Hair transplant has become one of the most effective treatments for baldness and hair loss. Surgery is a necessary first step, but the true change occurs gradually when the transplanted hair begins to grow. Although shedding and slow progress in the first few months are common causes of anxiety in patients, this is all a normal part of the hair growth cycle.
It’s critical to understand the hair growth cycle and what to expect following surgery in order to fully understand the effects of a transplant.
The Basics of Hair Growth
1. Anagen
This is the active stage of hair development, known as the growth phase. It typically lasts between two and seven years, depending on factors such as genetics, age, and overall health. At any given time, about 85 to 90 percent of your hair is in this phase. During this period, hair grows at a rate of approximately 1 to 1.5 centimeters per month.
2. Catagen (Transition)
The hair growth transitional phase is short, lasting approximately two to three weeks. In this period, the hair follicle becomes smaller and separates from the blood supply. This stage is present in only 1 to 2 percent of hair at any given time.
3. Telogen (Resting)
For roughly three to four months, the hair is inactive during the resting phase before falling out to make place for new hair development. At any given moment, between 10 and 15 percent of hair is at this stage. Following this stage, new hair starts to grow in place of the old, and the hair development cycle restarts.
How a Hair Transplant impacts the Hair Growth Cycle
Hair follicles maintain their genetic resistance to hair loss when they are transplanted from the donor area (often the back or sides of the scalp) to the recipient area. They require time, though, to get used to and relax into the new environment. What usually occurs following a hair transplant is shown in the following timeline:
• Weeks 1-4
Within two to four weeks of the surgery, newly transplanted hairs usually start falling out. This is called shock loss, and it is quite normal. The hair follicles beneath the skin are still alive, despite the fact that many patients may panic at this point, thinking the transplant has failed. In order for new hair to grow and emerge, this shedding is an essential step in the process.
• Months 1-3 (Dormant or patchy phase)
During the resting (telogen)phase, follicles do not produce any visible hair, and the scalp may not look any different than it did before surgery. Although it is a critical phase of the healing process, patients frequently feel depressed at this point. Under the scalp, the follicles are actively getting ready to go back into growth.
• Months 4-6 (Early growth stage)
Due to temporary follicular shock, tiny, fine, and thin hairs start to grow and initially seem airy or curled. These hair strands gradually get thicker and stronger over the next few months. Patients begin to see noticeable improvements in their hair growth at this point.
• 6-9 months (Noticeable growth)
The hair gets darker and denser, which improves coverage significantly and gives the scalp a fuller appearance. About 60–70% of the finished results are usually visible at this point. Patients frequently start to feel more confident and may start getting remarks on how much better they look.
• Months 10-12 (Final results)
The hair grows to its maximum capacity, normalizing in density, thickness, and texture while integrating in perfectly with the natural hair. At this point, the transplanted hair follicles are resistant to hair loss, therefore the results are regarded as permanent.
Tips to Support Health Hair Growth After Transplant
To get the greatest benefit out of your results, keep to following best practices:
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: It’s critical that you conform to your surgeon’s recommendations for proper cleaning, medication, and scalp care.
- For better hair development, eat a balanced diet that includes iron, zinc, vitamin D, protein, and biotin.
- Maintain Hydration: Proper hydration promotes healthy scalp function.
- Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco, as these substances can delay growth by reducing the blood flow to follicle
- Treat Your Scalp Gently: Refrain from touching or itching the transplanted region.
- Stay Patient: Keep in mind that the process of natural hair growth is gradual.
Conclusion:
A hair transplant can be life-changing for people who have suffered hair loss, but it takes time and knowledge of the hair growth cycle. In order to achieve thicker, permanent hair, the stages of hair loss, dormancy, and progressive regrowth are all normal. Long-lasting, natural-looking results are possible provided you stay patient, follow your surgeon’s recommendations, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you are thinking about Hair Transplant, please reach out at Aestheticure. Our best expertise and experienced surgeons will provide you with the best treatment and proper care.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, feel free to Contact Us!
