My Hair birmingham

The First Few Days: Initial Healing and Recovery

The first six months after an FUE hair transplant involve several distinct stages. At My Hair UK in Birmingham, we guide patients through every phase with medical follow-up and a dedicated aftercare system. During the first few days, your scalp will appear red with tiny scabs forming around each graft. These are part of the natural inflammatory response. By day three, you might notice swelling around the forehead and eyes, especially if a large number of grafts were transplanted. This usually resolves by day five.

The donor area will feel slightly sore, though the absence of sutures means discomfort is minimal. You’ll begin gentle washing on day four, following specific instructions given by the clinic. Avoid rubbing or scratching the area. The scabs will start to fall away by day seven to ten. Many patients return to desk-based work after 3–5 days, while physical activity should be avoided for at least ten.

Week 2 to Week 4: Shedding Phase and Resting Period

Between weeks two and four, most transplanted hairs enter a resting phase and begin to shed. This stage, known as telogen effluvium, is often misunderstood. The grafts remain intact beneath the scalp, but the visible hair shafts fall out. Patients frequently report concern that the transplant has failed—this is not the case. Shedding is a standard part of the process and reflects the grafts preparing to re-enter the growth phase.

Some patients also experience temporary shock loss around the donor or recipient area. This is a short-term reaction and does not affect the long-term outcome. Avoid shaving the recipient area or applying any topical products not approved by your My Hair UK doctor. Patience is key during this quiet phase.

Months 2 to 3: Minimal Change on the Surface

Between the second and third month, your scalp will look mostly healed, but there may be little visible improvement in hair density. This plateau can feel disheartening. It is also the time when some patients experience minor folliculitis, which presents as small pimples around the grafts. This is usually benign and treated easily with warm compresses or topical antibiotics prescribed by the clinic.

At this stage, we remind you that hair growth is not linear. The follicular units are preparing to produce new hair shafts, but most remain dormant below the skin. Frustration is common during this phase, especially as expectations build. Consistent aftercare, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking or alcohol will support recovery.

Months 4 to 5: Early Visible Growth Begins

Around month four, new hairs begin to break through the scalp. These hairs are often thin, wispy, and lighter in colour than your native hair. This is entirely normal. Over the next few weeks, these early hairs will thicken, darken, and mature. Not all grafts will grow at the same time. Some areas may appear patchy or delayed in comparison to others.

Patients often describe this period as the first real sign that the transplant is working. You may choose to start trimming the hair, but avoid close shaving or any form of chemical treatment. Continue to follow the My Hair UK washing routine. You may still experience some itching or minor dryness as the new follicles activate.

Month 6: Noticeable Improvement in Density and Shape

By the six-month mark, most patients see around 50–60% of their final result. The hairline starts to take shape. Density increases. The new growth blends more naturally with your existing hair. Some individuals notice more growth than others depending on age, genetics, graft survival, and overall health. At this point, we often carry out an in-clinic review or virtual assessment to document progress.

Your grafts are now well established. Hair can be washed, cut, and styled as usual. Avoid chemical treatments like colouring or perming until the one-year point unless specifically cleared by your doctor. If you have patchy areas or delayed growth, this does not suggest failure. Many grafts take longer to enter the anagen (growth) phase and will continue to improve over the next six months.

We also offer optional PRP (platelet-rich plasma) sessions at this point to help stimulate additional growth if appropriate.

Cost Transparency for Birmingham Patients

At My Hair UK in Birmingham, we offer fixed, all-inclusive pricing based on the number of grafts: https://www.my-hair.uk/transplant-cost/birmingham. For example, 1,500 grafts cost £3,299, 2,000 grafts cost £3,699, and 3,000 grafts cost £4,499. This includes your consultation, surgery, anaesthesia, medications, and six-month aftercare support. There are no hidden fees. Our Birmingham clinic supports patients with both in-person and remote reviews throughout the first year.

Scientific Support for the Growth Timeline

Research shows that hair follicles transplanted via FUE typically follow a predictable growth cycle. A study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that visible growth begins around the third month, with meaningful improvement by month six and full results developing by 12 to 18 months (PubMed ID: 29552253). Another study in the International Journal of Trichology reinforces the role of early post-operative care in ensuring high graft survival and improved cosmetic outcome (PubMed ID: 24350010).

These findings align with our clinical experience at My Hair UK. Patients are carefully monitored at every stage and provided with clear expectations for each milestone.

H3: FAQ

How much does a hair transplant cost in Birmingham?

At My Hair UK, prices start from £2,899 for 1,000 grafts and go up to £4,899 for 3,500 grafts. The cost includes all aftercare, consultations, and follow-up.

Is it normal to lose hair after the transplant?

Yes. Most transplanted hairs shed in the first few weeks. Growth resumes from month three onwards. This is part of the hair cycle and not a sign of failure.

When will I see results?

Initial signs of growth appear around month four. By six months, you can expect around 50–60% of your final result, with continued improvement up to 12 months or more.

Can I colour or shave my hair?

Avoid chemical treatments before 12 months unless approved by your doctor. You can begin trimming or cutting transplanted hair after six months.

Will I need a second procedure?

Some patients may benefit from a second session for added density, particularly in advanced cases. We review your outcome at 6 and 12 months to guide this decision.