The Role of Nutrition in Your Hair Transplant

Why Nutrition Matters More Than You Think

At My Hair Clinics we focus on delivering natural and lasting results through Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant surgery. While surgical precision and technique are vital, your body’s ability to heal and support new hair growth is just as dependent on internal factors—chief among them is your nutritional status.

Nutrition influences every stage of the healing process. From the moment your grafts are placed, your body must create new blood vessels, close microscopic wounds, and support the metabolic demands of growing follicles. Without the right balance of nutrients, this process can be delayed or disrupted. A patient with a poor nutritional profile may experience slower regrowth, reduced density, or extended inflammation at the transplant site.

Studies have confirmed the link between nutritional deficiencies and disrupted hair cycling. Research published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology  identifies micronutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin D as important regulators of hair follicle behaviour. In the context of transplant surgery, these same nutrients help support graft survival, angiogenesis and epithelial regeneration.

Nutritional Demands During the Transplant Process

Protein is essential for wound healing. It supports keratin synthesis, immune cell activation, and new tissue formation. During the weeks following surgery, your body enters a phase of high cellular turnover. Hair follicles require energy and building blocks to move from the resting (telogen) to growing (anagen) phase. A protein-deficient diet may limit this transition.

Zinc plays a role in DNA replication, collagen formation and immune regulation. Zinc deficiency has been associated with poor healing outcomes in various surgical settings. In a transplant scenario, it may increase the risk of graft shock loss or localised folliculitis. Patients with high stress or poor diets may be more vulnerable to subclinical zinc depletion.

Iron deficiency is a known cause of chronic hair shedding. In women, low ferritin often delays new growth post-transplant, especially if the level falls below 50 ng/mL. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport to the scalp, and low tissue oxygen tension can impair angiogenesis around new grafts. Several studies highlight ferritin as a marker worth addressing before surgical interventions.

Vitamin D deserves mention as well. It influences immune cell behaviour, supports anti-inflammatory responses, and helps regulate the hair growth cycle. Observational studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may predispose patients to diffuse thinning or poor graft integration.

A high-quality preoperative diet should be nutrient-dense, with emphasis on:

• Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs, legumes)

• Iron-rich foods (spinach, red meat, lentils)

• Omega-3 fatty acids (sardines, mackerel, flaxseeds)

• Whole grains, nuts and seeds

• Plenty of water

Post-Surgical Healing and Nutritional Support

After FUE surgery, you enter a phase of active wound repair. This includes fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix remodelling and revascularisation. Each process demands energy, amino acids, and specific micronutrients. Patients who resume poor dietary habits immediately post-op may disrupt these healing cascades.

We encourage patients to avoid processed food, alcohol, and low-calorie diets during the recovery period. At My Hair UK, we often see better outcomes in those who support their recovery with consistent meals, moderate protein intake and targeted supplements.

While a general multivitamin may suffice for most, patients with anaemia, thyroid disease, or digestive issues may need tailored advice. Collaboration with a GP or dietitian before surgery can be helpful.

Importantly, nutritional deficiency can sometimes mimic graft failure. If new growth is sparse at 4–6 months post-surgery, we review iron, zinc and vitamin D levels before making any decisions about further intervention.

Cost and Value: Is Nutrition Worth the Extra Effort?

Hair transplant surgery is a long-term investment. At My Hair UK, our prices are fixed and transparent—£2,899 for up to 1000 grafts, and £4,899 for procedures requiring up to 3500 grafts. These prices include consultations, surgery and post-operative follow-up.

But no financial cost guarantees a good result if your body is not primed for healing. Investing in blood tests, high-quality supplements and good food can support your outcome significantly. Compared to the price of surgery, the nutritional component is modest—and within your control.

FUE is a technique that depends not only on the hands of the surgeon but also on the condition of the tissue in which the follicles are placed. Nutrition shapes that environment. Your decisions in the weeks before and after surgery will determine whether your new grafts simply survive—or thrive.

FAQ

How much does a hair transplant cost at My Hair UK?
The cost starts at £2,499 for up to 500 grafts and increases with graft count. For example, 1000 grafts cost £2,899, and 3000 grafts cost £4,499. All prices are fixed and include aftercare.

Should I take vitamins before my transplant?
If you're deficient in key nutrients like iron or vitamin D, yes. A multivitamin may be helpful, but blood tests can provide more specific guidance.

Does my diet really affect the results of surgery?
Yes. Poor nutrition can impair healing, slow down growth, and affect graft survival. It’s one of the most overlooked factors in hair restoration.

What should I eat after the transplant?
Focus on whole foods—lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, complex carbs and healthy fats. Avoid alcohol and junk food for at least two weeks.

Can I follow a diet plan post-op?
Avoid strict or low-calorie diets during the recovery phase. Focus on nourishing your body to support healing and new hair growth.