Hair transplant is a gradual process so you have to be patient. Expect a shedding phase and dormant phase in the first two months followed by real hair growth. Minimal side effects after the transplant are not too worrisome. In this blog, we will take a realistic look at the post-transplant months.
75% of Canadians suffering from hair loss are interested in hair transplantation. Social and other media depict a radical transformation that appears to happen overnight, while reality is far from it. The reality is a slow and gradual hair growth. You will only see real hair growth in the 6th month. Don’t lose hope with the initial shedding of transplanted hair as real change doesn’t happen overnight.
We explore what to expect at each stage for 6 months after hair transplant and how to handle hair transplant side effects.
What is the Hair Transplant Process?
To understand the aftermath, know about the procedure first.
The hair transplant procedure removes your hair follicles from one area of the body to the bald area of the scalp. The skin grafting from a healthy hair growth region to a balding part is the essence of this procedure.
Do Hair Transplants Work?
Yes, they do. It is a proven surgical procedure for hair restoration. However, the success rate really depends on the graft survival rate and the patient’s health and skin condition. Hair transplants work better than the over-the-counter restoration products for hair like minoxidil, FDA approved hair growth medications and Finasteride.
The surgery involves moving small pieces of scalp grafts from the donor area to bald patches. The strip of skin contains 1 or 4hair grafts. For most cases the procedure takes around six to nine hours.
How Long Does the Hair Transplant Process Take?
Figure: Hair Transplant Stages
It is important to note that the male and female hair transplant processes, although similar in principle, differ markedly in technique. Men generally have overall or patchy baldness, leading to bald spots. This makes it easier to identify donor areas. Women, on the other hand, generally display a broadening of the hair partings, with bald spots rarely showing. With an overall thinning and a general desire for greater volume and quality, identification of donor areas can be difficult.
The transplant process itself takes approximately 4 to 8 hours, although it can take longer for women. However, the recovery process can span longer than a year.
The final growth will take more than a year. During this gradual healing process, your patience is important. You will see great results but you have to wait it out.
The 6 Phases of the Post-Hair Transplant Journey
Here, we have divided the post-hair transplant recovery journey into 6 phases:
Phase 1: Immediate Recovery (Days 1–7)
Initially after the transplant you will see redness, scabs, and swelling in the surgical areas. Consider this as the natural healing stage.
What happens: You might experience swelling with redness and discomfort, scabbing and possible bleeding in the places of grafting.
What can you do: Follow the surgeon’s instructions while cleaning the scalp. Scratching the scabs can cause infection. Avoid touching your scalp otherwise. If you are on them, then medications for alopecia need to be paused as per your surgeon’s instructions.
Pro tip: Keep your head elevated while sleeping to help with the swelling.
Phase 2: Early Healing (Weeks 2–4)
After the first week your transplanted scalp sections start to heal. What you see is not hair transplant side effects, but a natural part of healing. Don’t panic and allow your scalp to heal naturally.
What happens: Scabs fall off with shock, hair loss, occasional itching and redness.
Reason: Follicles enter the resting stage after the trauma of surgery and prepare for regrowth.
What can you do: Continue with daily hair routines with regular shampoos and protect your scalp with shower caps or bandages.
Phase 3: The Shedding & Waiting Period (Months 1–3)
Patients are often surprised when transplanted hairs start falling off. Know that it’s totally normal! This is a “shock loss” which happens because of transplanted follicles entering the resting phase.
What happens: All transplanted hair falls off. No significant hair growth was noticed in transplanted areas. In the donor area new hair growth must have grown by now.
What can you do: The hair enters the resting phase. New hair takes time to grow (1cm/month).
Pro tip: Consult your surgeon and follow their advice and be patient through the process. Getting into a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet can help in hair follicle growth.
While this can be scary, hold your horses! Your hair transformation is not far away.
Phase 4: (3-4 months)
In the second and third month there might not be any visible growth. This surely can be discouraging but remember that hair follicles are establishing under the scalp.
What happens: No visible growth. The scalp looks closer to pre-surgery.
Reason: The follicles are recovering and are bracing for the growth cycle.
What can you do: Focus on hair care, take the prescribed medicines and follow-up appointments for reassurance.
Patience is the key so try not to compare your recovery stage with others.
Phase 5: Visible Transformation (Months 6–12)
From 6th to 12th month, you might want to brace for real hair growth. This is an exciting stage as you will start seeing results.
This time onwards expect to see consistent hair growth. Your hair transplant expenses will be worth it with full hair growth from 6th to 12th month after the transplant.
What happens: Baby hair appears on the scalp, density improves, initial hair with a different texture than existing hair. Gradual hair growth with strength.
What can you do: Consult with your surgeon or dermatologist, continue with regular or prescribed hair shampoos and oils.
Pro tip: Track hair growth progress every week.
Phase 6: Final Results & Maintenance (12–18 Months)
What happens: The transplanted hair follicles mature completely. You will notice full growth and similar thickness to your natural hair.
What can you do: You can style your hair as you want. Consider PRP therapy, supplements, or topical solutions for maintaining density.
