One of the most frequently asked questions among individuals considering hair transplant surgery is when the new hair will start to grow after the procedure. This topic is often of great interest to patients who are eager to quickly achieve a new look.
After the hair transplant surgery, the healing process begins, and the transplanted hair starts to grow during this period. However, achieving the desired results and a natural appearance typically takes approximately a year. Following the surgery, photos are often requested from patients at the third, sixth, and twelfth months to monitor their progress. The healing process can vary from person to person and may differ based on genetic factors, hair structure, age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental influences.
Within the first two weeks after hair transplant surgery, the scabs on the transplanted hair follicles fall off, marking the beginning of the healing process. During this period, the hair follicles anchor themselves in their new locations. The initial hair loss, known as "shock shedding," can lead patients to believe that the procedure was unsuccessful. However, after this phase, the hair strands that enter the permanent growth cycle grow at a rate of 1 to 2 cm per month. During the healing process, if the hair follicles have not yet fully achieved a natural appearance, it may be possible to reach quality hair roots with the shampoos, vitamins, and proper nutrition recommended by doctors.
In hair transplant procedures, the shock shedding or "temporary shedding" process represents the healing cycle required for hair strands and hair follicles to return to normal. The shock shedding process typically begins approximately one month after the hair transplant surgery and can vary from person to person.
To understand when the transplanted hair will start to grow, it is essential to observe the growth and healing process of hair follicles after hair transplant surgery. The timeline for hair growth after hair transplant surgery varies from person to person but generally follows this pattern:
- Shock shedding ends and hair follicles start to grow approximately two months after the surgery.
- Hair strands begin to grow and take on a specific shape around the fourth month after hair transplantation.
- By the sixth month, hair follicles mostly emerge, and patients experience visible hair growth.
- Beyond the eighth month, hair follicles become thicker, denser, and acquire a natural appearance. The "curly hair syndrome" that can occur after hair transplantation usually improves after the eighth month.
- After the twelfth month, hair follicles continue to grow naturally and can be made permanent with the use of recommended maintenance products and vitamins by the doctor.
Typically, transplanted hair follicles after hair transplant surgery fully return to their natural state within one year. The hair used in the transplant procedure is the patient's own, and it enters a natural growth process after one year. These hairs usually grow at a rate of approximately 1 to 2 cm per month.
An important consideration in hair transplant surgery is the donor area from which the hair follicles are taken. Hair follicles taken from the donor area, usually located at the back of the head, may not necessarily have the same thickness and density as hair follicles from other areas of the body. Therefore, it is crucial to select the donor area carefully.
In conclusion:
- The rate of hair follicle growth can vary depending on the donor area, genetic factors, environmental influences, age, and gender.
- When hair follicles from the occipital area are used, the hair grows as desired.
- Hair follicles taken from secondary areas (chest, back, arms, legs, or genitals) may vary in their compatibility with the hair structure.
To support the healthy growth of hair follicles after hair transplant surgery, it is essential to follow doctor's recommendations, avoid stress, maintain a healthy diet, and pay attention to the use of hair products. Additionally, having hair transplant procedures performed by expert doctors in official healthcare facilities is crucial as it reduces the risk of complications and ensures a safe environment.