HAIR LOSS GUIDE · THE MEN CLINICS
Shedding After a Hair Transplant
Almost every patient sheds their transplanted hair within six weeks. It is expected, it is temporary, and it is not graft failure.
Last clinically reviewed: August 2026
Between two and six weeks after surgery, most of your transplanted hairs will fall out. The follicles stay exactly where they were placed.
This catches men off guard more than any other part of the process. The hair you can see is only the shaft. The follicle beneath the skin is what was transplanted, and it survives the shed.
Why it happens
Moving a follicle interrupts its blood supply temporarily. The follicle responds by shifting into telogen, a resting phase, and releases the hair shaft it was holding. After a dormant period it re-enters anagen and produces a new shaft.
Shock loss of native hair
Some men also shed surrounding native hair, particularly hair that was already miniaturising. This is called shock loss. It is usually temporary and regrows within three to six months, though hair that was already very close to the end of its life may not return.
When to be concerned
- Shedding between weeks two and six is normal and expected
- No visible growth by month six warrants a review appointment
- Redness, pus or increasing pain at any stage needs same-week assessment
- Patchy growth at month eight is worth photographing and discussing
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Ducu Botoaca
Aesthetic & Hair Transplant Surgeon and founder of The Men Clinics, Soho, London. This page is general information and is not a substitute for a personal medical assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Is shedding a sign the transplant failed?
No. It is the expected course for the large majority of patients. The follicle remains in place and regrows from around month four.
How much will I shed?
Most or all of the transplanted hairs, plus sometimes some surrounding native hair. The scalp typically looks much as it did before surgery by week eight.
Can shedding be prevented?
Not meaningfully. It is part of the follicle's normal response to being moved. PRP is sometimes used to support the surrounding native hair and may reduce shock loss.
What if I do not shed?
A minority of patients shed very little and keep some transplanted hair growing continuously. This is also normal and is not an indicator of a better or worse outcome.
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The information on this page is general guidance and is not medical advice. It does not replace a personal consultation with a qualified clinician. Individual results vary. The Men Clinics, Soho, London.