A modern hair transplant is a refined, highly sophisticated surgical procedure that has a high rate of success. But they are still surgery and, therefore, subject to a recovery period that requires you to carry out aftercare instructions.
Not going out of your way in taking the necessary care of your body and the operated areas can have severe consequences. These consequences may vary from the grafts failing to take properly, to risking your general health due to carelessness.
The good news is that the recovery tips to ensure the success of your hair transplant are fairly easy to carry out.
Tips for Faster Recovery
Following these instructions ensures that your hair transplant is successful and your results are optimal. Do not leave anything to chance. Carry out these simple steps, so everything goes smoothly.
Sleep with Your Head High
The procedure causes swelling in your head. To not make it worse, sleep with your head at a 45-degree angle on the nights after the procedure. Stack extra pillows around to achieve this position. Do not sleep facedown under any circumstances; it will make the swelling much worse. Also, do not let either the pillow or the sheet touch the hair grafts while you sleep.
Be Careful When Washing
Do not wash your hair for 72 hours after the surgery. After that time, you can wash it with caution. Do not use the shower. The water falling aggressively in the area can dislodge the hair grafts.
Instead, use a cup filled with water. This allows you to control the intensity of water hitting your head. As far as shampoo, the surgeon will either give you special shampoo or suggest that you use baby shampoo. Baby shampoo is mild and suitable for the tender zone of the grafts. When applying, use only a little bit and gently move it around your scalp with your fingertips, then let it sit before rinsing it.
Pressure It Regularly
To actively combat the swelling a bit, grab a gauze or sterilized cloth. Put it on the zone, and apply pressure to it for 10 minutes straight. That will promote blood flow and make it subside a bit. Do it as much as you need throughout the day.
Take Your Medications
It goes without saying. Take your prescribed medication on schedule and in the doses, your surgeon laid out for you. Continue the treatment until they tell you otherwise.
Avoid Sunlight
The receiving site is very sensitive at the time after the surgery, so much so that it does not stand the sun at all. Wear a hat that is not tight and leaves plenty of room on top of your head for the grafts to breathe.
Don’t Sweat It
If you are the type that exercises regularly, this is time to take a break. Sweating is not good for the receiving site and can result in discomfort, itching, or even infection.
Let the cardio and weights rest for a time; your hair will thank you for it. Refrain from exercising for at least 8 weeks.
If It Itches, Don’t Scratch It
Many times, you might experience an itch around both the receiving and the donor sites. Don’t scratch it under any circumstance. You are only risking the results.
Your surgeon might recommend some ointments you can put on to soothe the sensation. Practice meditation and relaxation techniques to further avoid the urge to scratch.