FUE hair transplant recovery: A week-by-week guide

If you have an FUE hair transplant coming up, you might be wondering what recovery will look like. From those first healing days to seeing your final results, knowing what’s ahead will help make things more manageable. This guide breaks down the recovery process step-by-step so you know what to expect going forward.

And if you’re considering a hair transplant in Manchester, get in touch with us today for a consultation and personalised advice.

Key Takeaways

• On the day of your FUE hair transplant
• Days 1-3: Initial recovery period
• Days 4-10: Healing and shedding
• Weeks 2-4: Shedding and settling
• Months 1-3: The dormant phase
• Months 4-6: Visible growth begins
• Months 7-12: Full results take shape

 

On the day of your FUE hair transplant

Your recovery journey starts the moment your procedure is complete. Here’s what you can expect and what to do on the day of surgery.

What to expect

• The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic for maximum comfort.
• Slight redness and swelling around the donor and recipient areas are normal.

What to do

• Rest as much as possible and avoid touching the treated areas.
• Follow your surgeon’s detailed aftercare instructions for the best results.

 

Days 1-3: Initial recovery period

The first few days after your procedure are key for healing. During this time, the grafts begin to settle and scabbing forms around the transplant areas.

What to expect

• Scabs form around the grafts, and mild swelling or redness may persist.
• Some patients experience minor itching or tenderness.

What to do

• Sleep with your head elevated using a neck pillow.
• Use prescribed medications to manage discomfort or swelling.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activities.

 

Days 4-10: Healing and shedding

By the end of the first week, you will notice more signs of healing. Scabs fall off, and swelling and redness continue to fade.

What to expect

• Swelling reduces, and scabs start to fall off naturally.
• Transplanted hair may begin to shed – this is completely normal.

What to do

• Begin gentle washing to remove scabs; your surgeon will advise you best on how to do this.
• Avoid rubbing, scratching, or towel-drying the scalp.

 

Weeks 2-4: Shedding and settling

During this time, your scalp starts to settle into its natural state. This is also when shedding begins – don’t worry, this is a completely normal part of the hair transplant process.

What to expect

• Most transplanted hairs will shed as part of the natural growth cycle.
• The scalp will look similar to how it did before the transplant

What to do

• Just be patient – shedding is a sign that the follicles are preparing for new growth.
• Avoid harsh styling or products

 

Ready for your hair transplant in Manchester?

If you’re thinking about getting a hair transplant in Manchester, Skin Medical is here for you. From your initial consultation to the recovery period, we’ve got your back with expert advice and personalised aftercare plans so you can get that confident feeling back. Book your hair transplant consultation today!

Months 1-3: The dormant phase

By the one-month mark, your scalp will have fully healed, and the follicles will be resting. While there’s little visible growth, this stage sets the foundation for what’s to come.

What to expect

• Transplanted follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) – little to no visible growth until month 3.

What to do

• Continue with any prescribed hair care products.
• Attend your follow-up appointment to monitor progress and ask any questions.

 

Months 4-6: Visible growth begins

This is when the first noticeable results appear, it only gets better from here!

What to expect

• Fine, thin hairs start to emerge, gradually improving density.
• Texture and thickness improve steadily.

What to do

• Stick to a healthy diet and avoid stress – this can impact hair health.
• Use recommended styling techniques to improve the appearance of new growth.

 

Months 7-12: Full results take shape

The final stretch of your recovery journey brings some amazing, fully matured results.

What to expect

• Hair becomes thicker and denser and blends seamlessly with existing hair.
• Full results are typically visible by 12 months.

What to do

• Enjoy styling your new hair however you like.
• Attend your final follow-up appointment to evaluate the results.

 

FAQs about FUE hair transplant recovery

How long after a hair transplant can I shower normally?

By day 2-3, you can shower carefully, avoiding direct water pressure on the grafts.

How to hide a hair transplant?

You can wear a loose-fitting hat after day 7 to conceal the treated areas.

Can grafts dislodge after 7 days?

By day 7, grafts are secure, but you should still handle the area with care.

Can I sleep normally 7 days after a hair transplant?

By day 3-4, you should be able to sleep more comfortably.

Can I wear a cap 7 days after hair transplant?

You can start wearing a cap around day 7, but it must be loose-fitting to avoid disturbing your grafts.

Is hair transplant noticeable after 2 weeks?

Most redness and scabbing should be gone or less noticeable by this point.

 

Begin your hair restoration journey with Skin Medical today!

Understanding the recovery timeline for your FUE hair transplant can make all the difference in your confidence and expectations. At Skin Medical, we’re with you every step of the way, providing expert care and advice to help you get the best possible results.

Book your consultation today and see how our FUE hair transplants in Manchester can give you natural, lasting results you’ll love.