What to do after hair transplant surgery

1. Aftercare: Quick guide
2. Treating the main side effects
3. 5 Aftercare instructions
4. 5 Recommended medications & products
5. 3 Optional treatments & supplements

Hair transplantation surgery is a cutting-edge procedure that promises to correct even the most extensive hair loss.

But no matter which clinic you visit, how skilled your surgeon is, or what technique you decide to undergo, one thing remains the same for every patient – the importance of good aftercare.

Aftercare sets your hair transplant up for success, ensuring your new grafts take and your scalp remains healthy. And while clinics will guide you on the specifics, we’re here to help you in this time of need, too.

This article will highlight the dos and Don’ts following your hair transplant surgery. We’ll highlight helpful ways to maximize your comfort during this time, including different medications and products that can support further recovery.

Hair transplant aftercare: Quick guide

5 possible complications after hair restoration surgery

As with any medical procedure, there are some complications you must be aware of. Below are four potential problems you might encounter:

1. Pain and discomfort

During your procedure, your surgeon will numb your scalp to ensure you feel no pain or discomfort. But in the days following, and as the anaesthesia gradually wears off, you might experience mild pain and scalp soreness.

This is quite common for patients and may only last a few days. Your surgical team may have suggestions on how you can manage your pain effectively.

2. Swelling

This is your body’s response to trauma and is a normal part of every patient’s recovery. Swelling after hair transplant can last 2 to 5 days and usually go away without intervention.

That said, if swelling continues to present itself for longer than one week, you should contact your doctor to ensure everything is OK with your hair restoration.

3. Itchiness

Another common complication of hair transplants is itchiness. This can last up to two weeks and be quite challenging to ignore. But you must resist the urge to scratch your scalp during recovery.

Any pressure or trauma can damage hair and prolong the healing process. If the itchiness is unbearable, consult your doctor on possible treatments, like antihistamines, that can help calm symptoms.

4. Shock loss

Shock hair loss after hair transplant means a sudden loss of hair around the donor and transplanted areas of your scalp. It usually occurs three to four weeks after your procedure and can be distressing to experience, especially as you expect to grow a full head of hair.

But this sudden hair loss is to be expected after any major surgery. The good news is that new hair will start growing afterwards. But you must be patient. It can take several months for a noticeable improvement to appear, and the final results of your operation will only be seen from twelve months on.

5. Pimples after hair transplant surgery

Pimples after hair transplant surgery can occur and are usually not a serious cause for concern. These pimples can appear in the recipient area where the new hair grafts have been implanted.

There are a few reasons why pimples might develop after a hair transplant but it’s usually due to inflammation. It can typically be prevented by following the aftercare instructions and ensuring your scalp remains clean and sterile.

You shouldn’t squeeze or pick at the pimples, simply wash your scalp more carefully and apply gentle scalp massage to the area.

5 most important aftercare instructions

Another common complication of hair transplants is itchiness. This can last up to two weeks and be quite challenging to ignore. But you must resist the urge to scratch your scalp during recovery.

1. Removing scabs after hair transplant surgery during hair wash

The first four weeks after your hair transplant are incredibly important, as this is when implanted hair is at its most vulnerable. As such, you must change how you wash and maintain your hair accordingly.

While your clinic will give specific instructions, you should avoid washing your hair during the first week of recovery. Instead, you will sterilize your scalp with a special saline solution to prevent wound infection.

By week 2, you can start to soak and massage your scalp daily with lukewarm water to remove scabs, and by week three, you can use a gentle shampoo (like baby shampoo) to gently but thoroughly clean hair.

Avoid using products with harsh chemicals, including silicone, dyes or scents, and perfumes, as these can irritate the scalp. You should also avoid using heating devices, such as hair dryers, and instead gently pat dry your scalp.

2. Avoid sleeping on your stomach

You must protect your scalp in the days and weeks following your surgery. It is highly recommended that you adjust your sleeping position so that your head does not come in contact with anything.

Sleep on your back and elevate your head with soft pillows. This can reduce complications like swelling and prevent your grafted hair from coming in contact with anything.

3. Minimize sun exposure

You should avoid direct sunlight for at least two weeks following your procedure. This is because prolonged exposure to the sun can cause dryness, discolouration, and hair thinning.

Many patients think wearing a hat or scarf can help protect their hair. But these accessories can cause damage themselves.

Wearing them too tightly could pressure your tender scalp, pull on new grafts, and ultimately prevent new hair growth. As such, please wait at least three weeks before wearing them.

4. Limit physical activity

Excess sweating can slow down your recovery and increase your chances of developing an infection. You should avoid high-intensity exercise for at least three weeks following your procedure.

You can still engage in gentle exercises following your hair transplant procedure. Short walks, for example, are perfectly fine if you avoid sunlight and stay hydrated.

5. Stay away from alcohol, cigarettes and drugs

Alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs can all harm your body, especially as it recovers from surgery. These toxins can cause stress and irritation and put undue pressure on your immune system.

Unsurprisingly, you should avoid taking alcoholic beverages, smoking cigarettes and cigars, or taking drugs for at least 2 weeks following your procedure.

5 Recommended medications and products

Certain medications and products can be recommended to you to help support your hair transplant procedure:

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often prescribed to help reduce any chance of an infection developing on your scalp. The most common prescription only lasts three to five days to help promote optimal wound healing following surgery.

2. Shampoo for hair wash

Washing your hair removes scabs and ensures your scalp remains clean, healthy, and sterile. Baby shampoos are especially useful for patients, as they are gentle on the skin and contain no harsh chemicals.

Be careful when applying shampoo, and avoid scratching or pressing too hard on your scalp. Avoid using heat styling tools like hair dryers; dry hair gently with a towel.

3. Scarex or Contractubex creams

Especially for patients who underwent a Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), you may have suffered scarring across the donor area of your scalp.

Creams like Scarex or Contratubex can be effective in helping to reduce scar visibility. After two weeks, once the wounds have fully healed, apply the cream to the scars twice daily.

4. Finasteride

Finasteride is a common oral medication prescribed to treat hair loss. It is known to help bolster thinning hair and reduce the likelihood of future hair loss.

That said, like any medication, Finasteride has several side effects that you must consider. These can range from a decreased sex drive to erectile dysfunction.

Additionally, it is not a permanent solution for hair loss – once you stop taking the drug, its results will gradually disappear.

5. Minoxidil – Spray or Foam

Minoxidil is a popular over-the-counter medication used to treat and alleviate hair loss. Commonly sold under the name Rogaine, it comes in various forms, including orally, as a spray, or as a topical treatment.

Minoxidil is a vasodilator that improves blood flow, allowing hair follicles to receive all the necessary nourishment. The drug also extends the growth phase of hair follicles, allowing for healthier, longer hair.

Like any medication, there are side effects to be mindful of, including increased facial hair growth, scalp tenderness, irritation, and acne. You should wait one month after your procedure to allow all wounds to heal fully. Finally, like Finasteride, results will gradually fade once you stop your course of treatment.

3 Optional treatments and supplements

1. Biotin supplements

Biotin is a B vitamin that is essential for healthy hair, nails, and skin. It is bought over the counter and is a safe supplement to take.

2. PRP after hair transplant

Platelet-rich plasma treatment, often shortened to PRP, is when concentrations of platelets from a patient’s blood are taken out and injected directly into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

But you must allow a couple of weeks for your scalp to fully recover from surgery.

3. Dermaroller

A derma roller is a device that massages your scalp, improving blood flow and circulation. This prompts your body to produce helpful hormones that speed up new hair growth.

You should wait at least two months if you want to use a derma roller after hair transplant.

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