Hair transplantation is a highly successful and popular procedure for improving appearance. Following some hair transplantation Pre-op Guide before and after the procedure is important to ensure the best results.
Before Your Operation
To optimize your results, follow these pre-op instructions:
- The cost of the procedure is based on the technique, not the number of grafts. Changes in graft numbers won’t affect the price.
- One week before surgery, avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, garlic, spices, minoxidil-based medicines, energy drinks, high-dose vitamins, and herbal supplements to reduce the risk of bleeding. Paracetamol is acceptable.
- Inform us about any medications, illnesses, allergies, or recreational drugs you use, as they may interact with the anesthesia.
- Try to reduce smoking a few days before and after the surgery.
- Wear comfortable clothes, wash your hair on or before the day of surgery, and eat a light meal beforehand.
- Avoid strong caffeine drinks or foods on the morning of surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding.
- Contact us with any questions to help ease your concerns.
During Your Operation
- After surgery, you may wear a baseball cap or loose hat but avoid tight-fitting or wooly hats. We will show you how to wear it safely without disturbing the grafts.
- After the local anesthesia wears off, the donor area may feel tight and sore. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen every 4-6 hours for the first 24-48 hours to manage discomfort.
- Avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours to prevent bleeding.
- If you notice slight bleeding from the donor site, apply pressure for 5 minutes with a clean swab.
After Your Operation
The donor area may bleed slightly due to the extraction process. Follow these aftercare steps:
- Use dressing and compression to manage bleeding. If scabs form, gently dab the area with clean tissue.
- Wash the donor area with baby shampoo 3-4 days after surgery, using a towel to absorb blood.
- Avoid washing your hair in the shower for the first 4 days to prevent dislodging the hair follicles.
- For the first 7-10 days, be gentle with the transplanted area. Avoid scratching, rubbing, or picking at the grafts.
- For the first 2 weeks, keep your scalp out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Don’t wear headgear for two weeks after surgery to protect the grafts.
- Wear a loose-fitting hat or headscarf to shield your scalp from the sun if you go outside.
- Avoid intense physical activities or exercise that may cause sweating for one week.
- Refrain from smoking and alcohol for at least a week to promote healing.
- The recipient area, where the follicles were implanted, may show inflammation. To manage it, take prednisone as directed by your doctor. You should also report any steroids to your doctor.
- Use the sterile water provided to keep the grafts moist for the first 48 hours to support cell nourishment and healing.
Be patient, as results can take several months to become visible. Follow up with your doctor to monitor healing and ensure the best outcome.