How long is the recovery after a hair transplant?

The initial recovery, which includes swelling and scabbing, takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients can go back to light, non-strenuous work within 7 to 10 days. The full visible results, with mature hair growth, are typically seen between 9 to 18 months after the transplant.

What is ‘shock loss’ and when does it happen?

Shock loss is the temporary shedding of transplanted hair that happens in the weeks following the procedure, usually between weeks 2 and 8. It's a normal and temporary part of the recovery, as the hair follicles themselves remain healthy and will regrow new hair within a few months.

When can I wash my hair after a hair transplant?

You will be instructed to wait 24-48 hours after the procedure before your first gentle wash. Your surgeon will provide a specific washing technique, often using a gentle foam or spray, to keep the area clean and prevent infection.

When can I start exercising after a hair transplant?

Light exercise, such as walking, that doesn’t cause excessive sweating or a rise in blood pressure can usually be resumed after 1-2 weeks. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that cause a lot of sweating should be avoided for at least 3-4 weeks to protect the new grafts.

How can I prevent damage to the new grafts?

To prevent graft loss, it is crucial to carefully follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions. You should avoid touching or scratching the scalp, sleep with your head elevated, and protect your scalp from direct sunlight for the first few weeks. Be extremely gentle when washing and drying your hair.

What is the difference in recovery between FUE and DHI?

Both FUE and DHI have similar recovery timelines. Because both methods involve individual follicle extraction, they do not leave a linear scar like the older FUT method, which results in faster healing and less visible trauma to the donor area.

When will I see the final results?

You will start to see early growth around 3-4 months, but the final, permanent results will be visible after 9 to 18 months. This is when the transplanted hairs have fully matured and thickened.

Hair Transplant Recovery: Guide, Timeline & Aftercare Tips

Hair Transplant Recovery: Timeline & Aftercare (Day 1–18 Months)

Understand what to expect after FUE, DHI or FUT — from swelling and scabbing to “shock loss”, washing rules, exercise, adjunct therapies (LLLT/PRP), and the point when results fully mature.

Back to desk work: ~3–7 days
Washing starts: 24–72 hours (gentle)
Exercise: light 2 weeks; full ~4 weeks
Visible growth: 3–4 months
Final results: 9–18 months

Hair Transplant Recovery Timeline: Week-by-Week

Days 1–3: swelling, crusts begin

Expect mild swelling/redness. Tiny scabs form around grafts. Use any saline sprays and medications exactly as prescribed. Sleep with your head elevated.

Days 2–7: gentle washing starts

Most surgeons allow a first gentle rinse within 24–72 hours; pat, don’t rub. By day 7 you can usually remove remaining crusts with lotion/foam as instructed.

Weeks 2–4: “shock loss” is normal

Transplanted hairs often shed; follicles remain alive and enter a rest phase. Itching can occur — do not scratch; use approved sprays/antihistamines if advised.

Months 2–4: early regrowth

Fine hairs appear; coverage looks patchy at first. Donor area typically looks normal.

Months 5–9: thickening & styling

Density and caliber improve noticeably; most people feel confident styling hair again.

Months 9–18: final results

The vast majority of the final look appears by ~12 months; slower follicles can mature up to 18 months.

Timelines vary by technique (FUE/DHI/FUT), graft count, and individual healing. Always follow your own surgeon’s protocol.

How & When to Wash After a Hair Transplant

Start gently at 24–72 hours if your clinic allows. Let water trickle; apply foam/lotion then pat shampoo — never rub the grafts.
Use a mild/“baby” shampoo initially; avoid high-pressure shower heads on recipient sites.
Soften crusts with the clinic’s lotion/foam before rinsing; aim to clear crusts by the end of week 2.
Air-dry or use cool air only. No scratching; if itchy, ask about saline spray or antihistamines.

Sleep, Hats, Work & Exercise

Sleep: Head elevated (30–45°) for ~3–5 nights to limit swelling.
Hats: Loose caps only if your team approves; avoid friction on grafts in week 1.
Work: Desk jobs: ~3–7 days; physical jobs: 10–14 days depending on sweat/strain.
Exercise: Walks/light cardio after ~10–14 days; heavy lifting/HIIT/contact sports typically after ~4 weeks, with surgeon clearance.

Medications & Adjunct Therapies

Core medications

Antibiotics/anti-inflammatories: Short course if prescribed.
Minoxidil/Finasteride: Often continued or (re)started post-op to protect native hair; timing varies by clinic (commonly after crusts clear). Discuss with your surgeon.

Adjuncts (optional)

PRP: Some clinics offer PRP to support healing and density; evidence is supportive but variable.
LLLT (laser caps/combs): Non-invasive option that may aid wound healing and graft survival; consider after medical clearance.

Your doctor’s protocol supersedes general advice; do not add therapies without approval.

What to Avoid

Direct sun/heat (sauna/steam) on the scalp for ~3–4 weeks.
Swimming (pool/sea) for ~2–3 weeks or until cleared.
Smoking and heavy alcohol — both impair healing.
Helmet use and tight headwear until your surgeon okays it.

When to Contact Your Surgeon

Severe/worsening pain, spreading redness, fever, or discharge with odor.
Painful pustules/bumps (possible folliculitis) not resolving promptly.
Unexpected trauma to grafts (e.g., impact) within the first 10–14 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is hair transplant recovery?

Most people resume desk work in 3–7 days. New growth begins around 3–4 months and the result continues to mature up to 12–18 months.

Is “shock loss” normal?

Yes. Transplanted hairs often shed in weeks 2–6; follicles stay alive and re-enter growth after a rest phase.

When can I wash my hair?

Usually within 24–72 hours using the clinic’s foam/lotion and a gentle pour-over technique. Avoid rubbing until crusts are gone (~day 7–10).

When can I exercise?

Walking/light cardio after ~10–14 days; heavy lifting and contact sports around 4 weeks unless your surgeon advises differently.

Can I wear a hat?

Only loose headwear that doesn’t touch grafts during the first week — and only if your clinic approves.

When should I restart Minoxidil or Finasteride?

Many clinics continue or restart once the scalp has healed and crusts clear. Confirm timing with your surgeon, especially if you had FUT sutures.

Are PRP or LLLT worth it?

They’re optional adjuncts. Evidence suggests potential benefits for healing/graft survival and density when used appropriately, but protocols vary.

When can I swim or use a sauna?

Commonly after 2–3 weeks (pool/sea) and 3–4 weeks (sauna/steam), once your surgeon confirms healing.

What if I see pimples or bumps?

Small folliculitis-type bumps can occur during regrowth. Avoid picking; contact your clinic for treatments if they’re painful or persistent.

Will all grafts survive?

High survival is expected with proper technique and care, but not every graft survives. Following aftercare and avoiding trauma are key.

Medical disclaimer: This page is informational and not a substitute for medical advice. Follow your surgeon’s individualized plan.

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