Transplanted hairs not shedding after 5 weeks. Is this normal?

Question

I was been told that my transplanted hairs will shed in the first month after hair transplantation. Only 10 percent of transplanted hairs have shed and others have started to grow at different rates and directions. Is this normal? Moreover i still feel etching at the transplanted area sometimes and sensation at donor area when scrubbing. Is this expected?

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Hello,
Sometimes the transplanted hair keeps growing without getting through the shedding period. Both cases are normal. Feeling sensitive in both areas is also expected.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Some patients shed while others may not - both of which are normal.  It is normal to experience some itchiness at the recipient area. If you are concerned, follow up with your surgeon.

Levent Acar, MD · Answer

Every patients are different about the shedding. It can appear up to 3 months. 
It is actually not a bad thing to don't have shedding.

Michael Vories, MD · Answer

It is not absolute that there will be post-op shedding, and we have seen patients who have had minimal shedding. In the end it does not matter, as the permanent growth will come at around the same time period whether there is shedding or not.

Sagar Patel, MD · Answer

If the hair is not falling out that is fine. I would be interested in knowing and making sure it is not because there is just crusting that remains. If so then do a soak in shampoo or just like warm water until they loosen. Hope that helps!

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Everyone has different rates at which their hair sheds and grows. Be patient with both the shedding and growth. The itching is normal and you might feel slight sensations as long as its not pain I think you’re ok. Good luck.

Eric T. Carniol, MD · Answer

Yes, it is expected that the transplanted hair will undergo a "falling out" period a few after transplant. For some, this can happen at different times. We often pre-treat patients with minoxidil to try to minimize the post-treat shedding.  The hair as it grows in will grow in at varying rates due to the different stages of the hair.In terms of itching, this means actually that you are healing! As the nerve endings regrow to their destination, they send signals back, causing an itch. Sometimes taking an antihistamine is helpful for many of my patients. I wish you success! Sincerely, Eric T. Carniol, MD

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

In some cases the follicles do not shed after a transplant but rather enter into a dormant growth state.  Regrowth will usually start after 4 to 6 months whether the follicles shed or not.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Growth of the hair that continues after the hair transplant was done is found in about 5% of patients and if these hair continue to grow, that is good

Transplanted hairs not shedding after 5 weeks. Is this normal?

Answers (9)

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