What to Expect After a FUE Hair Transplant?

If you are considering a follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplant, you are likely wondering how long the recovery from the procedure will take and when you can expect to go back to work and other regular activities. With the FUE method, you can leave the office without bandages or compression wraps after your hair transplant. You will be able to see the shape of your new hairline right after the procedure is completed; however, the area will likely be a bit swollen.

While the final results will take several months to a year to become apparent, most patients can return to work and other regular activities within a few days to a week of their FUE transplant. The specialist will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the transplanted site and manage side effects such as swelling or discomfort.

Following your FUE hair transplant, you can expect the recovery to move through several phases:

• Immediately after – The specialist will provide you with detailed instructions regarding aftercare. You may experience some mild discomfort which may be addressed with over-the-counter pain medication or applying ice for 20 minutes at a time.

• One to two days post-procedure – You may be asked to come in for a follow-up appointment with the specialist. While some people return to work, you should avoid doing activities that can cause sweating.

• Five days post-procedure – At this point, you should be able to wash your hair gently, as the grafts are less susceptible to damage. It’s important to leave the scabs that may form at the donor or transplanted sites alone.

• One week post-procedure – After a week, any lingering swelling or redness typically subside. In most cases, you can resume normal activities at this stage of recovery, including light exercise.

• Two weeks post-procedure – If you notice some transplanted hair falling off, do not panic. This is a normal part of the hair growth cycle and may continue to occur for the next six weeks.

• One month post-procedure – At this stage, any discomfort, scabbing, and swelling should have subsided. You can return to your routine, such as working out, swimming, and washing your hair as normal.

• Three months post-procedure – It’s normal to notice acne-like spots in the transplanted site, as new hair shafts begin to emerge. While you should not pop or pick at them, you can use a warm compress to reduce inflammation.

• Six months to a year post-procedure – New, fragile hairs will emerge at this point. This is an optimal time for a follow-up visit with the specialist.

After your FUE transplant, the healthcare professional will provide you with detailed post-op care instructions. For instance, antibiotics may be prescribed for three to five days following the procedure to prevent infections and facilitate a smooth healing process. The specialist will also provide a special shampoo and foam to use on the donor and recipient areas.

You will need to avoid headwear for at least 14 days after your hair transplant. As your new follicles will be vulnerable, you should refrain from using hair dryers, applying styling products, or taking regular showers for some time to ensure desirable results.

In addition, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting, contact sports, and other forms of strenuous exercise for a month after your FUE transplant. By following the specialist’s instructions carefully, you can facilitate a successful recovery and optimal hair growth.

Typically, you will notice hair growth and thickening after six to nine months following FUE treatment. It’s essential to keep in mind that the growth rate varies from person to person; some people notice new hair follicles as early as four months post-treatment. In most cases, new hair follicles grow one to two centimeters per month and continue to thicken as time goes on.

To learn more about FUE hair transplants and whether you are a suitable candidate for this approach, schedule a visit to Keep Glowing Medical Spa in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. You can visit us at 4057 Asbury Ave, Suite 21 Tinton Falls, NJ 07753. We serve clients from Tinton Falls NJ, Little Silver NJ, Wayside NJ, Colts Neck NJ, Wall Township NJ, Ocean Township NJ, Deal NJ, West Long Branch NJ, and surrounding areas.