The donor area for a hair transplant is usually the back and sides of the scalp. These hairs are often more resistant to DHT, a hormone linked to androgenetic alopecia. The follicles are moved to thinning areas, while the small removal sites heal with mild redness, scabs, itching, and skin repair.
Healing depends on how the follicles are removed and how your scalp responds. Most donor-site healing occurs within 1 to 2 weeks. Some redness, numbness, or sensitivity may last longer. Recovery also depends on graft count, spacing, scalp health, and medical oversight.