Hey there! Welcome to the hair transplant community. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nerves before my first transplant, so I totally get where you're coming from. One thing I wish I had known beforehand was the importance of researching different clinics and finding a reputable surgeon. I ended up choosing a clinic with a great track record and experienced staff, and it made all the difference in the final results.
In terms of costs, be prepared for it to be a significant investment. The price can vary depending on the clinic, location, and the number of grafts you need, but it's definitely not cheap. I also recommend being patient with the timeline - it takes time for the transplanted hair to grow in and for you to see the full results. For me, it took about 6-12 months before I saw the final outcome, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.
Overall, my experience with my first transplant was positive, but it's important to have realistic expectations and do your research beforehand. Good luck with your upcoming transplant - I'm sure you'll love the results!