I would like to hear some honest opinions on the following topic:

How awkward is the post-operative stage? It seems that the results are great after one year but what happens until then? Is it really odd to walk around with tiny little hairs poking out of your scalp on your hairline? Is there anyway to hide it, or do you just ignore the stares thinking "I know it will get better, oh God I hope it will get better!?!"

Well, I would have to say it is a little awkward for a while. It takes a about a month for the newly planted grafts to shed. After that, it begins to look like nothing every happened. In other words, you look like pre-transplant after about a month. Redness can linger a while, but is easily covered by a little makeup. It varies from person to person.

Well, i'd also think that the more towards the front that the work is done, the more obvious it will be. After you take care of the hairline, the stuff further back might not be as obvious.

I am 58 days post-op and noticing shock-loss at this point...also, in these almost 60 days, the stubble of hair has been there almost the entire time.

Being in college helps, as I can wear a hat every day.

Cal,

Check out this photo journal of a patient progress from day one to over a year later.

All the best, Pat

Much of it depends on the individual,the amount of hair that you have to cover ,...and the skill of the surgeon.

That was one of my biggest concerns.Ihave 2 weeks off work, so I can stay out of the public eye for the most part, but I am finishing up my Masters Degree and can't really afford to miss any classes.

Last night I was able to attend class, only 5 days post op, and no one demonstrated the least amount of ' looks' that indicated they suspected that I had something done.

I attribute this to the condition that I still have enough coverage to camoflouge AND that I had the procedure performed by an exceptionally talented surgeon, Dr. Cooley.