From 2008 to 2022, the number of hair transplant procedures performed worldwide increased by an astounding 157%, as reported by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. In the early stages of healing, the transplanted scalp may look red, scaly, and swollen. Signs like these usually disappear after 10-14 days.
The hair transplant industry has seen explosive growth over the past decade, mostly as a result of a slew of high-profile individuals normalizing the process through their candid public discussions of previous hair transplants. This is why hair transplants are becoming a popular procedure many people look forward to undergoing.
You’ve likely exhausted all available non-surgical options for hair loss treatment and are now planning to undergo a hair transplant. Starting planning for your hair transplant recovery now is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:
Precautions to Take After a Hair Transplant
1. Laying Flat While Sleeping
Sleeping with your head raised for the first seven days following treatment is recommended to reduce the likelihood of swelling. For some patients, sleeping with their heads elevated is only necessary for a short period of time.
But keep in mind that not everyone has edema after getting hair implants. Sleep normally if you don’t feel any pressure on your forehead.
We suggest turning your recliner into a makeshift bed if you have moderate edema. Even if it’s not the best option, some people actually prefer sleeping in their recliners over a bed with four pillows. Keep your head at a 45-degree angle from the ground.
2. Forgetting About Your Labels
Taking prescription and over-the-counter drugs without first reading the label is a bad idea following a hair transplant. Avoid getting sick by taking antibiotics as directed.
Additionally, if the warning label on your prescription analgesic states that you should not operate complicated equipment such as diesel fuel shut-off valve or other machinery, then you should not drive after taking the medication.
It’s important that someone stays with you if you live alone during this period. Many people find it difficult to operate common electronic devices such as mobiles, home scurry systems, or operating smart lock for commercial doors.
If you’re already taking medication, you shouldn’t overdo it with anything. Many people experience stomach upset after taking pain relievers or other drugs before eating.
3. Indifferent to the Cold
When you were young, did your parents show you how to treat an injury with icr? Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are the cornerstones of treating so-called “injuries” characterized by swelling.
Applying ice to the area immediately above the eyebrows for 20 to 30 minutes will help reduce swelling. This works wonderfully as a preventive as well. You may wish to perform this three to four days following hair restoration even if you don’t have any swelling. Sometimes, a simple application of ice is all it takes to feel better.
4. Bathing or Shampooing
Do not wash your hair for the first 48 hours following a hair transplant. You can wash your hair lightly again on the third day following treatment. Through the fifth day after treatment, gentle shampooing is recommended.
Keep the stream from blasting you in the head. Instead, you should use a cup to remove shampoo from your hair. Applying a conditioner to your scalp in a gentle manner will help relieve irritation.
Timeline for Hair Regrowth After Transplant
Be cautious for the first two weeks after surgery because the hair grafts are not yet fully stable. There may be negative consequences from any blows to the head during this time period.
We advise resting more than usual for the first two weeks after surgery. This prevents perspiration and grime from accumulating in vulnerable spots. Patients are expected to take their prescribed medications as directed. It is imperative that you strictly adhere to our surgeon’s post-operative recommendations as you progress through the healing process.
Bandages can be removed between 1 and 5 days post-op, but the recipient site and grafts must remain undisturbed throughout this time. You should take extra care to protect your scalp by wearing a cap at this time because it is more easily damaged.
Swelling around the eyes or on the forehead may become apparent at this time; follow our recommendations for sleep and medicine to minimize this effect.
On the fifth day, patients can take a mild shower and wash their hair. The aftercare package will have comprehensive guidelines for doing so. The grafts will have adjusted to their new home and be less likely to become dislodged. However, you still need to be cautious because scabs can be there, so try not to scratch your head.
The transplanted hair typically falls out after two weeks. Rest assured, though; this is very typical and new growth will soon appear.
After around three to four months, the patient will begin to see new hair growth, which will result in a fuller head of hair.
The full effects should be apparent after 12-18 months. The long-awaited, thrilling results will finally be on display, so you may proudly flaunt your new hair and reap the many benefits of a full head of hair without breaking any of the rules established by seasoned surgeons.
Conclusion
It makes no difference if your severe hair loss is the result of bad luck at birth, medicine, getting older, stress, or anything else. Some people might face hair loss due to working in an environment where covering hair is essential. One of the top examples include clean room injection molding labs.
Confidence, contentment, and self-esteem are all boosted by the procedure.
However, there are several things you should avoid to facilitate a speedy, pain-free recovery and to achieve the best possible outcomes from your therapy.