What Can I Expect After Hair Transplant Surgery?

Since hair transplantation is a surgical procedure performed by a licensed medical professional, what to expect post-operatively will depend on your adherence to the instructions given after surgery. Shortly after the procedure, small scabs will begin to form on the scalp at the graft sites. These scabs generally disappear in seven to ten days. Shampooing the hair can typically be resumed about 48 hours after surgery. 

As for appearance, the suture (stitch) used to secure the graft in the donor area is undetectable, since it is covered by your existing hair entirely, in most cases. The sutures are typically removed in a follow-up appointment about 12-14 days after surgery. Many hair treatment doctors recommend taking a couple of days off work after surgery. You can wear a baseball cap to cover the area at any time after surgery. 

Hair transplant patients should avoid strenuous physical activity for about five days after surgery. In most cases, the newly-grafted hair will shed in six to eight weeks. Then, new growth begins in about four to six months, and the length of the hair will increase approximately one-half inch per month with full density taking around 12-18 months.

What is shock loss after hair transplant surgery, and why is it a concern?

“Shock Loss” after hair transplantation is a well-known phenomenon that occurs as existing hair is lost at the recipient site. In most cases, shock loss is only temporary and is reversible. Whether or not it is entirely reversible depends on the cause or causes. The possible causes of shock loss include:

  • Existing hair being accidentally cut above the surface during the incision-making process. This is basically like a hair cut, and 100% reversible.
  • The appropriate time is not taken to preserve existing follicles while making the incisions for grafts. If a great deal of existing hair is present before the transplant and adequate care is not taken, these hair follicles can be damaged with the physician’s instruments. This direct trauma can cause permanent follicular loss.
  • Sometimes, hairs that would normally shed in the future are pulled out on the day of surgery. Hair follicles normally cycle in and out of the telogen (resting) phase. Spraying and wiping during surgery can pull out these hairs. This is completely reversible.
  • Anesthetic with vasoconstrictor injected into the scalp may also increase the amount of shock loss. This cause of shock loss is more on the theoretical side, and it’s not possible to say whether it’s permanent or temporary.

Applying minoxidil, a hair loss treatment medication, topically before and after hair transplantation can reduce the occurrence of shock loss. However, when there is full and care taken during the preparation of recipient sites, the patient should experience little to no shock loss.

As you can see, hair transplantation can be a bit involved, but the result—an attractive, free-flowing head of hair—is well worth it in many instances. To discuss the type of hair restoration treatment that is right for you, contact a hair treatment doctor and schedule a consultation with to discuss your circumstances. The sooner you get started, the sooner you will see results. Reach out today!

Resource: Hair Transplant

Dr. Robin Unger, Hair Transplant Surgeon in Manhattan