After Hair Transplant
Carrying out all of the necessary steps of the hair transplantation process is important for a successful and seamless hair transplant. This includes before, during and after hair transplantation. In our clinic, we perform this procedure in a skillful and professional manner. Moreover, throughout the whole process we provide our patients with high-quality service. As a patient you might want to know about the aftercare process of the hair transplantation procedure. So let’s take a look at the timeline of healing after hair transplant as well as some potential negative effects and how the aftercare process is carried out.
Potential Negative Effects After Hair Transplantation
After a hair transplant, some side effects may be experienced and there may be some complications associated with this procedure. The negative effects that can happen due to this process are often small. Moreover, these side effects mostly go away after some time.
First of all, after the hair transplant you will have a bandage on the donor site. Then we will remove this bandage the next day following the procedure. In addition, there will small scabs in the recipient area and small red holes in the donor area, which will likely heal within 15 days. Fortunately, these side effects can be reduced with proper ice applications, suitable emollient lotions or the symptomatic medicine which you will get after the surgery.
Aside from the side effects that we have just mentioned, here are some of the potential negative effects which we can expect after hair transplant operation:
- Swelling after hair transplant: A negative effect that is possible to experience after the hair transplant procedure is swelling in the scalp. Remember to stay hydrated and follow your doctor’s directions in case this happens.
- Burning sensation: A couple of days after the operation, a burning sensation may occur, especially in the donor area. In this case, it is recommended that you only apply the moisturizing lotion three or four times a day to your donor site and wait for it to be absorbed.
- Itching: A few days after the operation, itching may begin. However this is normal to feel and it is a sign of healing. Do not scratch or pick at the cultivated area. Itching may continue for several days.
- Swelling in the face and around the eyes: After hair transplantation, there may be some swelling around the eyes and in the face. In case this happens, ice applications may be helpful. A few days after the operation this side effect will likely go away.
- Other potential side effects: After hair transplant, there may be bleeding, infection, inflammation and other potential negative effects.
Timeline of Healing After Hair Transplant Operation
In case you are planning to go through the hair transplant process, you might be curious about the potential timeline of healing after the operation. Because even though this may be an important procedure that you may be wanting to go through, you would likely want to go back to your normal life as soon as possible. Here is a potential timeline of healing that we may expect after hair transplantation:
- Day 1 (The Day After Surgery)
You will come to the clinic the day after your surgery. We will change your dressings and wash your scalp.
During this follow-up appointment, we will give you a special shampoo and lotion and explain how to wash your hair for the next 15 days.
Important Notes:
✔ Do not touch the transplanted area within the first 24 hours.
✔ Keep your head fully upright; sleep on your back with your head elevated.
✔ Avoid hot or sweaty environments.
✔ Completely avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine.
✔ Apply the recommended medications and ice packs to prevent swelling.
You Can:
✔ Take light walks but avoid strenuous activities.
✔ Drink plenty of water and eat healthy.
✔ Take the medications prescribed by your doctor regularly.
Do Not:
❌ Touch or scratch the transplanted area.
❌ Let the transplanted area come into contact with any surface (pillow, hand, etc.).
❌ Take very hot or cold showers.
❌ Expose the area to direct sunlight.
- Day 3 (First Wash Day)
You will begin washing your hair yourself following the instructions provided the day after surgery. Washing will help remove scabs and speed up the healing process.
Important Notes:
✔ The first wash should be done by a doctor or specialist.
✔ Only use the special shampoo and lotion provided.
✔ Use low water pressure and do not massage the area.
You Can:
✔ Take light walks outdoors.
✔ Return more comfortably to daily activities.
Do Not:
❌ Wash or rub the area with strong water pressure.
❌ Dry your hair with a towel (gently pat dry only).
❌ Expose yourself to excessive sun or wind.
- Day 7 (Scabbing Begins)
The transplanted grafts become stronger and will not fall out by touching. However, you should still avoid scratching. Hair in the transplanted area will begin to shed within 4-5 days and will continue for 2-3 months. After that, new permanent hair will start to grow.
Important Notes:
✔ Continue using the provided lotion and shampoo to help scabs fall off.
✔ Be gentle with the transplanted area.
✔ Swelling should be completely resolved by now.
You Can:
✔ Wash your hair gently following your doctor’s instructions.
✔ Take walks outdoors while protecting yourself from the sun.
Do Not:
❌ Pick at the scabs.
❌ Do heavy exercise.
❌ Apply pressure to the transplanted area.
- Days 15-30 (Shock Loss Period Begins)
During this period, “shock hair loss” occurs. This is normal and helps trigger new follicle growth. Your appearance will improve within 2-4 weeks, and others will likely not notice you had a hair transplant.
Important Notes:
✔ Shock loss is normal during this time.
✔ Avoid stress, knowing that your hair will regrow.
✔ Continue to protect the transplanted area.
You Can:
✔ Start light exercises.
✔ Take doctor-recommended vitamins and supplements.
Do Not:
❌ Apply any chemical substances to the transplanted area.
❌ Take very hot showers.
❌ Stay under direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Months 1-6 (New Hair Growth Period)
After shedding, the hair will start to regrow, and around the 3rd month, new hair will become visible. By the 4th month, the hair growth rate increases, and by the 6th month, you will see approximately half of the final results.
Important Notes:
✔ New hair starts to grow, but full results will not yet be visible.
✔ By the 6th month, hair density begins to increase.
✔ Itching and sensitivity start to decrease.
You Can:
✔ Use light hair care oils or serums recommended by your doctor.
✔ Fully resume sports and physical activities.
✔ Stimulate blood circulation by gently massaging the scalp.
Do Not:
❌ Perform rough massages or aggressive hairstyling on the transplanted area.
❌ Use shampoos with harsh chemicals.
- Months 6-12 (Hair Strengthening and Thickening Period)
The transplanted hair continues to grow and thicken.
Important Notes:
✔ New hair becomes healthier and thicker.
✔ The healing process is now complete.
You Can:
✔ Have a normal haircut (scissors after 6 months, clippers after 9 months).
✔ Resume your regular hair care routine.
✔ Take biotin, zinc, or other hair-strengthening supplements.
Do Not:
❌ Apply aggressive heat (e.g., strong blow-drying) or frequent chemical treatments to the hair.
- Months 12-18 (Final Results Period)
Between 12-18 months, you will see the final results of your hair transplant.
Important Notes:
✔ Full results begin to show during this period.
✔ Hair continues to thicken and look more natural.
You Can:
✔ Follow your normal hair care routine.
✔ Assess the final results of your transplant.
Do Not:
❌ Neglect regular hair care (maintenance should continue).
After everything, smile with your new look!
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