Short and Long-Term Aftercare Following a Hair Transplant at My Hair Clinics in Birmingham

Hair transplantation is a meticulous surgical procedure that requires precise aftercare to ensure the highest survival rate of transplanted grafts. At My Hair Clinics in Birmingham, we place strong emphasis on evidence-based postoperative care protocols. Proper aftercare affects not only the aesthetic result but also the physiological integration of the grafts. In this article, I outline the critical short-term and long-term considerations that guide our clinical recommendations. This is written from a medical standpoint, referencing peer-reviewed data where appropriate.

First 72 Hours – Protecting the Recipient and Donor Areas

The immediate postoperative window is vital. Each follicular unit must form a stable connection with the scalp’s blood supply. Any trauma, desiccation, or infection can compromise this.

We advise patients to:

• Sleep at a 45-degree incline for three nights to reduce periorbital and frontal oedema. This has been validated in postoperative plastic surgery recovery protocols and reduces capillary leakage.

• Avoid touching or washing the area in the first 48 hours. Even minor friction may dislodge grafts that have not yet vascularised.

• Apply sterile saline every 30–60 minutes while awake to maintain moisture across the graft interface. This reduces scab formation and supports epithelial regeneration.

• Take any prescribed oral antibiotics, typically a short course of amoxicillin-clavulanate or doxycycline, depending on allergy status, to reduce the risk of folliculitis or donor site infection. A systematic review supports prophylactic antibiotic use in hair transplantation with a reduced infection rate.

H2: Days 3 to 14 – Epithelial Closure and Scab Shedding

At this stage, revascularisation of the grafts begins. Patients are permitted to wash their hair gently using a pH-neutral shampoo. The scalp should be bathed by pouring water, not direct shower jets.

Crusting will typically form around each graft. These scabs should fall off naturally between days 7 and 12. Forcing them off can lead to follicle loss or scarring. We recommend continued saline sprays 3–4 times daily until all scabs have shed.

Physical activity should remain limited. Exercise-induced vasodilation and sweating can raise scalp temperature, increase sebum secretion, and promote bacterial growth. Patients should avoid steam rooms, sunbeds, and UV exposure altogether.

The One to Three-Month Period – Telogen Shedding and Dormancy

Between weeks 3 and 8, many patients experience shedding of the transplanted hairs. This phenomenon is well documented and is referred to as “telogen effluvium” induced by surgical shock. A paper published in International Journal of Trichology describes the typical growth and shedding cycle post-transplantation and confirms that this is a normal physiological phase.

At this stage, there is no visible hair growth, and follicles enter a resting phase. Patients are often concerned, but reassurance and close follow-up are critical. We advise against the use of styling products, as alcohol-based sprays can irritate the healing dermis.

Month 4 to Month 12 – Active Growth Phase

From month four onwards, patients begin to see new growth. Hairs may initially appear thin, curled, or lighter in colour. This improves with time. Hair grows at approximately 1–1.5cm per month, and full density results are typically seen by 12 months.

Patients are reviewed at three-month intervals at My Hair UK. Photographic tracking and dermatoscopic evaluation allow us to assess follicle survival and growth patterns. At this stage, we may discuss the potential role of oral or topical finasteride, especially if native hair loss continues. A meta-analysis confirms its efficacy in androgenetic alopecia management with minimal systemic side effects.

We do not prescribe minoxidil at My Hair UK.

Ongoing Long-Term Care

Long-term graft survival depends on scalp health and the stability of surrounding hair. Nutritional support is also critical. Iron, vitamin D, and biotin levels should be within normal range, particularly in patients with telogen effluvium or diffuse thinning.

We also recommend:

• Annual reviews to monitor for signs of retrograde alopecia or thinning in new zones.

• Trichoscopy if patients report new shedding.

• Avoidance of scalp trauma from helmets, headgear, or traction.

Hair Transplant Prices at My Hair UK Birmingham

Our pricing structure reflects the number of grafts needed. At My Hair UK for Birmingham patients:

• 1,000 grafts typically cost £2,899

• 1,500 grafts are priced at £3,299

• 2,000 grafts at £3,699

• 3,000 grafts at £4,499

• 3,500 grafts at £4,899

These are fixed prices, inclusive of preoperative consultation, surgeon fees, and full postoperative care. Our clinic does not charge per hair or offer gimmicks. The price covers your full surgical day, all medications, and post-op support.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will my new hair grow?
Expect visible new growth by 4–5 months, with full results at 12–14 months.

What is the success rate?
Our observed graft survival is above 90%. Results vary with scalp quality, healing, and patient adherence to aftercare.

Can I go back to the gym?
We allow light gym activity after 14 days. Heavy lifting and cardio can resume after 21–28 days.

Is it normal to feel numbness?
Yes. Temporary hypoesthesia in the donor or recipient site is common and usually resolves by 6–12 weeks.

Do I need to use medication after the transplant?
Not always. Some patients choose to take oral finasteride to stabilise ongoing loss. We discuss this during your review.

For more personalised aftercare guidance or to book a consultation in Birmingham, contact our surgical team directly. Our approach is tailored, clinical, and backed by evidence. Your recovery deserves that level of care.