Day 1–3: Chirurgie and Immediate Post-Op

Chirurgie day typically ends in the afternoon. The scalp will be swollen and sensitive. Small scabs begin forming around each graft. Pain is minimal — most patients describe mild discomfort managed with standard analgesics. Hairmedico provides written and video aftercare instructions on departure.

The first post-operative wash is performed at the clinic on day 2 or 3. The clinical team demonstrates the correct technique to avoid dislodging grafts in the critical first week.

Days 4–14: Scabbing and Initial Healing

The scalp will appear red and scabbed. This is normal and expected. The grafts are not yet anchored — avoid any pressure, scratching or rubbing. Sleep elevated (2–3 pillows) to reduce swelling. Avoid sun exposure, swimming, strenuous exercise and alcohol for the first 2 weeks.

Scabs typically resolve between days 10–14 for both Sapphire FUE and standard FUE procedures. DHI patients typically see slightly faster scab resolution due to reduced recipient zone trauma.

Weeks 2–8: The Shedding Phase

Between weeks 2 and 6, the transplanted hairs shed. This is expected and does not indicate failure — the follicle beneath the skin is intact and will produce a new hair. The shedding phase is one of the most common causes of unnecessary patient concern. At Hairmedico, Dr. Arslan's team monitors every patient through the 12-month follow-up programme.

Important: Shedding at weeks 2–6 is the normal physiological cycle of transplanted follicles. The hair is shed — the follicle is not. Nouveau growth begins at 3–4 months.

Months 3–6: Early Growth

Nouveau hairs begin emerging at months 3–4. At month 6, approximately 40–60% of the final result is visible. The hairs may initially appear fine and slightly wavy — this normalises as they mature.

Months 6–12: Progressive Density

From month 6 onwards, density increases progressively. The hairline becomes increasingly defined. By month 10, most patients have 70–80% of their final result visible.

Months 12–14: Full Result

Full density and final naturalness is assessed at 12–14 months. This is when avant de and after photographs are taken for clinical documentation. The transplanted hair — growing from permanently DHT-resistant follicles — will continue for life. View 12+ month results from Hairmedico patients.

For detailed aftercare product guidance, the Hairmedico package includes the LOREW aftercare kit used by Dr. Arslan's patients throughout recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I return to work after a hair transplant?
Most patients return to office or desk-based work within 5–7 days. Physical labour, heavy exercise and any activity causing head sweating should be avoided for 2 weeks. The scalp appearance (redness, scabs) is typically resolved by day 12–14.
When can I exercise after a hair transplant?
Light walking is permitted from day 3. Moderate exercise (cycling, gym) can resume after 2 weeks. High-intensity training, contact sports and swimming in pools or sea should wait until week 4–6.
Is the shedding phase normal?
Yes — completely normal. Greffeed hairs shed between weeks 2–6 as the follicle enters its telogen (resting) phase. The follicle is intact beneath the skin. Nouveau growth begins at months 3–4.
When will I see the final result?
Full density is visible at 12–14 months. At 6 months, approximately 50% of the result is visible. At 9 months, approximately 70–80%. The result continues improving subtly until month 14–18 as individual hairs mature.