Frequently asked questions about hair transplants
Honest answers to the questions we hear most often — grouped by topic. Missing yours? Ask us directly, by phone or through the contact form.
Who is a hair transplant suitable for?
Broadly, people with stable, hereditary hair loss and a sufficiently strong donor area at the back of the head. Whether surgery makes sense in your individual case is what the medical hair analysis is for — with very active hair loss or certain scalp conditions we may recommend other measures first.
Learn more: Hair transplant overview
Are hair transplant results permanent?
Transplanted follicles come from a zone that is usually resistant to hereditary hair loss, and they generally keep that property permanently. Your remaining, non-transplanted hair can continue to thin, however — which is why we plan ahead and also discuss supportive therapies.
Learn more: Hair transplant myths
Is a hair transplant painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic; most patients find only the anaesthetic injections briefly uncomfortable. In the days afterwards you may notice tightness and tenderness, which usually responds well to simple pain relief.
How long does the procedure take?
Depending on the graft count, usually between 4 and 8 hours. It is an outpatient procedure — you go home the same day.
When will I see the final result?
Visible regrowth usually starts from months 3–4. At around 6 months the result can be judged well, and the final result typically shows at 12 months. Individual timelines vary.
Learn more: Recovery timeline: day by day
What are the risks of a hair transplant?
Like any medical procedure, a hair transplant is not entirely risk-free. Possible issues include swelling, redness, temporary numbness, minor infections or — rarely — disappointing graft survival. We discuss all risks openly during the medical consultation and check whether anything argues against surgery in your case.
Learn more: Side effects & risks
How much does a hair transplant cost?
The cost depends mainly on the number of grafts you need, the method and the complexity of the plan. After your free hair analysis you receive a binding fixed-price quote. You will find guide figures on our cost page.
Learn more: Hair transplant cost UK
Is a hair transplant available on the NHS?
Hair transplants for hereditary hair loss are classed as cosmetic surgery and are not normally available on the NHS. In particular circumstances — for example after burns or accidents — reconstructive options may be considered through other routes.
Learn more: Hair transplant cost UK
Can I pay in instalments or finance the treatment?
Yes — on request we can outline payment-by-instalment options through external finance providers during your consultation. The exact terms depend on the provider and your personal circumstances.
Learn more: Hair transplant cost UK
Does the FUE method leave visible scars?
FUE needs no scalpel incision. The dot-like extraction points usually heal so discreetly that they are not noticeable at normal hair lengths. With a very closely shaved back of the head, fine light dots may remain visible.
Learn more: FUE hair transplant
Do I need to be fully shaved for an FUE transplant?
The donor area is usually trimmed. Depending on your case, unshaven or partially shaven techniques are possible — we discuss this at the analysis, as they do not suit every starting point.
Learn more: Unshaven hair transplant
When can I go back to work after the procedure?
Many patients return to desk-based work after 2–4 days. For physically demanding jobs, strong sun exposure or dusty environments we recommend a longer break — we agree the exact timing with you individually.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide
When can I exercise again after a hair transplant?
Light activity is usually fine after about a week. Sweat-inducing sport, weight training, saunas and swimming should generally wait 3–4 weeks. Your individual aftercare plan is what counts.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide
Why do the transplanted hairs fall out at first?
So-called shedding between week 2 and month 3 is a normal part of the hair cycle: the hair shafts fall out while the transplanted roots remain in place and then produce new hair.
Learn more: Recovery timeline: day by day
How does the first hair wash after the procedure work?
The first wash usually takes place 2–3 days after the procedure — at the clinic if you wish, so you can be shown the right technique once. After that you wash to plan with a mild shampoo, without rubbing or a direct shower jet.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide