Understanding the Hair Growth Process After Transplantation: Timelines and Care

Hair transplantation is a popular option for many people suffering from hair loss who want to completely get rid of their hair loss problems. After the hair transplantation procedure, the most common concern is when the hair will start to grow and when the results will be visible. Let's take a closer look at this together.

How long does it take for hair to start growing after transplantation?

After hair transplantation, it generally takes about 4 months for the hair to start growing. Around 6 months, most of the transplanted hair follicles will have successfully taken root, and by 9 to 12 months, the hair will have grown to a certain length. However, the time may vary due to differences in individual hair quality, hair growth cycle, and growth rate.

Why doesn't the hair start growing immediately after transplantation?

After hair transplantation, it usually takes about 4 months for the hair to gradually start growing. This is because the transplanted hair follicles need time to adapt to the new environment. Hair follicles have different stages of growth, including growth phase, rest phase, regression phase, and shedding phase. Only hair follicles in the growth phase can produce new hair. The newly transplanted hair follicles may enter the regression and shedding phases faster due to environmental changes. Therefore, there may be some hair loss in the first 1 to 3 months after transplantation, but once the hair follicles enter the growth phase around the 4th month, new hair will start to grow.

Proper post-operative care to promote hair growth

Proper daily care after hair transplantation can protect the hair follicles and promote hair growth. 1. Use anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling medications as directed by your doctor to aid in the recovery of the transplantation site. 2. Keep the transplanted area dry for the first 5 days and avoid getting it wet. Avoid scratching or applying pressure to the transplanted area. 3. Avoid drinking alcohol for 1 month and smoking for 3 months after the procedure. Alcohol and nicotine can irritate the hair follicles and hinder hair growth. 4. Avoid intense physical activities for 1 month after the procedure and prioritize rest and maintaining a positive mindset. 5. Maintain a balanced diet, including foods rich in iron, vitamin A, and nutrients that nourish the hair. Examples include milk, poultry, lean meat, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid seafood and spicy foods.

Some hair loss after transplantation is normal

Some people may notice that their hair is still falling out after hair transplantation and assume that the procedure has failed. However, this is not entirely accurate. It is normal to experience some hair loss after hair transplantation. Firstly, the hair follicles need time to adapt to the new environment, which may accelerate the regression and shedding phases. Secondly, the original hair may still be shedding, but this does not affect the survival of the transplanted hair follicles. However, if the hair transplantation procedure has truly failed and the hair follicles have not successfully taken root, hair loss will continue.