The first month following a hair transplant is often filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. Understanding the normal healing timeline and recognising signs that may require medical attention can help set realistic expectations. If you live in Liverpool and are considering hair restoration, it’s essential to know what the first four weeks involve from a clinical point of view.
In the first few days after your procedure, the scalp may feel tender and swollen. You might notice redness or minor crusting around each graft. This is part of the normal inflammatory response following follicular unit excision (FUE). Your surgeon will usually advise you to keep your head elevated while sleeping, avoid touching the grafts, and apply a prescribed saline spray to prevent infection and keep the area clean.
By days 5 to 7, most patients can begin washing their hair more thoroughly, though still using gentle motions without scrubbing. It’s common to see scabs forming around each transplanted graft—these typically begin to fall away naturally by the end of week two. Forcefully removing these scabs can dislodge the grafts and compromise the result, so patience is essential.
Some patients report an itchy sensation during this time, which can be managed with a mild steroid lotion or antihistamines as recommended by the clinic. Activities such as going to the gym, swimming, or wearing hats should be avoided until approved by your surgeon, usually around two weeks post-surgery.
Towards the third and fourth week, a significant number of the newly transplanted hairs begin to shed. This can be distressing, but it is completely normal and medically expected. This temporary shedding is referred to as “shock loss” and occurs as the follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase. It does not mean the grafts have failed.
Studies on hair transplant physiology confirm this phase is a routine part of the cycle, and regrowth typically begins after the third month. The skin on the scalp may appear smooth and inactive during this time, which can lead to doubts. It is important to remember that the follicles are alive and preparing for the next growth cycle beneath the surface.
While most recoveries are uneventful, it's important to monitor for any abnormal symptoms. Persistent redness, heat, or swelling beyond the first week may indicate infection. Unusual pain, especially if it worsens rather than improves, should also be reported. If you notice any yellow discharge or pustules, this may suggest folliculitis or another skin infection and should be assessed promptly.
Poor graft survival or scarring is rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced team using modern FUE techniques. That said, early detection of complications allows for prompt management and better outcomes.
The average cost of a hair transplant in the UK ranges between £4,000 and £7,000. At My Hair UK, the price for up to 1,000 grafts (around 2,000 hairs) is £2,899. For more extensive procedures, such as 3,000 grafts, the cost is £4,499. These are fixed rates with no hidden fees, which makes planning easier for patients.
Understanding what you’re paying for—surgical time, graft quality, technician experience, and aftercare support—is just as important as the price itself. Patients in Liverpool often find the pricing at My Hair UK to be among the most transparent and competitive in the country.
Before booking your hair transplant, it's wise to visit your local GP for a general health check-up. Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can affect wound healing and graft success. A GP can also review any medications you're taking that might need adjustment before surgery.
If you’re based in Liverpool, the following NHS GP surgeries are currently accepting new patients:
These surgeries can provide routine blood tests, ECGs, and other preoperative screenings if needed.
Your first month after hair restoration surgery is largely about healing. While it’s tempting to focus on early growth, most of the visible progress will come later. The main goals during this phase are to:
Understanding this timeline helps you avoid unnecessary worry. If you remain uncertain at any stage, speak to your clinic or consult a GP. Patience and careful aftercare during this first month will contribute greatly to the success of your final result.
