First things first, every hair follicle goes through a stage of shedding called exogen. A healthy scalp loses up to 100 strands of hair every day during this stage, assisted by contact with the scalp through brushing, combing and washing. A stray hair in the sink is rarely cause for concern.
We can also lose hair when the follicle is stressed or shocked, like after a hair transplant surgery. It is rare, but still happens. How often? It affects less than 5% of recipients and occurs about 60 days after surgery. And during regrowth, it can begin its growth period as thinner and somewhat colorless.
Should I Worry?
If the weather forecast shows a less-than-5% chance of rain, the odds are in your favor that you won’t be getting wet that day. Besides, almost everyone experiencing shock hair loss goes on to begin growing their hair a month later, like other recipients. The only difference is some hair loss before the real growing begins.
Shock loss is a natural part of the process. Those who experience it can rest assured that this is simply an affirming sign that the hairs will begin growing soon. Those who don’t experience it (95% of recipients) will have to wait another month or so for their confirmation that all is on track.
Is It Shock Hair Loss, or Could It Be Something Else?
So far, we’ve been discussing hair loss affecting follicles of hair transplant surgery. But sometimes, the non-transplanted hairs around the transplanted ones may become stressed and fall out. This might appear as soon as 14 days after surgery, but could take months.
In our hectic lives, stress can be a regularly occurring event. Hair loss and life stress can be related. Heavy stress can cause hair loss in some people. It is called telogen effluvium and accelerates large portions of hair follicles into a stage other than the growing stage, namely resting or shedding.
Outside of stress-related or natural shedding, sudden hair loss could point to an underlying medical condition that should be addressed. Regardless, it is always wise to find out from a professional.
Conclusion
Shock hair loss is a natural stage in the process of hair transplant surgery that does not affect everyone. It’s as normal as a pimple on a teenager. In the words of Tony Soprano… fuggetaboutit.
If you have any questions about hair restoration or hair loss, or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us to schedule an appointment.
