Hair Transplant After 4 Months: What To Expect

Hair transplant is a breakthrough and life-changing option for individuals experiencing hair loss, hair thinning, or bald spots. It is not just a technique; it is a transformative option for reclaiming your confidence and aesthetic appeal. Individuals who have decided to undergo hair transplantation, irrespective of any method, would often seek a realistic preview of the most likely result. In this blog, we will discuss what is likely to be expected after 4 months of hair transplant by Follicular Unit Extraction, Follicular Unit Transplant, or DMC-Golden Touch technique. One can expect hair to grow at a much faster rate with the DMC-Golden Touch technique as compared to FUT and FUE.

What to expect after 4 Months of Hair Transplant?

When it comes to experience and the likely results, it may differ from one individual to another. Some people start experiencing results within 3 months, whereas some might take more than 4 months to show promising results. However, for the average number of people, you can expect results after 4 months. During the given time frame, you can expect the shedding of grafted hair follicles due to shock. This is known as shock loss, a common side-effect of hair transplants with Follicular Hair transplants or Follicular Unit Extractions.

Now, by the end of 4 months, you can expect new hair to grow as visible results. Although the regrown hairs are short and less dense, one should remember that the procedure differs for every individual. Moreover, all the side effects associated with a hair transplant subside by then.

Furthermore, in some cases, one might not experience shock loss at all even after 4 months into the recovery period. This could be because the grafted follicles are still growing and are strong enough to withstand the shock. This is a good sign, as it proves that the follicles are implanted at the right place.

How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow After Hair Transplant?

There is a common saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day." A hair transplant is a long road to success. To experience the complete result of a hair transplant, the patient needs to wait for six to nine months. For some patients, the expected and desired results take almost 12 months. By a year, the healing is complete, and the grafted hair follicles continue to grow, giving a natural appearance. However, patients opting for DMC-Golden Touch are more likely to experience quicker results than those choosing Follicular Hair Transplant or Follicular Unit Extractions. 

Also Read: Is hair transplant the best solution for baldness?

Expected Timeline for Hair Regrowth After Hair Transplant

Here is a general overview of the expected timeline for achieving the desired results right after the hair transplant:

0-4 Months: The Dormant Period

The dormant period is the first stage of hair growth. As the transplanted follicles experience shock loss, you can experience swelling, redness, and tenderness around the targeted area or recipient area. The patient has to be extremely careful about not damaging the follicles at this stage. For the first 15 days, you might experience hair loss into the recovery period. This is part of the normal healing process. Once the shedding is complete, the next stage is the emergent period.

4-8 Months: The Emergent Period

Within 4–8 months, you will experience new hair follicles emerging from the transplanted area. There is active hair growth during this stage. Although the hair follicles at this stage are thin, there might not be growth around the crown area. In addition to that, the donor area gets completely healed by 4 months.

8-12 Months: The Maturation Period

During the maturation period, you can expect thicker hair shafts and denser hair. At this stage, about 75% to 80% of hair growth is visible. The patient can notice curved hair follicles from scarring. Moreover, the scarring also subsides with time. By 8 months into the surgery, patients can try different hairstyles.

12 Months and Beyond

By the end of one year, the patient is most likely to achieve complete outcomes of hair transplant surgery. Now,  the transplanted hair continues to grow and ascend into the hair growth cycle. 
However, there is always some room for ifs and buts. In this case, if the patient is not satisfied with the results, they can opt for undergoing another hair transplant surgery to achieve satisfactory results.

Also Read: Why is FUE Hair Transplant Trending Nowadays?

Factors Affecting Hair Transplant Results

The ultimate pursuit of unlocking the full potential benefits of hair transplant depends upon multiple factors based on an individual's unique capabilities. This includes the following factors:

• Type and Texture of Hair
• Extent of Hair Loss
• Contrast between hair and skin color
• Hair Density at the Donor Area
• Skin Elasticity     
• Follicular Unit Groupings

Aftercare of Hair Transplant Procedure

During the initial 15 days of hair transplant surgery, it is important to take great care of the transplanted hair grafts for long-lasting and effective results. Here are some postoperative guidelines to follow for aftercare of hair transplant surgery:

• Avoid lifting heavy loads.
• Avoid drinking and smoking for a few weeks or as instructed by your hair transplant surgeon.     
• Take prescribed medication as directed by your specialist. It may include antibiotics, steroids, or painkillers.
• Avoid applying harsh hair styling or hair care products. 
• Avoid any strenuous exercise or contact sports. For instance, gym, cardio, or swimming.
• Avoid direct or prolonged exposure to the sun. 
• Avoid heat or hot showers, as it may irritate your scalp or damage the hair follicles 
• Keep the area hydrated and clean. 
• Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. 
• Consume a healthy diet to support healing.
• Sleep in an elevated position to help reduce swelling.

Conclusion

Hair transplant is a boon for individuals experiencing hair loss and an ultimate tool to restore confidence and self-esteem However, it is a long road to success. You can start experiencing results after 4 months of hair transplant. It is also accompanied by certain side effects such as inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching. However, it will subside within a few weeks of surgery. You might experience hair loss caused by shock loss, a common and normal side effect. After four months, you can notice visible growth, and hair follicles continue to grow as part of a hair growth cycle. This ultimately results in permanent and natural-looking hair. However, one should always keep in mind that patience is a virtue.