Photo follow-ups happen at four standard intervals through the first year of recovery. Dr. Jones reviews each personally and sends written feedback. In-person follow-up is welcome but not required — particularly useful for out-of-town patients.
Donor area healing assessment, recipient area scab clearance check, early questions about routine. Most patients are presentable; the shed has begun for some. Dr. Jones reviews and sends written feedback within 5 business days.
The shed is typically at peak around month three. Many patients are anxious here — the result looks worse than before surgery. The check-in confirms the shed is normal and on schedule. Dr. Jones’s written feedback addresses your specific photos.
New hairs are emerging. Density is at roughly 60–70% of the final result. This is the most rewarding check-in for most patients — visible progress against a real photo timeline. Dr. Jones documents the trajectory and confirms growth is on track.
Density is final. The result is what it’s going to look like long-term. Dr. Jones reviews against the original surgical plan and confirms outcome. This is also the appropriate time to discuss any considered second session if applicable.
For each follow-up, submit the same five photos used at consultation: front, top-down, both profiles, back of head. Use the same lighting (natural daylight, no hat, hair dry, hair styled the way you usually wear it).
Consistency in photo conditions is critical for tracking real change. Tiny lighting differences make significant density differences look bigger or smaller than they are. The patient portal sends a reminder before each follow-up window with a checklist.
Out-of-town patients do follow-up entirely remotely. In-person follow-up is welcome but not required.
Call the clinic any time. Submit photos out-of-cycle if something looks unexpected. We’d rather hear from you than have you worry quietly.