Medical Guide to Hair Transplant Aftercare in London

Recovering from a hair transplant is not a passive process. Whether you had your procedure in Harley Street or another London clinic, what you do in the weeks that follow can make or break the outcome. The aftercare process supports wound healing, graft survival, and long-term growth. As a doctor, I advise all patients to treat recovery with the same level of seriousness as the surgery itself.

Initial Recovery Phase (First 72 Hours)

The body’s inflammatory response kicks in almost immediately after follicular unit extraction (FUE). This is why swelling across the forehead, minor bleeding, and discomfort around the donor and recipient sites are typical. In the first 72 hours, the grafts are most vulnerable. Patients must avoid touching or manipulating the area. Even gentle pressure—like resting the head directly on a pillow—can disrupt the new follicles. Sleep with your head elevated on two or three pillows to reduce post-op swelling.

Many London clinics issue post-operative packs with sterile saline spray, pain relief, and detailed washing instructions. Paracetamol is usually sufficient for managing pain. Some may experience mild oozing or a tight sensation in the donor region. Antibiotic ointments are only used if signs of local infection develop.

Week 1: Cleaning, Healing and Crusting

The first hair wash typically takes place 48 hours after surgery, using tepid water and a non-medicated baby shampoo. The goal is to clean without disrupting the grafts. Never use direct water pressure on the scalp. Cup water in your hand or use a soft spray bottle.

Scabbing will form around the grafts by day 3 and often resolves by day 10. Do not pick the scabs. This phase allows for epithelialisation, where the skin forms a protective layer around each graft. If itching occurs—a common complaint—a low-potency topical corticosteroid may be used but only under medical supervision.

Patients often ask when they can return to work. Office-based jobs are usually fine within 5–7 days, provided the scalp is healing normally and sun exposure can be avoided.

Weeks 2–6: Shedding Phase

During this time, you may notice the transplanted hairs begin to fall out. This is called telogen effluvium or “shock shedding,” and it's a normal physiological response. The follicles remain intact beneath the skin and will soon re-enter the growth cycle. What’s important is not to panic—many patients mistakenly think this is hair loss when in fact, it's part of the repair process.

Avoid strenuous gym activities, hot yoga, or swimming during this period. High temperatures and moisture can inflame the scalp, increasing the risk of complications. A 2022 study published in Dermatologic Surgery explored predictors of hair graft survival and found that heat and sweat exposure in the early post-op phase negatively affected outcomes.

Months 2–6: Follicle Regrowth and Scalp Health

Around month three, new hair begins to emerge. It usually starts thin and wispy before thickening over time. By six months, up to 60–70% of the final result may be visible, though full maturity can take 12 to 15 months.

You should continue to avoid harsh styling products and stick to gentle shampoos. At this stage, it is not uncommon for patients to develop folliculitis, particularly in the donor area. This can present as painful red bumps or pustules. Topical clindamycin or a short course of oral antibiotics may be prescribed.

Routine follow-up with your surgeon or a dermatologist ensures that any issues are addressed early. Some patients benefit from adjuvant treatments like biotin, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), or topical finasteride. These should be discussed individually.

General Health Checks: Visit Your GP First

Before planning surgery for a hair transplant, I advise all patients to undergo a general health screening. This is particularly important if you have underlying conditions such as anaemia, thyroid dysfunction, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or autoimmune disorders—all of which may contribute to hair loss or poor healing.

If you’re based in London, here are three reputable NHS GP surgeries for your pre-surgery check-up:

• Kings Cross Surgery, 83 Chalton St, London NW1 1HY

• Bloomsbury Surgery, 1 Handel St, London WC1N 1PD

• Ridgmount Practice, 8 Ridgmount St, London WC1E 7AA

All of these are accessible through the NHS GP registration portal. You can also request full blood tests, including thyroid function, vitamin D, ferritin, and HbA1c levels.

Cost of Hair Transplants in London

FUE hair transplant procedures in London typically range from £3,000 to £7,000 depending on the number of grafts. My Hair UK offers a transparent pricing model, where 1,000 grafts cost around £2,899 all the way up to 3,500 grafts costing £4,899. This includes aftercare and follow-up. Always verify whether quoted costs include VAT, medications, and any possible revisions.

Cheap offers abroad may look attractive, but many of these clinics do not offer post-op care. You may save £1,000 on surgery but spend double correcting poor outcomes in the UK later.