What to Expect in the First Month After Your Hair Transplant at My Hair UK Birmingham

The first month following a hair transplant marks a transitional phase in your recovery. It’s not only about healing—it’s also about patience, awareness, and setting realistic expectations. At My Hair UK Birmingham, we prepare our patients for the entire journey, not just the day of surgery. If you're planning a transplant or you've just had one, here’s what you can expect from a clinical perspective in the first four weeks, and if you'd like to Find detailed information on hair transplants in Birmingham, then visit the website.

Week 1: Graft Protection and Wound Recovery

The immediate goal during the first 7 days is to protect the grafts and prevent complications.

By now, you may notice:

• Light crusting around each graft, which begins to shed naturally by day 5 to 7.

• Swelling on the forehead, which may shift downwards before resolving.

• Mild redness and sensitivity across both donor and recipient areas.

We advise sleeping with your head elevated, avoiding physical exertion, and resisting the urge to touch or pick at scabs. Washing can usually begin gently on day 2, following the method shown in your post-op video guide. Do not apply direct water pressure or rub the scalp. A clean fingertip or palm is safer than a showerhead.

Avoid sun exposure entirely during this period. Even short exposure can damage fragile grafts.

Many patients experience some anxiety during this week—especially as the newly placed hairs begin to fall out. This is expected. The follicles are intact beneath the skin. The shafts you see on the surface are temporary. This phase is called telogen effluvium and it happens with every successful transplant.

Week 2: Normal Shedding Phase

By the second week, the redness fades. Most crusts fall off. But shedding tends to increase. Many patients see a sharp drop in density by the end of this week. While it can be unsettling, it's a normal part of follicular cycling.

A study published in Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America outlines that up to 90% of transplanted hairs will enter the resting phase within two weeks post-op. This does not reflect a failed transplant. New growth typically begins from month 3 onwards.

You may resume low-impact activities like walking. Avoid weights, running, and saunas for the rest of the month.

Week 3: Sensory Changes and Scalp Health

Patients often report tingling or itching by the third week. This is due to early nerve regeneration and tissue remodelling. It’s not a sign of infection. Refrain from scratching.

Donor areas may feel numb or tight. This gradually settles over months. Hair in the donor zone begins to grow back normally.

Moisturising the scalp with an appropriate solution is sometimes helpful, but do not apply oils or medicated creams unless advised by your surgeon.

Continue to avoid hats unless they are loose and breathable. Helmets should still be avoided.

Week 4: Invisible Progress

By the end of the month, most external signs of surgery have resolved. You may still have mild pinkness if your skin tone is fair. The transplant sites appear empty, as shedding is near complete.

Internally, however, significant changes are underway. Angiogenesis—new blood vessel formation—supports the follicle’s transition back to the growth phase. Fibroblast activity is also increasing. These processes are not visible to the eye but are critical for future hair density.

You may return to work and social activity by now, provided your role doesn’t involve physical strain or helmet use.

We strongly recommend you attend a one-month check-up with your surgeon at My Hair UK Birmingham. This allows us to assess healing, confirm expected progress, and offer tailored advice for the coming months.

Cost Transparency

The cost of a transplant depends on the number of grafts needed. At My Hair UK Birmingham, you can expect:

• Up to 1,000 grafts (2,000 hairs): £2,899

• Up to 1,500 grafts (3,000 hairs): £3,299

• Up to 2,000 grafts (4,000 hairs): £3,699

• Up to 2,500 grafts (5,000 hairs): £4,099

• Up to 3,000 grafts (6,000 hairs): £4,499

• Up to 3,500 grafts (7,000 hairs): £4,899

Each procedure is done in a single day using the FUE technique. There are no hidden costs.

GP Health Check Before Surgery

Before undergoing a hair transplant, it's wise to visit your local GP for a routine health check. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or untreated anaemia can interfere with wound healing.

If you're in Birmingham, consider booking a consultation with:

• Stratford House Surgery – 578 Stratford Rd, Birmingham B11 4AN

• Eden Court Medical Practice – 200 Tangmere Dr, Birmingham B35 6EE

• Broadway Health Centre – Cope St, Birmingham B18 7BA

Bring your medical history and a list of current medications when you come for your hair transplant consultation. This helps us ensure your treatment is safe and tailored to your health status.

Final Word

The first month after your transplant is not about instant results. It’s about proper healing and laying the groundwork for strong, long-term growth. Every scalp heals at its own pace. Trust the process. Follow your aftercare plan. And if you have any concerns, contact your surgical team. We're here to support you—not just on day one, but throughout your hair restoration journey.