Hair Transplant – Step-by-Step Process Explained

A Hair Transplant is a life-changing procedure that restores more than just hair — it brings back confidence and a youthful appearance. At Westminster Medical Group®, based on London’s world-renowned Harley Street, we specialise in advanced Hair transplant techniques that deliver natural, lasting results. Understanding the step-by-step process helps you know exactly what to expect on your journey to hair restoration.

Understanding the Hair Transplant Procedure

A Hair Transplant involves transferring healthy hair follicles from areas of the scalp where hair is resistant to balding (the donor area) to thinning or bald areas (the recipient area). These transplanted follicles continue to grow for life, making a Hair Transplant the most effective and permanent solution for hair loss.

Step 1: Consultation and Scalp Assessment

Every successful Hair Transplant begins with a thorough consultation. At Westminster Medical Group®, our expert surgeons assess your scalp, hair density, and pattern of hair loss. This stage is crucial for determining whether you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.

What Happens During the Consultation

• Scalp evaluation: We assess donor hair quality and availability.
• Designing your new hairline: Our specialists create a natural, age-appropriate design.
• Choosing the right technique: Based on your needs, we recommend either FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) or FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation).
• Personalised treatment plan: You’ll receive a clear, detailed overview of your Hair Transplant journey, including recovery expectations and costs.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Hair Transplant

Before the procedure, you’ll receive pre-operative instructions to ensure optimal results. You may be asked to avoid alcohol, smoking, and certain medications to promote healthy healing.

On the day of your Hair Transplant, the donor and recipient areas are cleaned, and local anaesthesia is applied to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience throughout the procedure.

Step 3: Extraction of Hair Follicles

The extraction process varies depending on whether you undergo FUE or FUT.

FUE Hair Transplant Extraction

With FUE, individual hair follicles are carefully removed using a specialised micro-punch device. This minimally invasive technique leaves tiny, dot-like scars that are virtually invisible, even with short hairstyles.

FUT Hair Transplant Extraction

In FUT, a narrow strip of scalp containing healthy follicles is removed from the donor area. The follicles are then microscopically dissected for precise implantation. This method allows a larger number of grafts to be harvested in one session — ideal for more advanced hair loss cases.

Step 4: Graft Preparation and Quality Check

Each extracted follicle is examined under a microscope to ensure only the healthiest grafts are selected. These grafts are then carefully preserved in a growth-supportive solution to maintain their vitality before implantation.

At Westminster Medical Group®, graft quality and survival rate are top priorities, ensuring that every transplanted follicle has the best chance to thrive.

Step 5: Implantation of Hair Follicles

Once the grafts are ready, our surgeons meticulously implant each follicle into the thinning or balding area. Using precise angles and directions, we replicate the natural hair growth pattern, ensuring a seamless and realistic result.

The Importance of Hairline Design

The artistry behind a Hair Transplant lies in creating a natural, well-balanced hairline. Our team at Westminster Medical Group® considers facial proportions, age, and density to ensure the new hairline enhances your overall appearance.

Step 6: Post-Procedure Care

After your Hair Transplant, our team provides a comprehensive aftercare plan. This includes instructions on washing, sleeping positions, and medications to minimise swelling and promote healing.

Key Aftercare Tips

• Avoid touching or scratching the transplanted area.
• Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights.
• Follow the washing routine provided by your surgeon.
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Most patients return to work within a few days after their Hair Transplant, with initial shedding occurring in the first few weeks — a normal part of the growth cycle.

Step 7: Hair Growth Timeline

• Month 1–3: The transplanted hair sheds, and new follicles enter a resting phase.
• Month 3–6: New growth begins to appear, though fine at first.
• Month 6–12: Noticeable thickening and density improvements.
• Month 12–18: Full Hair Transplant results become visible, showcasing natural, lifelong growth.

Why Choose Westminster Medical Group®

• Harley Street excellence: Our central London clinic is known for precision, safety, and world-class standards.
• GMC-registered surgeons: Each Hair Transplant is performed by experienced professionals.
• Cutting-edge technology: We use advanced microsurgical tools for accuracy and graft survival.
• Personalised approach: Every Hair Transplant is tailored to match your hair type and restoration goals.

Conclusion

A Hair Transplant is a transformative journey that restores not only your hair but also your self-confidence. At Westminster Medical Group®, our expert team ensures every step — from consultation to full recovery — is handled with precision and care. If you’re ready to take control of your hair loss and achieve natural, lasting results, book your consultation today and let our Harley Street specialists guide you through your Hair Transplant journey.