Caring for a 3000 Graft Hair Transplant: Medical Aftercare and Growth Expectations

A 3000 graft hair transplant typically covers moderate to extensive thinning across the frontal hairline, mid-scalp, or crown. It involves the relocation of approximately 6,000 individual hairs using Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), a minimally invasive technique that removes each follicle from the donor zone—usually the occipital scalp—without the need for linear incisions. The procedure requires careful planning of recipient site angles, graft distribution, and density to achieve a natural aesthetic result.

At My Hair UK, the price of this procedure is £4,499. The fee reflects not only the graft quantity, but the full-day surgical booking, the use of fine micro-punches, and long-term medical follow-up. While cost can vary between providers, it’s essential to understand that the clinical outcome depends just as much on post-operative behaviour as it does on intraoperative precision.

First Week: Graft Stability and Wound Management

The first seven days following an FUE transplant are the most important for ensuring graft survival. Each follicular unit relies on angiogenesis to re-establish vascular connections in the recipient zone. Disruption during this period—due to mechanical trauma, inflammation, or infection—can lead to irreversible graft loss.

Saline misting begins a few hours after the operation and continues throughout the first five days. This helps prevent crust formation and supports hydration of the graft sites. Clinical data from Avci et al. (2013) shows that moist wound healing significantly improves epithelialisation and patient comfort in hair transplant wounds.

A short course of antibiotics is sometimes given prophylactically, especially in high-density cases where grafts are placed closely together. We advise against the use of topical antiseptics such as iodine or chlorhexidine on the graft area, as these may be cytotoxic to regenerating tissue.

Patients must avoid direct contact with the graft zone. Hats, pillows, and hands are all potential sources of mechanical pressure. Sleep in a reclined position, ideally at 30–45 degrees, and avoid touching the hairline.

Managing Oedema and Swelling

Periorbital swelling may begin on day two and peak by day four. This is a normal response to the tumescent anaesthetic fluid used during surgery, which migrates downwards due to gravity. Oral corticosteroids—usually dexamethasone or prednisolone—are sometimes prescribed in tapering doses to reduce this inflammation. These are reserved for patients with high risk of oedema or significant discomfort.

Cool compresses may be used gently on the forehead, but should never come into contact with the grafts. Analgesia is usually limited to paracetamol. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen may interfere with platelet aggregation, so we use them sparingly in the early healing phase.

Second to Fourth Week: Shedding and Telogen Shift

Most transplanted hairs will shed between days 14 and 28 due to trauma-induced telogen effluvium. This is an expected part of the process and does not indicate failure of the transplant. The follicle remains embedded in the dermis and will re-enter the anagen phase in the months that follow.

It’s essential to manage expectations during this stage. Many patients express anxiety when the newly grown hairs fall out, mistaking it for graft rejection. In fact, a systematic review by Sharma et al. (2021) confirmed that up to 90% of transplanted follicles undergo this temporary shedding before re-growth begins.

During this time, it’s safe to begin using gentle shampoo under running water. Light fingertip contact is permitted after day 10, provided there is no scabbing or crusting. Scabs should never be picked, as this can remove the grafts. Most scabbing should naturally flake away within two weeks if the scalp is kept hydrated.

Months 2–6: New Growth and Density Development

New hair growth typically begins at 10 to 12 weeks, although the rate varies between individuals. The hairs emerge thin, translucent, and irregular. Over time, they increase in thickness, texture, and pigmentation. Full density is rarely seen before 10 months post-procedure.

It is not uncommon to see patchy or uneven growth in the first six months. This reflects variations in follicular cycling and local vascular support. At My Hair UK, we document progress using high-resolution photography and trichoscopy to track improvements in density and shaft calibre.

During this phase, we also assess whether there’s progression of native hair loss. In some patients—especially men in their 30s and 40s—further loss can occur adjacent to the transplanted zones. Stabilisation strategies such as topical finasteride or oral 5-alpha reductase inhibitors may be discussed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient's family history, sexual health, and long-term goals.

Return to Physical and Cosmetic Activities

Exercise can usually resume after 10 days, though heavy weightlifting, saunas, and contact sports should be avoided until day 21 to prevent increased scalp pressure or sweating. Hair styling can begin after one month, though we advise against tight hairstyles, gels, or sprays for at least six weeks.

Hair colouring, bleaching, or chemical straightening should be postponed for three to four months. These products can damage the new hair shafts and increase scalp irritation. Use of a wide-toothed comb is encouraged to reduce traction on delicate grafts.

Patients should protect the scalp from UV radiation for at least 3 months by wearing a loose hat or applying SPF 30 or higher. Sunburn to the graft zone can permanently damage regenerating follicles.

Follow-Up and Assessing Final Results

We assess our 3000 graft patients at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and again at 12 months. Clinical photography, dermoscopy, and digital density mapping allow for objective comparison over time. In rare cases, we may detect signs of graft failure or scarring, which require further evaluation.

Some patients may request a second transplant if additional density is desired or if hair loss progresses in untreated areas. Donor area capacity, scalp laxity, and hair calibre all influence whether a repeat FUE is possible. Repeat sessions are typically spaced at least 12 months apart to allow full healing and vascular recovery.

The Medical Value of Proper Aftercare

A 3000 graft hair transplant is both a surgical procedure and a regenerative process. The upfront cost of £4,499 at My Hair UK includes not only the procedure itself, but also comprehensive aftercare and review. While price comparisons with clinics abroad are common, many overlook the absence of structured follow-up or accessible post-operative support.

Patients who follow clinical guidance in the first few weeks show higher graft retention and fewer complications. Evidence supports that meticulous aftercare—from wound hygiene to UV protection—can influence long-term follicular survival and aesthetic outcome. A retrospective cohort study by Kim et al. (2022) involving over 700 FUE patients showed that adherence to medical aftercare improved patient satisfaction scores by over 30% .

Hair transplant surgery does not end when you leave the operating chair. It’s a partnership between patient and clinic over 12 months of healing and growth. The best results come when patients treat their transplant not just as a cosmetic enhancement, but as a grafted organ needing protection, nourishment, and time.

FAQ

How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost in the UK?

At My Hair UK, a 3000 graft FUE hair transplant currently costs £4,499. This includes all surgical, medical, and post-operative care. While some clinics offer cheaper prices abroad, many do not provide structured aftercare or medical review in the months following surgery. This can affect long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction.