EricK

I was told it was 4,006 grafts to be exact. This was spread across my scalp as in the second picture. Are you saying that doesn't look like 4,006 grafts to you?

I'm trying to understand and get to the bottom of the truth about alcohol use and smoking post hair transplantation. I've read numerous articles about how alcohol and smoking interfere with transplanted hair growth by depriving the scalp of oxygen, delaying healing, etc. I've also read forums/articles on how smoking/drinking is prohibited anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks post transplantation. I enjoy drinking and occasional smoking. I don't drink every day nor do I smoke every day. I did not smoke or drink for at least 2 weeks post procedure. I've probably had a total of 2-3 packs of cigarettes in the past 5 months and generally drink on the weekends, depending on the occasion. I may go hard and have a good time on special events like parties, weddings, etc. Aside from the general comments on how smoking and drinking are bad for you, are there published studies on how drinking/smoking affect your transplanted hair? I obviously don't want to impede on the growth of my investment, but I also have a certain lifestyle that I live and, while I did refrain from that lifestyle for the first two weeks as specifically instructed, I've maintained that lifestyle since then. Again, it's not a crazy lifestyle.

I know this question comes up a lot and I also know patience is key, but I'd like to get some opinions on how my progress is coming along. I had a total of 4,000 grafts spread over my scalp (1,600 in the front, 400 in mid, and 2,000 in crown). I'm about 5.5 months in and, while I've noticed growth and people have told me that my hairline has improved, I just don't know if I'm where I need to be. Just for background, I've also been using topical minoxidil/finasteride since two weeks post procedure (currently dealing with dandruff as a result) and did PRP injections the first three months post procedure. Here are some pics before transplant, during transplant, 3 months after transplant, and 5.5 months after transplant. As you can see, I haven't seen tremendous amount of growth in crown area which used to be completely bald, but I obviously see some hair growth.