Male pattern baldness is a growing concern worldwide. With so many pollutants in the hair and harmful chemicals in the water, the scalp is affected, causing hair loss. Fortunately, there are now several hair transplant procedures that encourage hair growth.
Some of the techniques include follicular unit transplant (FUT), follicular unit extraction (FUE) and direct hair transplantation (DHI).
This is a guide which is useful once the hair transplant procedure is completed. This will help you learn about recovery and postoperative care.
What happens after the hair transplant?
After the surgery is over, there may be side effects that can lessen the use of appropriate medications and home remedies. Here’s what to expect after the hair transplant procedure-
Bleeding
Swelling of the scalp
Swelling around the eyes
Itching
Crust formation in the transplanted or donor area
Lack of sensation in the transplanted area
Infection or inflammation of the hair follicles – folliculitis
Sudden loss of transplanted hair
How long does it take to recover from a hair transplant?
The length of the healing period depends on the type of hair transplant that the individual has undergone. Obviously, the person can recover faster with a direct hair transplant or DHI as there are no stitches. The doctors at Pristyn Care use the most advanced DHI technique to treat baldness.
After follicular unit transplant – The person can recover in almost 2 to 3 weeks
After extraction of the follicular unit – The patient recovers in 5 days
Direct hair transplant – Healing is faster than the other two procedures
It is not mandatory that once the recovery period is over, the patient can see the results. It is the time for hair transplant to work.
After a follicular unit grafting and follicular unit extraction procedure, the hair grows after 8-12 months. With the DHI procedure, it takes about 3 months for new hair to grow.
In the first 6 to 10 weeks of the procedure, the transplanted hair falls out due to a syndrome called shock loss. It is a natural part of the recovery process as the hair follicles remain intact.
From the grafted hair follicles, new healthy hair grows.
Recovery schedule after hair transplant
Day 1-3 – There is swelling and bruising on the scalp. Take antibiotics and pain relievers in the recommended amount as prescribed by your doctor. Limit your movements as much as possible to avoid injury to the transplanted follicles. Make sure the scalp doesn’t hold back during this time. Therefore, only give water to the body when showering and avoid hair. Also sleep with your head raised and additional pillows under your head. The swelling can persist after 3-4 days of surgery. Ultimately, it disappears over time. On the 4th day, the person can wash their hair.
Week 1-3 – After 10 days of recovery, regular hair washing is allowed. However, if you experience itching, avoid it as much as possible. Start with light exercises like walking and jogging. Busy activities remain a big no. Avoid styling products as much as possible. There are no signs of hair transplant within fifteen days after the hair transplant.
How do you recover after a hair transplant?
Regardless of the type of hair transplant that a person chooses, it is important to take certain necessary precautions. Doctors advise that the first 15 days of the recovery period are extremely important. Therefore, the patient should be extremely careful to ensure that the grafts are not moved. Here are a few things to consider –
Avoid lifting heavy weights or performing strenuous activities that can put pressure on the grafts. This also includes loading heavy items.
Be sure to stop drinking alcoholic beverages during the recovery period.
Don’t go swimming to protect your scalp from salt, dirt, and chlorine.
Do not put your head directly under the head when showering.
Cover your head with a hat when leaving to protect the scalp from direct sunlight.
Pour water over your head with a cup or mug to make it as soft as possible.
Apply a conditioner in this area to relieve small red spots or relieve itching.
Massage the scalp gently in a circular motion while applying the conditioner.
Read more: Know the pros and cons after a hair transplant
Conclusion
After hair transplant, precautions are extremely important to ensure minimal risk and get results. The Pristyn Care Clinic is fully equipped with the latest devices for the DHI technique of hair transplantation. If you have any questions about the hair transplant procedure, contact one of Pristyn Care’s doctors. Make an appointment today!