Hair Transplant Surgery Aftercare: 9 Basic Steps

For most men as well as women, hair transplant surgery is a lifesaver. It is the way by which men and women regain not only a full head of hair but also their confidence and desire to live life to the fullest.

But hair transplant surgery is no walk in the park, and getting the best results requires strict adherence to certain steps post-surgery. If you're thinking of availing of hair transplant for men or hair transplant for women, it's important that you know the necessary steps you need to take after getting one. Different doctors may advise different steps and treatments after surgery, but in most cases these are the steps that need to be followed in order to achieve the best, lasting results with hair transplants:

1. Sleep semi-upright

To keep grafts in place and also reduce swelling doctors recommend that patients sleep semi-upright, with their head propped up in pillows or on a reclining chair until the scalp is fully healed. If the grafts are located in the lower crown, it is recommended that you sleep on your side for the first few days while ensuring that your head is always elevated.

2. Avoid excessive sweating, heat and cold

Excessive sweating, heat and cold can keep your scalp from healing properly, so you should avoid these as much as possible. It's best to stay indoors during this time but if going outdoors is unavoidable, it is advised that you wear a loose-fitting hat but only if it has been at least 2 days after surgery.

3.Avoid strenuous activities

Strenuous activities such as sports, running, cycling and weight lifting can not only make you sweat a lot but can also cause bleeding, swelling and loss of grafts. You should avoid these activities for about a month after the procedure or until you get the approval of your doctor.

4. Clean gently

The grafts must not be disrupted or washed 24 hours after surgery. After that it is advised that you wash your hair carefully and gently with the shampoo or product that your doctor recommends. It is best to hand-wash your hair instead of using the shower, and only using the shower with low pressure around 4 days after the procedure.

5. Stop smoking and drinking

Alcohol can thin the blood and cause bleeding, while smoking can disrupt blood flow to hair follicles, impeding their growth. It would be best to avoid both completely at least a month after surgery, and to reduce consumption of alcohol and cigarettes prior to the surgery in preparation.

6. Avoid fidgeting, bending or lifting

You absolutely must not pick on or scratch your scalp even with scabs on it as these actions may cause infection and risk the survival of the grafts. Scabbing is normal, but if it persists after 2 weeks or so then you may not be shampooing vigorously enough. Also, refrain from bending over, lifting things or even blowing your nose violently at least 2 days after surgery as these can cause bleeding and swelling. Should minor bleeding occur, simply put light pressure on the affected area with a moist clean cloth for around 5 to 10 minutes until the bleeding subsides.

7. Take only the prescribed medication

Before going through with the procedure make sure that you discuss with your doctor any maintenance medication you may be taking. After surgery make sure you take the prescribed medication, which often includes painkillers and antibiotics. Avoid medications that will thin the blood as these may cause bleeding. If you are unsure of taking any medications, approach your doctor first.

8. Minimise swelling with an ice pack

If swelling occurs you can use an ice pack to minimise it but remember not place the ice pack directly over the grafted site. Place the ice pack on your forehead instead.

9. Get enough rest

Just as with any surgical procedure, it's important that you get enough rest to properly aid healing. The better care you take with your scalp and yourself during the recovery period, the better and faster your recovery.

Each surgeon will have his or her own set of instructions for you post-surgery, so apart from keeping note of the basic steps make sure to heed their particular instructions as they know your case best. And remember, ultimately your recovery time will depend on you and how well you can follow post-operative procedures.

If you’d like to know more about hair transplant surgery or any other hair loss solutions for men and women, don't hesitate to contact Transitions Hair today on 1300 427 778.

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