Transplanted Hair Growth Rate and Maintenance

When patients consider a hair transplant, one of the most common questions is: how does transplanted hair grow compared to existing native hair? And equally important: what kind of hair care and post‑operative regimen is needed to protect those grafts? Below, we’ll explore how transplanted hair behaves, how it differs from natural hair, and the best hair treatment and post-op care practices to support healthy outcomes.

Transplanted Hair vs Existing Hair: Growth Differences

After a hair transplant, the transplanted follicles don’t immediately start producing visible hair.  

Following that, new growth often begins around 3 to 4 months post‑surgery. Early new hairs tend to be thin, fine, and lighter in color. Over time (by months 6 to 9 and onward), they thicken, darken, and more closely resemble native hair in texture and quality. By 12 to 18 months, many patients see the full results of density, length, and maturation. 

Do Transplanted Hairs Grow at the Same Rate?

Yes — in most cases, transplanted follicles maintain their original growth potential (from the donor site). That means once established, the speed of hair growth is similar to native hair. Some clinics even assert that texture, thickness, and behavior become virtually indistinguishable from existing hairs over time. 

However, 

• Right after a hair transplant, the new hairs may behave differently (finer, appearing slower to grow) until they fully mature.
• In rare cases, differences might persist due to donor site characteristics,  hair from the beard or body might retain slight differences.  

Transplanted hair initially looks different, undergoes its growth cycle, and then regrows and gradually blends in. With proper care and proper hair transplant technique, it should match the existing hair in growth rate and appearance.

Post‑Operative Care for Implanted Hair: 

Being great at surgical technique alone is not enough — hair restoration success also depends on disciplined post‑op care and maintenance. Below is a structured guideline that helps with healing in FUE hair transplant and FUT hair transplant procedures.

First 24 Hours

• Avoid any touching, rubbing, or pressure on the transplanted area.
• No hair washing or shampooing. Keep the grafts dry.  
• Sleep with your head elevated (at ~30° or more) using pillows or a reclining setup to reduce swelling.  
• Avoid bending, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity.  

Day 2 to Day 7

• Many clinics perform the first wash (often a gentle saline spray or very diluted shampoo) under supervision.  
• Use only prescribed or recommended gentle shampoos and lukewarm water. Pat dry without rubbing.  
• Continue antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed to reduce swelling and avoid infection.  
• Monitor for signs of excessive redness, worsening pain, and contact your surgeon if observed.  
• Avoid direct sunlight, swimming, heavy sweating, or hats that are too tight. 
• Avoid strenuous exercise, and gradually reintroduce light walking only.  

Weeks 2 to 3

• Scabs typically fall off around this time; continue gentle washing and avoid picking.  
• You may resume a more normal washing technique, but still avoid aggressive scrubbing, strong water pressure, or chemical treatments. 

Month 1 and Beyond

• The transplanted hair may start growing, often slowly. As months pass, hair will thicken and mature.  
• Maintain good nutrition and hydration.
• Follow up with your clinic for monitoring and possible adjunctive therapies as appropriate.

Long-Term Habits

• Once fully healed, treat transplanted hair like your native hair — regular washing, trimming, and gentle styling.
• Use quality haircare products, avoid overuse of heat, and protect from sun damage.
• Periodic checkups at your clinic help ensure graft survival, detect any issues, and guide further hair restoration steps. Therefore, regular follow-ups are very important for hair growth and maintenance.

If you’re considering a transplant or a  FUT hair transplant or FUT / FUE hybrid procedure, contact Meshkin Medical Hair Restoration.  Meshkin Medical is a trusted name performing advanced FUE hair transplants in Meshkin Medical Glendale and Newport Beach.  Dr Meshkin emphasizes both surgical precision and post‑operative hair care.  At Meshkin Medical Hair Restoration Clinic, hair treatment protocols are used to maximize graft survival and natural growth.  Dr Meshkin also recommends regular follow-ups to ensure optimal hair treatment and maintenance.

By understanding the growth timeline of transplanted vs existing hair, and committing to optimal post‑op care, you’ll give your hair implant the best chance to thrive and blend seamlessly.

To find out if you are a candidate for hair restoration or any medical hair treatments for your hair loss, call Meshkin Medical Hair Restoration in Newport Beach or Glendale at (949)219-0027 for a free consultation.