After a hair transplant, many patients panic when they see small hairs or even tiny scabs falling out within the first few weeks. The sight can be alarming, especially after investing time and money into the procedure. However, in most cases, hair transplant grafts falling out is completely normal. The key is understanding the difference between temporary shedding and actual graft loss. Here’s what you need to know — and how to handle it calmly.
🧬 Understanding What Happens to Grafts After Surgery
Each transplanted graft contains a hair follicle and its root. During surgery, these grafts are carefully implanted into small incisions on the scalp. In the following days, the follicles enter a healing and “resting” phase known as telogen effluvium. As a natural reaction, the hair shaft (the visible part of the hair) often falls out — but the follicle beneath the skin remains alive and intact. This process is called shock loss and is part of the normal recovery timeline.
📅 When Graft Shedding Usually Occurs
Typically, graft shedding begins around the second or third week after your hair transplant and can continue for several weeks. Most patients notice that the transplanted hairs fall out between days 10 and 30 post-surgery. This can seem concerning, but it’s actually a sign that your scalp is healing properly. The follicles are preparing to grow new, stronger hairs within the next few months.
⚠️ Signs of Normal vs. Abnormal Graft Loss
It’s important to distinguish between normal hair shedding and true graft loss:
- Normal Shedding: You see short hairs falling out with tiny scabs or crusts attached, usually without pain or bleeding.
- Abnormal Graft Loss: You notice full grafts falling out (tiny bulbs at the end), persistent bleeding, or bald patches that don’t heal.
If you experience bleeding, pus, or pain at the donor or recipient sites, contact your surgeon immediately. These may indicate infection or trauma to the graft area.
💆 How to Prevent Graft Damage During Recovery
During the first two weeks, your new grafts are still fragile. Small mistakes in aftercare can increase the risk of dislodging them. Follow these essential precautions:
- Avoid Touching or Scratching: Itching is common, but scratching can pull out grafts or slow healing.
- Sleep Carefully: Keep your head elevated at a 45-degree angle to reduce swelling and prevent pressure on the transplanted area.
- Wash Gently: Use mild shampoo and follow your clinic’s instructions for rinsing. Never rub or use high water pressure.
- No Exercise or Sun Exposure: Avoid sweating, heavy activity, or direct sunlight for at least 10–14 days.
- Don’t Wear Tight Hats: Pressure from caps or helmets can disturb the healing grafts.
Proper aftercare can dramatically reduce unnecessary graft loss and ensure healthy follicle regrowth.
🌱 When Will New Hair Start to Grow?
After the shedding phase, the follicles remain dormant for several weeks. Around the 3-month mark, you’ll begin to see fine, soft hairs emerging. Between 6 and 9 months post-surgery, your hair will start to thicken and take on a natural texture. By 12 months, most patients see 80–90% of their final results.
🩺 When to Contact Your Doctor
While mild shedding is expected, you should reach out to your doctor if:
- You see visible graft roots or bulbs falling out.
- You experience persistent redness, swelling, or infection symptoms.
- Your shedding lasts longer than 8 weeks.
- You accidentally hit or scratch the transplanted area early on.
Timely communication with your surgeon ensures any potential issues are managed before they affect long-term results.
💡 Final Thoughts
Seeing grafts falling out after hair transplant surgery can be unsettling, but it’s usually a normal and temporary stage of recovery. The follicles beneath your skin are still intact and will produce new, stronger hairs in time. Patience, gentle care, and proper follow-up with your clinic will help you achieve a natural, permanent result.
Worried about your recovery? Reach out to Badge Health for expert post-operative care guidance and ongoing support to ensure every graft grows successfully.