Care tips: Healthy scalp hygiene, avoiding smoking, protecting hair from UV damage, balanced diet.
| Timeline | What’s Happening | What Will You See | Do’s and Don’ts |
| Day 0 (Surgery Day) | Hair follicles are extracted and implanted into recipient sites. | Bandages, numbness, mild soreness. | Rest, follow the clinic’s post-op instructions strictly, avoid touching grafts. Incorporate protein protein-rich diet with fruits and vegetables. In case of irritation you can use antibacterial cream and prescribed medications. |
| Days 1–7 (Immediate Recovery) | Healing of donor and recipient sites begins. | Redness, swelling, scabs around grafts. | Sleep with head elevated, use saline sprays if prescribed, avoid sweating/exercise. If they do not subsideyour surgeon can prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory steroids. Have a balanced diet with Vitamin A, C., D and E. |
| Weeks 2–4 | Scabs fall off naturally. | Transplanted hairs may start shedding (normal). | Wash gently, don’t pick scabs, avoid hats unless approved. In case of pain, get painkillers prescribed by your surgeon. Vitamin B and protein rich diet for healing. |
| Weeks 3–6 (Shedding Phase) | “Shock loss” occurs: transplanted hairs shed. | The scalp looks similar to pre-surgery. | Don’t panic, this is part of the cycle. Maintain gentle care. |
| Months 2–3 | Follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase. | Minimal visible growth, scalp recovering. | Stay patient, maintain nutrition with protein and vitamins, and attend follow-up checks. |
| Months 3–4 | Early regrowth begins. | Fine, thin “baby hairs” start to appear. | Avoid harsh styling, protect scalp from sun.Have whole grains in your diet with healthy fats. |
| Months 5–6 | Hair starts growing thicker and stronger. | Noticeable new coverage, better density. | Resume normal shampooing, healthy lifestyle supports growth. Go back to your normal diet but avoid junk food. Consult your surgeon to get medications like Minodixil for hair growth. |
| Months 6–9 | Significant cosmetic improvement. | Hairline more visible, overall density increasing. | Regular trims ok, avoid aggressive chemical treatments. Leafy greens and fish can be great for stimulating hair growth. |
| Months 9–12 | Mature growth phase. | Hair looks fuller, blends naturally. | photos, discuss maintenance options with the clinic. |
| Months 12–18 (Final Results) | Maximum density achieved, hairs thicken fully. | Natural-looking results, permanent growth pattern established. | Consider PRP or supplements if advised, maintain scalp care, protect from UV. |
| Beyond 18 Months | Long-term maintenance phase. | Stable results, transplanted hair behaves like natural hair. | Normal grooming ok, but ongoing care (healthy) |
Table: Breakdown of Journey Post Hair Transplant
Do’s and Don’ts Post Hair Transplant
Post Surgery Care (1st Week)
Do’s
- Keep your head elevated with reclining chair or double pillows to minimize swelling.
- Use saline spray in the donor and recipient area of the scalp to keep them hydrated.
- Apply prescribed ointments by the surgeon and gently wash your scalp.
Don’ts
- Avoid scratching or pick it at the scabs.
- Don’t get into strenuous exercise like heavy lifting.
- Keep your scalp away from sun exposure.
Adjustments in Lifestyle (1st Month)
Do’s
- Follow through with a balanced diet rich in vitamins, protein and minerals to support hair growth.
- Drink plenty of water for quick recovery.
- Wash hands before touching your scalp to avoid infection.
Don’ts
- Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol.
- Don’t use chemical-based hair styling products and shampoos.
- Keep your scalp away from hot water to keep hair follicles undisturbed.
Long-Term Hair Care
Do’s
- Gently wash your hair to avoid breakage.
- Use chemical-free shampoo as per medical advice.
- Protect your scalp from direct sunlight with cotton head covers.
Don’ts
- Don’t use harsh shampoo or products.
- Don’t prick the transplanted areas of the scalp.
- Avoid panicking during the shedding phase.
- Avoid using heat tools to protect hair follicles
Exercise (Following Medical Advice)
Do’s
- Start with light activities like cycling and walking for blood circulation in the scalp.
- With your body healing, start getting into strenuous activities like jogging.
Don’ts
- In the first 1 month after surgery don’t get into heavy exercising.
- Don’t go swimming for at least a month.
Emotional Well-Being
Do’s
- Have patience as hair growth takes almost a year.
- Manage stress as it impacts overall hair growth.
Don’ts
- Focus on your rest for mind and body.
- As hair growth varies, avoid comparing your journey with others.
Manage Health Issues After the Transplant
- Any major health issues like kidney illnesses affect your hair growth. Get proper medications but consult your surgeon before consuming any antibiotics.
- Chronic illnesses like diabetes impacts your hair growth. After transplant the high blood sugar can damage the blood flow to your newly transplanted follicles.
- Other unrelated surgeries like orthopedic surgeries increase hormonal growth and disrupts blood supply, affecting hair growth.
Hair Transplant Side Effects to Look Out for
Temporary effects: You might experience swelling around the forehead, shock loss, minor bleeding in the transplanted areas, and redness around the scalp.
Serious Risks: Small cysts might grow if grafts are trapped beneath the skin. Hair follicles can be inflamed after the transplant. You are likely to feel numbness in the recipient area.
Warning Signs: If you feel severe pain, excessive bleeding and constant redness that is not cured by medication, consult your surgeon.
In Summation
Hair transplant recovery involves stages of shedding, dormant and growth phases; expect slow but certain results in 6 months with less to no side effects.
Ready to Restore Your Confidence With a Hair Transplant?
If you are looking for a hair transplant in Gatineau and Montreal, visit our website and check out all hair transplant options and select one that suits your needs.
