Pain during a hair transplant is one of the most common concerns for patients considering the procedure. The honest answer is that the anaesthetic injections cause brief discomfort, but once they take effect, the vast majority of patients feel no pain during the procedure itself.
How Local Anaesthetic Is Administered
Local anaesthetic — typically lidocaine with adrenaline — is injected into both the donor zone (back and sides of the scalp) and the recipient zone (frontal and/or crown area). The injections themselves are the most uncomfortable part of the procedure.
Most clinics use a ring block technique — injecting around the perimeter of each zone before the main infiltration. This numbs the surrounding tissue first, making subsequent injections more comfortable. Some clinics use a dental-style topical anaesthetic gel first, or offer a vibration device (VibraJect) during injection to reduce perceived pain.
What Patients Experience
During anaesthetic injection: a stinging or burning sensation lasting 1–3 minutes per zone. Most patients describe this as similar to a dentist injection or a bee sting.
Once numb (within 10–15 minutes): patients feel pressure and movement but no pain. Some feel mild sensitivity toward the end of a long procedure as anaesthetic begins to wear off — a top-up is given when needed.
Post-Procedure Discomfort
Once the anaesthetic wears off in the evening after the procedure, mild discomfort is expected — most patients describe it as a tight, aching sensation rather than sharp pain. This is well managed with paracetamol. Ibuprofen is generally avoided for the first 24 hours as it can increase bleeding risk.
Sedation Options
Hair transplants are not performed under general anaesthetic. However, some clinics offer oral sedation (a mild anxiolytic) to help anxious patients relax during the procedure. If anxiety about pain is a significant concern, discuss this option at your consultation.
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