Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a highly sought-after hair transplant technique, offering a solution to those grappling with hair loss. This method involves extracting hair follicles from a donor area, which are then meticulously transplanted to the recipient site.
While FUE is famous for its precision and natural-looking results, a common concern among patients is whether the transplanted hair will fall out post-procedure. Understanding this aspect of FUE is crucial in setting realistic expectations. To get this treatment, you must consult a reliable and professional FUE hair transplant clinic in London to get the best and natural results. Let’s discuss the Fue transplant hair fall scenario in detail.
What is Fue Hair Transplant?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a hair transplant method where individual hair follicles are extracted from a donor area and transplanted to areas experiencing hair loss. This technique is minimally invasive, leaving no linear scars, and is favored for its natural-looking results. FUE is highly precise, allowing for targeted placement of hairs, and is ideal for patients seeking a less noticeable post-surgical recovery. The procedure offers a permanent solution for hair restoration, improving both hair density and appearance.
Post Fue Transplant Hair Shedding: Why does it happen?
Post Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) transplant hair shedding, often called “shock loss,” is a common and typically temporary phase of the hair transplant process. This phenomenon occurs due to several reasons:
- Trauma to Hair Follicles: The surgical process can cause temporary trauma to the transplanted follicles and the surrounding hair. This trauma may temporarily disrupt the growth cycle of the hair.
- Telogen Effluvium: The stress of the surgery can push more hairs into the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle. This can lead to increased shedding, both in the transplanted area and occasionally in other areas of the scalp.
- Shedding of Transplanted Hair: The transplanted hair follicles often shed their hair shafts within the first few weeks post-transplant. This is a normal part of the hair growth cycle and should not cause concern. The root of the hair follicle remains and will grow new hair.
- Recovery and Regrowth: After this initial shedding phase, the hair follicles recover and grow new hair. This regrowth usually starts around 3 to 4 months after the transplant. The hair will continue to thicken and mature over a year.
- Managing Expectations: Patients must understand that this shedding is a normal healing process. The final results of the transplant should be evaluated after about a year when most of the hair growth will have stabilized.
Long-Term Growth of Transplanted Hair
The long-term growth of transplanted hair following a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedure is crucial to the transplant’s success and patient satisfaction. Here’s what to expect in the long term after undergoing an FUE hair transplant:
Permanent Hair Growth: Usually, the transplanted hair follicles come from parts of the scalp (such as the back of the head) that are resistant to balding. These follicles don’t change from their original state after they are relocated, thus they will live a lifetime producing hair in the new site.
First Shedding and Regrowth: Following the transplant, the transplanted hair will shed initially, usually in the first several weeks. This is not reason for alarm; rather, it is a typical step in the process. After the surgery, three to four months later, newly transplanted follicles usually start to sprout hair.
Maturation of Hair: The new hair will grow and gradually thicken over several months. The texture and caliber of the new hair may also change during this time. The final, mature hair growth may not fully form for up to a year or longer.
Natural Results: As the transplanted hair gets old and becomes more integrated with the native hair, it produces a hairline and volume that are more realistic-looking. The surgeon’s skill in placing the follicles in a natural pattern significantly affects how natural the final result looks.
Maintenance and Care: While transplanted hair is generally permanent, patients should maintain a healthy scalp and hair care regimen to support hair health. This may include proper nutrition, avoiding harsh chemicals or styling practices, and potentially using medications or topical treatments to support hair growth.
Aging and Hair Changes: While the transplanted hair is generally permanent, natural hair density and quality changes can occur with aging. This is a normal process and affects both transplanted and non-transplanted hair.
Future Hair Loss: Patients should be aware that while transplanted hair is permanent, they may continue to experience hair loss in other areas of their scalp. This may require additional treatments or transplants to maintain a consistent hair appearance.
Care and Maintenance Post Fue Transplant
- Strictly adhere to the post-operative care guidelines provided by your surgeon.
- Avoid strenuous activities and rest adequately for the first few days post-surgery.
- Clean the transplanted area as advised, usually after 24-48 hours.
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling.
- Avoid direct sunlight or harsh environments for the first few weeks.
- Do not scratch or rub the transplanted area to prevent dislodging grafts.
- Wait for a few weeks before resuming regular exercise or heavy physical activity.
- Delay coloring or chemically treating hair for several months.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients for hair growth.
- Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor progress.
