The Do’s and Don’ts Post Hair Transplant Surgery

Once you leave the operating room after a hair transplant, a new journey of post-hair transplant will begin. This period of time is very crucial and highly counts for the success of your surgery.

Therefore, you should carefully follow the post-operative instructions and adhere to your surgeon’s instructions.

In this blog post, we will discuss the entire process of hair transplant aftercare, what to expect, and what to avoid.

So, without further ado, let’s get right into it!

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Overview of Recovery After Hair Transplant

The recovery period after a hair transplant is significantly shorter than that of other surgical operations. It actually takes between 10 and 14 days to recover fully after hair transplantation. That’s why it’s known as a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure.

During this period, patients may experience some side effects, including swelling, scabbing, redness, scalp numbness, and itching.

These side effects typically subside within 1-2 weeks, and patients can return to their normal routine.

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What to Expect After a Hair Transplant?

Besides the typical side effects that patients may experience after a hair transplant, there are a few other things to consider. Patients should expect their newly transplanted hair to start falling out 2-3 weeks after the surgery. This is completely normal and shouldn’t cause any problems.

The new hair falls out as a way of adjusting to the new environment and allowing for new permanent hair to grow. You can expect your hair to grow back again by the beginning of the 3rd month.

Once the hair starts to grow, it will never fall out again. However, at the beginning, you will notice that the hair shafts are thin and brittle.

But don’t worry! Over time, the hair will grow much stronger and thicker.

You can expect to see initial results after six months; however, it will take eight to nine months to see some actual and satisfying results. For some patients, it may take longer than this period to obtain the final results.

This period can last up to 12-18 months, depending on the patient’s hair growth rate. That’s why it’s essential not to compare your results with those of others, as everyone heals at a different pace.

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Do’s and Don’ts After Hair Transplant

Now that we discussed the expectations and recovery after a hair transplant, let’s talk about what to do and what to avoid.

Instructions to Follow After Hair Transplant

There are certain things you should do post hair transplant to guarantee smooth recovery and successful results. These include:

• Sleeping After Hair Transplant

After a hair transplant, patients should sleep in an elevated position for the first 5 nights to help reduce swelling and prevent the dislodging of the grafts. To help raise your head, you can use two pillows and a neck pillow to prevent your head from tilting left or right.

• Taking Necessary Medications

Once you finish your hair transplant surgery, the clinic will provide you with some medications that include antibiotics, painkillers, and vitamin C.

You should take these medications as instructed to ensure smooth recovery and avoid any pain or infections.

• Washing After Hair Transplant

You can start washing your hair 48 hours after a hair transplant. It’s essential to use a mild shampoo and avoid hot water when washing your hair.

Also, gently massage your scalp with your fingertips in a circular motion for about 5 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

 

 

Avoid using any products that contain harsh chemicals and stick to the products provided by the clinic. Typically, most hair transplant clinics in Turkey provide an aftercare kit that includes a mild shampoo and lotion to help soften the blood clots and scabs.

• Using Ice Packs

To reduce swelling after hair restoration surgery, apply an ice pack to your forehead and cheeks for 15 minutes. However, be cautious not to use it too close to the hairline, as this can cause the hair grafts to detach.

Additionally, it is essential to drink plenty of water, at least 2 liters per day, to prevent dehydration and reduce swelling.

• Wearing the Headband

Hair transplant clinics typically provide their patients with a headband that helps reduce and control swelling. You can wear the band around your forehead for the first 5 days and remove it before you sleep.

Things to Avoid After Hair Transplant

There are certain things you should avoid after a hair transplant to make sure the grafts take root and your results are successful. These include:

• Avoid Touching or Scratching Your Head

After a hair transplant, you might feel an urge to touch or scratch your head, but try to resist it. Touching or scratching your head can irritate the scalp, leading to infections and potentially damaging the grafts.

If you feel like you can’t help but scratch your head, you can spray saline to minimize the itching sensation.

• Avoid Physical Activities

It’s essential to avoid any strenuous activities that can cause sweating for the first month post hair transplant as this can lead to infections. This includes weight lifting, running, cycling, swimming, football (or soccer), and basketball.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight and High Temperatures

You should avoid exposure to direct sunlight and refrain from using the sauna and steam room for at least 2 weeks after surgery. Exposing the scalp to high temperatures can cause excessive sweating, which in turn leads to bacterial buildup and potential infections.

Heat and ultraviolet rays can also damage the skin’s surface, causing scars and preventing the grafts from taking hold.

• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Both alcohol and smoking, either before or after a hair transplant, can damage the grafts and delay healing. It’s best to avoid them altogether for at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after the surgery.

• Avoid Covering Your Head

It’s essential to keep your head uncovered for at least 10-14 days after a hair transplant. This helps the grafts from getting dislodged and allows the scalp to breathe.

For individuals who have to cover their heads for religious reasons, they may start using a loose hat or scarf to protect their heads from UV rays and dust. But, make sure not to use a tight-fitting hat as this can cause pressure on the grafts and damage them.

• Avoid Shaving Your Hair

After a hair transplant, it is essential to wait until the incisions have healed before shaving your head. This typically takes about one month.

Be sure to use clean tools and avoid shaving too close to the skin, as this could irritate the healing tissue. If you are unsure about how to shave your head after a hair transplant, talk to your doctor or surgeon for guidance.

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Additional Instructions Post Hair Transplant

In addition to the list above, there are some additional instructions to follow as part of the hair transplant post-op care.

• You should avoid using hair styling products for at least four weeks after a hair transplant, as they can irritate the scalp and increase the risk of infection.
• Abstain from sexual intercourse for a week after the surgery.
• Avoid bending as this can increase swelling.
• Do not pick at the scabs.
• Do not use any hair dyes for at least one month.
• Avoid using a blow dryer on high heat for the first month after a hair transplant. If you need to use it, you may do so after 2 weeks, but on a cool setting.

In conclusion, by following these simple tips, you can ensure that your post-hair-transplant care and recovery proceed smoothly and successfully.

To achieve the best results, select a reputable clinic like Avrupa Hair Transplant, which features experienced surgeons and a proven track record.