So you’ve finally taken the step toward restoring your hair — you’ve had your hair transplant in Islamabad, followed all the aftercare instructions, and now you’re eagerly waiting for results. But then something strange happens: the transplanted hair starts to fall out! Before you panic, know this — it’s a normal part of the hair growth cycle.
Understanding what happens to your hair after a transplant is just as important as the procedure itself. This blog breaks down the stages of hair growth following a transplant so you’ll know exactly what to expect, when to expect it, and why patience truly pays off.
The Basics: What Happens During a Hair Transplant?
Whether you underwent FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) or FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), the principle is the same: healthy hair follicles are extracted from a donor area (usually the back or sides of the head) and implanted into thinning or bald areas.
These follicles are genetically resistant to hair loss — so once they settle and start growing, they continue to behave just as they did in their original location.
But this transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Like natural hair, transplanted hair follows a cyclical growth process.
The Hair Growth Cycle: 4 Main Stages
Every single hair on your head grows in a cycle made up of four key phases:
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Anagen (Growth Phase) – Hair grows actively from the root.
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Catagen (Transition Phase) – Hair growth slows and detaches from the blood supply.
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Telogen (Resting Phase) – Hair stays in place but no longer grows.
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Exogen (Shedding Phase) – Hair falls out, making room for new hair to grow.
This same cycle occurs after a hair transplant — but in a slightly different rhythm due to the trauma and healing involved in surgery.
Week 1–3: Healing & Crusting
In the first week after your transplant:
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The scalp may feel sore or tight.
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Tiny scabs will form around the grafts.
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Redness and swelling are common but temporary.
By the end of Week 2, most patients can return to normal routines. However, do not pick at the scabs — let them fall off naturally.
Week 2–4: The “Shock Loss” Phase
This is the phase where most people start to worry — but it’s perfectly normal.
Between 2 to 4 weeks post-transplant, the transplanted hairs often fall out. This is known as shock loss, a temporary shedding triggered by the trauma of surgery. It doesn’t mean the transplant has failed — only the hair shafts fall out, not the actual follicles.
Think of it as the hair pressing the reset button.
Month 2–3: Dormancy
After shedding, the follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase. This period might seem like nothing is happening — but under the skin, the follicles are adjusting to their new location and preparing to grow.
Some patients may start seeing fine “peach fuzz” around this time, while others may not notice any change. Don’t worry — the best is yet to come.
Month 4–6: Early Growth Begins
This is the exciting phase when new hair starts to emerge from the transplanted follicles. It may be thin, wispy, and lighter in color — but it’s a sign that the anagen (growth) phase has begun.
You’ll notice:
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Gradual thickening of hair
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Increased coverage in previously bald areas
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Visible improvement month to month
At this point, you may also resume regular haircuts and grooming.
Month 6–9: Noticeable Changes
By now, the hair starts to look more natural, fuller, and denser. The texture improves, and any lingering redness or scarring on the scalp fades.
Many patients report a big confidence boost during this phase as the results become more visible. If your transplant included the hairline, this is when you’ll really start to see it take shape.
Month 9–12: Full Growth & Final Results
Between the 9- to 12-month mark, most patients see 80–90% of their final results. The hair is now:
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Thicker
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Stronger
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Fully integrated with surrounding hair
In some cases, especially with larger procedures or crown area transplants, full results may take up to 18 months.
How to Support the Growth Cycle
To make the most of your transplant and support healthy hair growth, follow these tips:
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Follow your surgeon’s aftercare advice strictly.
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Avoid harsh shampoos or chemical treatments for the first few months.
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Protect your scalp from direct sunlight.
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Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins.
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Consider PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy to stimulate growth.
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Be patient — everyone’s hair grows at a different rate.
Final Thoughts
A hair transplant is a journey, not a quick fix. While the surgery takes just a few hours, the real transformation unfolds over the next 12 months as your new hair gradually takes root and grows.
Understanding the hair growth cycle after a transplant helps set realistic expectations and ensures you stay patient and positive throughout the process. So if you’re still in the early stages and wondering where your results are — don’t worry, your new hair is just getting started.
