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Post-Surgery Rehabilitation After a Hair Transplant at My Hair UK London Clinic

The recovery phase after a hair transplant plays a key role in determining how successful your final results will be. At the My Hair UK clinic in London, we carry out FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) procedures in a sterile, clinical setting using highly refined microsurgical tools. But once you leave the surgical theatre, your body begins a separate process—healing. This part is just as important and requires discipline, care, and clear medical guidance.

FUE involves transplanting individual follicular units from a donor area—typically the back or sides of the scalp—to thinning or balding zones. After surgery, each graft needs to form a new blood supply. During the first 48 to 72 hours, the scalp enters an inflammatory phase. A fibrin matrix forms around each unit, anchoring the grafts. By days 7 to 10, angiogenesis occurs—tiny capillaries begin feeding the follicles. These early biological processes are crucial and can be disrupted by trauma, infection, or poor aftercare.

Post-surgery, you’ll be advised to avoid washing your scalp with pressure for at least 10 days. Saline spray must be applied frequently to prevent drying and promote healing. You’ll also need to sleep upright for several nights using extra pillows to reduce swelling. Avoid touching or scratching the area, as even minor friction can disturb the delicate healing grafts. Alcohol, smoking, heavy lifting, and sweating should be avoided for a minimum of 10 to 14 days.

Swelling may appear around the forehead between days two and four. This is common and typically resolves on its own. Pain is usually mild. Most patients manage with simple paracetamol or ibuprofen. Antibiotics may be prescribed if there’s any risk of infection, especially in patients with oily or acne-prone skin. At the London clinic, you’ll receive full aftercare instructions and access to our team for any post-op queries.

Crusting usually lifts naturally by day 10. After that, most transplanted hairs will shed—a normal part of the telogen phase known as “shock loss.” This can be alarming but is expected. The hair follicles themselves remain intact. New growth begins around months three to four, with more visible coverage by month six. The final result usually settles between nine and twelve months after surgery.

Some patients feel anxious during the waiting period, especially if regrowth is slower in some regions. Hair density, shaft thickness, curl pattern, and scalp contrast can all affect how results appear. At My Hair UK London, we offer scheduled follow-ups to assess your progress, check graft survival, and provide reassurance. Trichoscopy may be used to analyse growth patterns in select cases.

The cost of your transplant will depend on the number of grafts needed. Prices at our London clinic range from £2,499 for up to 500 grafts to £4,899 for 3,500 grafts. The price includes the procedure, aftercare, and follow-up appointments. There are no hidden charges, and we only operate on one patient per day to maintain quality and focus.

Before undergoing surgery, we recommend a general health check with your GP. Conditions such as low ferritin, thyroid issues, or poor glycaemic control can slow healing. Your GP can run relevant blood tests and confirm you’re fit for elective surgery. In London, consider contacting:

Crawford Street Surgery, 95-97 Crawford St, London W1H 2HJ
Bethnal Green Health Centre, 60 Florida St, London E2 6LL
Islington Central Medical Centre, 28 Laycock St, London N1 1SW

We also encourage lifestyle adjustments. Avoid sun exposure for at least four weeks and switch to a sulphate-free, pH-balanced shampoo. Nutrition matters too. Hair growth relies on iron, protein, zinc, and biotin. Supplements may be discussed with your GP if deficiencies are suspected.

Some patients at the London clinic opt for PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections after surgery to support regrowth. While not required, PRP may stimulate vascular activity and benefit those with slow growth.

A 2021 dermatology review found that informed patients who follow structured aftercare protocols report better outcomes and satisfaction. That’s why our clinic offers clear instructions, ongoing support, and direct access to medical staff during your recovery period.

If you’re considering a hair transplant in London, start by arranging a routine check-up with your GP. Then book a consultation with the team at My Hair UK. Post-surgery rehabilitation is not passive—it requires active commitment. With the right plan and medical support, your new hair can grow successfully and last for decades.