A hair transplant is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. today, particularly among men. If you’re thinking of getting hair transplant surgery, you might be wondering about what happens after the operation.
The period immediately following a hair transplant is crucial to successful hair growth afterward. Your doctor will give you specific advice and instructions on post-surgical care before you leave the clinic.
Let’s talk about some of the things you can expect to experience after this surgery, and the self-maintenance for your new hair.
What to Expect After Hair Transplant Surgery
After surgery, it’s normal to feel a little discomfort, tightness, or pain, which is why you are prescribed pain-relief medicine. The pain should gradually decrease within two to three days after the surgery.
You may also experience some oozing of the surgical site in the first couple of days. However, pain that is intense is not normal and merits a visit to the doctor.
How to Maintain a Hair Transplant
Some tips for caring for a recent hair transplant include being prepared for the following:
- Take several days off from work or daily activities to take it easy and rest.
- Be careful not to pull out the grafts when you remove your compression dressing or touch your head.
- Sleep with your head elevated for at least a week after the surgery.
- Regularly check for signs of infection and excessive bleeding.
- Refrain from swimming until you are fully healed.
- Avoid rigorous physical activity.
- Protect your head from sunlight by wearing a protective hat.
Post-Op Care of the Surgical Sites
During your consultation with the doctor, the physician will explain how to begin planning for your post-operative care. Some of the things you can expect are the following:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.
- Fill your prescriptions as needed before the surgery.
- You may be allowed to wear your own clothing during the surgery, so be ready by wearing a buttoned or zip-down top that does not have to be pulled over the head.
- Do not take anti-inflammatories or aspirin within two weeks before and after the surgery unless the doctor instructs otherwise.
- Avoid smoking for two weeks before and after the operation.
Long-Term Care of Your Hair Transplant
After your hair transplant surgery, your scalp might still be less sensitive to touch. Therefore, it is important to be careful when using heated devices, since you may not notice your hair or scalp burning.
You should also take it easy with movements. It’s best to avoid intense workouts and sports until you are completely healed. Excessive sweating and pressure can irritate your new hair follicles and may cause them to fall out.
Hair Restoration Physicians in Washington State
Dr. Robert Niedbalski understands that if you’re thinking about hair restoration, you may have many questions you’d like to ask. During your consultation, he will guide you through the entire process from presurgery to postoperative care.
As a trusted authority in the hair restoration industry, he has performed many hair transplant surgeries successfully and without complications. Dr. Niedbalski is committed to listening to your needs and educating you on how to fully, properly care for your new hair.
Call us today at (253) 572-2949 or request an appointment online right now. We look forward to helping you love what you see when you look in the mirror!
