Is Hair Transplantation Painful?

To answer this question, it might be a good idea to review some of the basics of hair transplantation. The practice of hair transplantation has been around since the 1950s and has developed greatly over the years. Essentially, hair from a hair-growing region of one’s scalp is removed and then grafted (or inserted) into the desired (thinning) area. The technique has become extremely sophisticated over the past few decades and hair units of as little as a few hairs, or even one single hair, can be removed and grafted into a new area effectively.

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis and can typically take from four to eight hours. While the procedure is extremely convenient, it is a surgical procedure nevertheless and consequently some discomfort can be expected. Before the procedure takes place, the patient will receive a local anesthetic, and they may feel a slight pricking sensation (like the tip of a pen on the scalp). Soon afterwards the anesthetic numbs the skin, relieving any sensation throughout the procedure.

In terms of recovery, patients may experience tenderness, redness, and mild pain for a few days afterwards and may need to take pain (and possibly anti-inflammatory) medication to alleviate post-procedural symptoms. However, these are generally mild enough that patients are able to return to work within a day or two, at most. Following post-procedure instructions during the first few weeks of healing will help minimize any discomfort following the hair transplant procedure.

Two to three weeks after transplantation, the introduced hair falls out, but this will be replaced by new hair growth. Six to nine months after the procedure, most patients will have realized 60% of new hair growth. By a year, most patients will realize full hair re-growth.

Hair loss therapies have come a long way from the wreath that the Roman Emperor Cesar sported to hide his receding hair line, the bogus ointments and tinctures touting themselves as miracle cures, and the duct tape-inspired adhesives (which are actually detrimental to hair follicle health) used to bind hair pieces to the scalp. Hair transplantation provides a natural-looking and permanent solution to hair loss.

If you are considering a hair transplant procedure, we recommend that you set up a free consultation with a Bosley Professional. Meeting with a Bosley Counselor and/or Physician will help answer your questions and guide you to the best solutions for your hair loss.

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