What to Expect in Your First Week After a Hair Transplant in Birmingham, UK

Understanding the Immediate Post-Operative Phase

The first week following a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant is medically significant. It’s the most sensitive period for both the transplanted grafts and the donor site. At My Hair UK in Birmingham, our approach is based on sound surgical principles, current best evidence, and continuous patient support. While every patient’s experience may vary, there are common biological responses and healing milestones you can expect in this first week. This early stage is critical to the long-term success of your transplant and requires careful post-operative care.

After the FUE procedure, you’ll leave the clinic with small scabs around each implanted graft. These scabs form naturally as part of the healing cascade, typically starting within 24 hours. The donor area, from where the grafts were taken, will appear red and may feel tender, but no sutures are involved. You may also experience mild swelling around the forehead and eyes due to anaesthetic infiltration. This is expected and usually peaks around day three, subsiding by day five. Patients should be reassured this is a standard physiological response.

Post-Operative Care and Scalp Hygiene

You’ll be given a full aftercare pack and detailed video instructions via the My Hair UK patient platform. Our clinic-specific post-op protocol includes sterile saline sprays, antibiotic ointments, and guidance on gentle washing techniques. The transplanted area must remain untouched for the first 72 hours to allow for anchoring of the grafts. From day four, you’ll begin a gentle washing routine with a pH-neutral shampoo applied with light tapping motions, not rubbing.

Avoid direct water pressure, heat, or friction on the scalp. The scabs will start to fall off gradually between day five and ten. Removing them prematurely can dislodge the grafts. Patients often ask if itching is normal – and yes, it is a sign of healing. You must not scratch the area. An oral antihistamine can be prescribed to reduce discomfort if required. Always speak to your My Hair UK doctor before using any non-prescribed products during this week.

A key point to remember is that transplanted grafts enter a resting phase called telogen effluvium. This means the hairs may shed after a few days, which is expected and not a cause for concern. The follicles remain intact beneath the skin and will re-enter the growth phase in the coming months.

Physical Activity and Recovery

We advise all patients in Birmingham and across the UK to refrain from any physical exertion during the first 7–10 days. This includes avoiding the gym, heavy lifting, running, or cycling. Physical stress increases the risk of bleeding and graft displacement. The same applies to saunas, steam rooms, and sunbeds, which should be avoided for at least two weeks. Avoid alcohol and smoking as these impair wound healing by reducing oxygenation to the tissues.

Sleep with your head elevated at a 45-degree angle for the first 3–4 nights. This helps reduce swelling and prevents accidental rubbing of the grafts on pillows. Most patients can resume light desk-based work after two or three days, though this will depend on individual swelling and comfort.

Psychological Adjustment and Appearance

The aesthetic appearance during this week may cause anxiety. Redness, scabbing, and swelling can make the area look more pronounced. You may feel self-conscious, especially if you live or work in central Birmingham. Wearing a loose surgical cap provided by the clinic is allowed after day five, but avoid tight hats or helmets. Reassure yourself that this phase is temporary and part of the normal healing course. Many patients find this the hardest part of the journey, but once the scabs shed, the scalp starts to look less inflamed.

Our clinic offers psychological support and frequent check-ins during this phase. You will have access to your surgeon and the nursing team throughout the week via our patient platform for any concerns.

Local Expertise and Price Transparency in Birmingham

At My Hair UK hair transplant clinic in Birmingham, we specialise in FUE hair transplants with pricing structured around graft number. For example, 1,500 grafts cost £3,299, while 2,000 grafts cost £3,699. This all-inclusive pricing includes your initial consultation, surgery day care, anaesthesia, post-op medications, and full aftercare support. There are no hidden fees. Patients choose us not only for surgical expertise, but also for clarity and consistency. Our Birmingham clinic offers full transparency and tailored care that extends far beyond the operating day.

Clinical References Supporting FUE Recovery

Several peer-reviewed studies support the expected healing patterns after FUE transplantation. One such study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery observed that most post-op oedema resolves by day seven and that proper post-operative care significantly improves graft survival outcomes . Another clinical guide from the International Journal of Trichology outlines the importance of early scalp hygiene in reducing folliculitis and crusting without compromising grafts .

These studies reinforce what we practise at My Hair UK. Our post-op instructions are grounded in clinical evidence and refined by experience from thousands of cases. We continue to monitor and update our protocols based on new data and patient outcomes.

FAQ

How much does a hair transplant cost in Birmingham?

At My Hair UK in Birmingham, prices start from £2,899 for 1,000 grafts and go up to £4,899 for 3,500 grafts. The price depends on the number of grafts needed and includes full aftercare, anaesthesia, and consultation. There are no hidden charges.

Can I go back to work in the first week?

Yes, if your job is not physically demanding. Most patients return to desk-based work after 2–3 days. You should avoid physical labour, heat, or sweating for the first week.

When will the scabs fall off?

Scabs typically start to fall between days five and ten. Do not pick them off. Follow the washing instructions closely to allow natural shedding.

Is it normal for the transplanted hair to fall out?

Yes. The hairs often shed in the first few weeks as part of the normal growth cycle. The follicles remain alive and will regrow in the months ahead.

Can I wear a hat?

Avoid hats for the first five days. After that, a loose-fitting surgical cap provided by the clinic is acceptable. Avoid anything that puts pressure on the grafts.