Hair Transplants: Practical Guide to Types, Costs, and Recovery
Thinking about a hair transplant? Good — but don’t rely on ads or before/after photos alone. This guide gives clear, everyday advice so you know which method fits you, how much it really costs, what recovery looks like, and the right questions to ask your surgeon.
Who’s a good candidate and which type to pick
If you’re losing hair but still have healthy donor hair at the back and sides, you might be a candidate. Age, hair loss pattern, and expectations matter. If you want minimal scarring and faster healing, FUE (follicular unit extraction) is common: tiny grafts removed one-by-one. If you need many grafts and accept a linear scar, FUT (strip method) can be more cost-effective and efficient for large balding areas.
Other factors to weigh: hair texture (curly hair often gives thicker coverage), scalp laxity, and medical issues like uncontrolled diabetes. A good surgeon will assess candidacy with photos and a scalp exam, not a quick online quiz.
Cost, timeline, and recovery — what to expect
How much? Expect a wide range: modest cases might cost a few thousand dollars, while large sessions can reach high four figures or more. Price often depends on graft count, technique (FUE usually costs more than FUT), clinic reputation, and location. Ask for price per graft and a clear graft estimate.
Timeline: most people see initial growth at 3–4 months, with noticeable results by 6 months and full results by 12–18 months. Recovery is usually quick: FUE patients often return to light activities in a few days; FUT recovery can be longer due to the strip wound.
Common side effects are swelling, mild pain, temporary numbness, and shedding of transplanted hairs (this is normal). Serious risks like infection or poor graft survival are rare when you pick an experienced team and follow aftercare instructions.
What to ask before booking: How many transplants has the surgeon done? Can I see full case histories (not just select photos)? Who does the graft placement — the surgeon or technicians? What’s the graft survival rate and follow-up plan? Is there a written guarantee or revision policy?
Choose a clinic that offers a clear plan, transparent pricing, and before/after cases for patients with similar hair type to yours. Read patient reviews but focus on long-term photos and verified testimonials.
Aftercare tip: follow the clinic’s washing and sun-exposure rules, sleep with your head elevated the first week, avoid heavy workouts for two weeks, and be patient with growth phases. If redness, fever, or increasing pain appears, contact the clinic immediately.
Want help comparing clinics or understanding graft counts? We’ve got practical checklists and questions you can use when calling clinics. Hair transplants can change how you feel — approach the decision with real info, not hype.