Exploring the Hair Loss Journey: What to Expect

The decision to get hair transplant surgery involves a lot of information and careful consideration. One of the most important things to learn about is what the hair loss journey from now through restoration looks like. When you know what to expect every step of the way, the entire process is more comfortable and rewarding. You cannot wait to see new growth and experience a full head of hair, but you must be patient while waiting for optimum results.

1 – Healing Phase

The first stage of the hair loss journey focuses on healing from the surgical hair transplant itself. It stands to reason that the areas of the scalp where harvesting and implantation occurred will be irritated and red. You may notice swelling on your scalp, too. While current technology greatly reduces these issues, you still underwent surgery. The healing phase usually lasts a maximum of two weeks after the procedure occurs.

2 – Shedding Phase

It is important for hair transplant patients to understand that the strands attached to the relocated follicles will fall out before new hair grows. The shedding phase can last from the end of the healing phase and continue for about four months. During this time, all or most of the hair will naturally fall out as the follicles head into the normal hair growth cycle. Remember that your hair falls out all the time. The transplanted strands will do so, too. New hairs start to grow at the same time, but they will not be long, thick, or provide full coverage quite yet.

3 – Growing Phase

This is perhaps the most exciting time period in the hair loss journey. From the fifth month until the end of the first year after the transplant, your new follicles will ramp up production. In this phase, you will truly begin to understand the life-changing possibilities of the procedure. Remember that the strands will not all come in at the same time or in the same thickness. Growth may appear a bit patchy at first. It takes time to truly get an accurate look at the final result.

4 – Maturing Phase

From 12 to 18 months after the first appointment for transplantation in your hair loss journey, the follicles act just like all the others on your scalp. Your hair strands thicken and mature. The normal hair growth cycle operates naturally. Does this mean that it will take a full 18 months to get an attractive head of hair? No! Many patients experience life-changing results in 6 months or less. You will definitely see progress to overcome receding hairlines, male pattern baldness, and overall thinning before then. If there are any gaps or thin patches, you can speak with the treatment team to discuss your options.

While not every hair loss journey and restoration looks the same, it is important for patients to know about the four phases. Adjust your expectations based on scientific reality so you know what to expect for the weeks, months, and years after surgical transplantation. You will get to enjoy a new, fuller, and natural head of hair sooner than you think.