Hair graft survival indicator?

Question

Hi, is hair growing in recipient area in first 14 days an indicator that transplanted hair grafts did survived ? Thx.

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Observing hair growth in the initial weeks following a hair transplant is a positive sign, however, this does not necessarily mean the procedure has been entirely successful.

After the transplant, the grafts integrate with the scalp and begin to receive nutrients and blood supply; the transplanted hair strands may grow slightly during this period, but these are merely the strands remaining above the skin, whereas the crucial elements the hair roots and follicles reside beneath the skin.

In particular, the vast majority of the transplanted hair falls out within the first two months a phenomenon known as "shock loss" (shedding). It is important to note that only the hair strands are shed; the hair roots remain beneath the skin and begin to sprout new growth after approximately three months.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's normal to see hair growth in the recipient area in the first two weeks after a hair transplant procedure, but it doesn't necessarily mean that all transplanted hair grafts have survived. Hair growth during this period is typically a sign of the scalp's natural healing process, and it's not uncommon for transplanted hairs to shed during the first few weeks after the procedure.

To determine the success of a hair transplant, it's best to wait at least three to four months after the procedure, as this is when the transplanted hairs should start to grow in a more permanent manner. At this point, you can expect to see new hair growth and an improvement in the overall density and appearance of the transplanted area.

Best of luck !

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It is not uncommon for newly transplanted hairs to shed in the first few weeks after a transplant. You really need to be patient and wait at least 4 months or so to see the transplanted hair begin to grow permanently. I realize you want to see immediate results but in this case, you need a lot of patience. Best wishes to you.

Dr. T

Dr. T

Sibel Ulusan, MD · Answer

Not necessarily. The growth of hair in the recipient area within the first 14 days after a hair transplant surgery does not necessarily indicate that the transplanted hair grafts have survived. During the first 2 weeks after a hair transplant, it is normal to experience some shedding of the transplanted hairs as the hair follicles enter into a resting phase before beginning to grow new hair. This process is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. The transplanted hair follicles may also temporarily stop growing due to shock and trauma from the hair transplant surgery, which can cause a delay in the growth of new hair. It typically takes several months for the transplanted hair grafts to fully grow and for the final results of the hair transplant to be visible.

Hair graft survival indicator?

Answers (4)

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