# Hair transplant timeline: day one to month twelve

> What happens after a hair transplant in the first 15 days and over 12 months: first wash, scabs, shock loss, new growth and the final result.

URL: https://www.roycehairlab.com/en/hair-transplant-timeline

This calendar is a general guide. Healing speed varies with age, skin type and aftercare.

## Before the procedure

- If you take blood thinners, always ask your doctor before stopping them.
- Stop smoking and alcohol a week before the procedure.
- Have a light breakfast on the day and wear a comfortable shirt that buttons at the front.

## The first 15 days

| When | What happens |
| --- | --- |
| Day 1 | The donor area is dressed. Sleep with your head slightly raised. |
| Days 2–3 | The first wash is done at the clinic; home washing is shown step by step. |
| Days 3–5 | Swelling may move down to the forehead and fades in a few days. Desk work can resume. |
| Days 7–10 | Itching may increase; do not scratch and follow the washing routine. |
| Days 10–14 | Scabs come off with regular washing. Mild redness may remain. |

## The first year

| When | What happens |
| --- | --- |
| Months 1–3 | Shock loss: some transplanted hairs shed while the roots stay. |
| Months 3–4 | New hairs start to grow, fine and sparse. |
| Months 5–8 | Hairs thicken and density increases clearly. |
| Month 12 | Most of the result is visible; check-up. |
| Months 12–18 | The crown may continue to mature. |

## Aftercare essentials

- No tight hats pressing on the area for 10 days; a loose hat is fine.
- Wait about a month for heavy sport, swimming pools, the sea and sauna.
- Protect the scalp from the sun for the first two weeks and keep using sun protection for a while.
- No smoking or alcohol for the first two weeks.
- Use supporting treatments (such as minoxidil, finasteride or PRP) only on your doctor's advice.


---

The information on this site is general and does not replace an examination or diagnosis.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results vary from person to person. You are advised to get a detailed opinion from your doctor before the procedure.