A Guide to Before and After a Beard Transplant at My Hair UK

Beard transplants have grown in popularity over the past decade, reflecting not just changing cultural norms around facial hair but also the increasing refinement of surgical techniques. At My Hair UK, we offer Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) beard transplants for men looking to restore or reshape facial hair with natural results. This article outlines what to expect before and after the procedure, based on current surgical standards and our clinical approach.

Pre-operative care is essential to ensure optimal graft survival and minimise complications. All patients undergo a medical consultation where we assess suitability based on scalp donor density, hormonal health, and previous history of hair loss. We strongly advise visiting your local GP for a general health check to prepare for surgery. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, anaemia, thyroid dysfunction or dermatological conditions like seborrhoeic dermatitis should be addressed first, and conditions such as alopecia barbae can be identified which may mean you are not suitable for a beard transplant. Blood tests may be requested if there's any doubt about systemic health. Smoking must be stopped at least seven days prior to the procedure, as nicotine-induced vasoconstriction can compromise graft take and wound healing. Patients must avoid alcohol, aspirin, and ibuprofen in the days leading up to surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. Hair should not be dyed for at least 72 hours before the procedure. On the day of surgery, patients are encouraged to have a light breakfast and wear comfortable clothing that does not require removal over the head.

The FUE technique involves extracting individual follicular units, typically from the occipital scalp, using a manual or motorised punch. Grafts are sorted by the number of hairs—single, double, or triple—and strategically placed into the beard area based on the recipient site's vascularity, orientation of native hair, and aesthetic goals. Anaesthetic is delivered locally to both the donor and recipient sites, using lidocaine with epinephrine to ensure haemostasis and patient comfort. The procedure typically takes 4 to 6 hours depending on the number of grafts required. At My Hair UK, beard transplants are a fixed cost of £2,899, regardless of the graft number, provided the procedure is completed in one session. This structure provides patients with clarity and consistency in pricing without compromising surgical outcomes.

After the procedure, we provide detailed post-operative instructions to guide the healing process. Mild swelling is common in the lower face and may peak on the second or third day. Patients are advised to sleep with their head elevated to reduce oedema. Tiny crusts will form around each graft and should not be disturbed. Gentle cleansing using sterile saline can begin after 48 hours, followed by a gentle shampoo from day five. Shaving must be avoided for at least 10 to 14 days to protect the integrity of the new grafts. Redness and mild scabbing typically resolve by day ten, but in individuals with fair skin, lingering erythema may persist for longer.

Graft shedding—known as shock loss—is a normal part of the process and usually begins around week two. It can be distressing for patients who expect immediate density, but this is a temporary phase. New hair growth becomes visible from month three, with steady thickening through to month nine and full maturity by 12 to 15 months. At each stage, our aftercare team monitors progress and provides ongoing support. We recommend patients return to their GP for routine health monitoring, especially if they’re on medications that can impact circulation or hormone levels.

From a histological perspective, transplanted beard hairs behave similarly to their original donor site. This means they will continue to grow at a scalp-like rate unless trimmed. For some, this can initially seem too rapid, especially in men who are not used to daily beard maintenance. Over time, the transplanted hairs integrate visually and functionally with native facial hair, offering a consistent aesthetic result. Density expectations must be realistic. In men with sparse donor supply, it may not be possible to achieve full coverage across large areas. This is always discussed during the consultation phase, where graft limitations and anatomical boundaries are mapped in a realistic plan.

The psychological impact of a beard transplant can be significant. Many patients report improved self-esteem, particularly in cultures or professions where facial hair carries social significance. Others seek treatment to address scarring from acne, trauma or previous surgery. FUE beard transplants allow for precise camouflage of such areas, though care must be taken not to over-harvest the donor region in the pursuit of full beard reconstruction.

Understanding the before and after process for a beard transplant is essential for a good outcome. The surgery is minor, but the healing process and final result depend heavily on how well you follow guidance and look after yourself. With a fixed price of £2,899, My Hair UK offers one of the most cost-effective beard transplant services in the UK, performed by experienced surgeons who prioritise safety, detail and patient satisfaction.