelve months.

Questions about your recovery?

We guide you throughout the entire process, including after the day of treatment. You will find more answers on the Frequently asked questions page, or contact us directly.

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