What Happens in the First 6 Months After a Hair Transplant?

Medical Recovery and Regrowth Timeline

The six-month period after a hair transplant is often misunderstood by patients. While the procedure itself is usually completed in one day, the results develop slowly over several months. As a doctor performing FUE surgery in the UK, I see many patients concerned by the early phases of healing, especially when shedding occurs. Knowing what to expect helps reduce anxiety and improves patient satisfaction.

FUE, or Follicular Unit Extraction, involves taking individual hair follicles from a donor area and placing them in areas affected by hair loss. Most patients choose this method for its lower scarring risk and faster healing time. At My Hair UK, we perform graft counts ranging from 500 to 3,500. The cost ranges from £2,499 to £4,899 depending on the number of grafts.

First Month – Shedding and Healing

In the first few days, the scalp may appear red and swollen. Small scabs will form around each graft. These usually fall off by day 10. Around the same time, the transplanted hairs often start to shed. This is part of the normal process, known medically as telogen effluvium. It occurs because the follicles enter a resting phase after surgery.

Many patients worry that shedding means failure, but it’s expected. The hair shafts fall out, but the follicles remain under the skin. Over the next few weeks, these follicles will begin to shift into the growth phase.

Month 2 to 3 – Dormancy and Early Activity

During the second and third months, the scalp often looks similar to its pre-surgery state. Hair regrowth is minimal at this point, and some patients feel disappointed. This is referred to as the dormant phase. It’s important to be patient. Internally, the follicles are transitioning from rest into growth. Small bumps or folliculitis may appear as new hairs start to push through the skin.

By the end of month three, you might see some thin, fine hairs emerging. These are often colourless at first. The structure improves over time.

Month 4 to 6 – Visible Growth Starts

From month four, noticeable growth usually begins. Hairs thicken and start to match your natural texture. By month six, around half of the final result may be visible. Hair density becomes more even, though some areas may still lag behind. This variation is normal and relates to differences in how each graft responds to the new environment.

During this phase, follow-up reviews are helpful. We assess graft survival, hair density, and consider whether you may benefit from any supporting treatments.

Supporting the Results

Some patients choose to take medications such as finasteride to help preserve native hair and support overall growth. Research shows that finasteride can reduce DHT levels and slow further hair loss . Others may try non-drug approaches like low-level laser therapy, which has shown some promise in stimulating follicle activity.

FAQs

How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost in the UK?

At My Hair UK, prices start at £2,499 for 500 grafts and go up to £4,899 for 3,500 grafts.

When Does New Hair Start Growing?

Most patients see initial growth by month three, with stronger visible results between months four and six.

Is Shedding Normal After the Surgery?

Yes, shedding occurs in the first month and is a normal step in the recovery.