Day of the Procedure
On the day of your crown hair transplant, the procedure typically takes several hours, depending on how many grafts are being transplanted. Most modern procedures use the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) method, which involves removing individual hair follicles from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the head) and transplanting them to the crown.You’ll go home the same day with instructions for aftercare, including how to sleep, how to clean the area, and which activities to avoid. Expect some mild discomfort, redness, and swelling in both the donor and transplant areas.Days 1–7: Initial Recovery
- Scabbing and Swelling: Small scabs will form around the implanted follicles. These usually fall off naturally within the first week.
- Mild Itching or Discomfort: Itching is common but avoid scratching. Gentle washing (as directed) will help soothe the scalp.
- Swelling Subsides: If you experience swelling, it typically resolves by day 4 or 5.
- Avoid Physical Activity: Heavy exercise, swimming, and sun exposure should be avoided during this period.
Weeks 2–4: Shedding Phase Begins
This stage can feel discouraging if you’re not expecting it. Around week 2, you’ll likely experience “shock loss,” where the transplanted hairs shed. This is completely normal and doesn’t mean the transplant failed. The follicles remain in place, and new growth will start from them soon.- Appearance Returns to Pre-Transplant Look: For a few weeks, it may seem like nothing has changed.
- Continue Gentle Scalp Care: Use recommended shampoos and avoid harsh treatments.
Months 2–3: Dormant Period
Patience is key during this phase. The transplanted follicles are going through a resting phase and will not be visibly growing hair yet.- No Noticeable New Growth Yet: Hair growth after a transplant takes time. Patients can become anxious when they see little to no hair growth after two to three months. This is the dormant period and it is vital for healthy hair growth.
- Crown May Still Look Thin: Some people may notice very fine, wispy new hairs beginning to emerge by the end of month 3.
Months 4–6: New Growth Begins
This is when most patients begin to see encouraging signs of progress. Hair starts growing in, although it may appear thin and fine at first.- Texture May Be Uneven: Early growth may look wiry or uneven in direction.
- Density Gradually Improves: The density of the hair will improve over a few months.
- Crown Begins to Fill In: You may need to adjust your hairstyle as hair fills in to maintain a natural look.
Months 6–9: Significant Improvement
The crown area sees more noticeable improvement in both density and texture during this period.- Thicker, Healthier Hair Growth: At this point, hair should be noticeable, thicker, and look and feel more like your natural hair.
- More Uniform Coverage: At first, spotty coverage is normal as hair growth after a crown transplant begins, but this tends to even out.
- Styling Becomes Easier: With more hair, it becomes easier to style to hide any thinning areas and gives you more options that may not have been available to you.
Months 9–12: Final Results Take Shape
By the 12-month mark, you’ll likely see 80–100% of the final result from your crown transplant.- Hair Fully Grown In: Hair in the transplanted area tends to reach its final result after about one year. The hair should look, feel, and act like their natural hair.
- Natural Texture and Direction Return: Your hair should maintain your natural texture and growth direction by the time the final result comes in.
- Crown Looks Naturally Full: The hair on the crown should have a natural appearance.
After 1 Year: Maintenance & Future Planning
Most patients are thrilled with their transformation at the one-year point. If your surgeon discussed a multi-stage approach (common for large crown areas), they may assess whether another session is needed for optimal density.- Consider Hair Health Maintenance: Supplements, topical treatments, and a healthy lifestyle can support ongoing hair health.
- Regular Follow-ups Recommended: Follow-up appointments are recommended throughout the process to ensure proper healing and monitor the hair growth process.
Final Thoughts
A crown hair transplant is a gradual journey, not an overnight fix. But with time and care, it can lead to lasting, natural-looking results that restore not only your hair—but your confidence, too.If you’re in the planning stages or recently had a transplant, trust the process and follow your provider’s aftercare closely. In the months ahead, you’ll likely be glad you invested in this transformative procedure.Read more: DHI vs FUE Hair Transplant: Which Method Is Better for You?10 Days After Hair Transplant: What to Expect During Recovery