What is shock loss, and why does it happen?
Seeing transplanted hair fall out a few weeks after surgery worries most patients. In reality, it is an expected part of healing.
Medical review: Altınsoy Hair expert team · Last updated:
What is shock loss?
Shock loss is the temporary shedding of some or all transplanted hairs, usually between weeks 2 and 8 after surgery. What falls out is the hair shaft; the follicle stays beneath the skin and prepares for a new growth cycle.
Why does it happen?
When grafts are extracted and placed in their new location, their blood supply changes briefly. The follicle responds to this stress by shedding the hair and entering a resting phase. Native hair around the recipient area can sometimes thin temporarily as well.
How long does it last?
The resting phase lasts about three months. New hairs start to emerge, fine at first, from months 3–4; visible change appears around month 6, and the lasting look settles at month 12.
- Weeks 2–8: temporary shedding
- Months 3–4: new growth
- Month 6: visible change
- Month 12: final result
When should you be concerned?
Shock loss is expected. However, if there is no growth at all after month 6, or rapid shedding outside the recipient area, ask for a physician's assessment with photos.
The information on this page is for general guidance; diagnosis and treatment decisions are made after a physician's examination.