Hair Transplant Aftercare: The First Days, Washing and Recovery

The first weeks after a hair transplant are important for the transplanted hair roots to settle. Following the care instructions given by the doctor during this period helps recovery go smoothly. Because the care protocol can vary from person to person and with the technique used, the information below is general; your doctor's advice should always take priority.

The First Days

• In the first days, sleeping on your back with your head slightly raised can help reduce swelling; avoid positions that put pressure on the transplanted area.
• Swelling of the forehead and around the eyes lasting a few days may occur; it usually settles on its own.
• Do not touch or scratch the transplanted area, and protect it from rubbing.
• Use only the medicines, shampoo and lotions recommended by your doctor; ask before using any other product.

Scabs and Washing

Small scabs form in the transplanted area in the first days. When and how the first wash is done is decided by the doctor. Washing is usually done with lukewarm water and the recommended shampoo, without rubbing or pressing, and the scalp is dried without rubbing it with a towel. The scabs are softened as your doctor describes and fall off on their own over time; do not try to pick them off.

Daily Life

• Strenuous exercise, activities that make you sweat, saunas, steam baths (hammam), sunbeds and swimming should be postponed for the period your doctor specifies.
• Protect the transplanted area from direct sun; when your doctor allows it, you can wear a clean, loose hat that does not press on your head.
• Smoking and alcohol can slow healing; it is advisable to avoid them during this period.
• A balanced diet and drinking enough fluids support healing.
• Do not use combs or hair styling products on the transplanted area until your doctor allows it.

Shock Loss and the Following Months

Some or most of the transplanted hairs may fall out in the first weeks. This is called "shock loss"; it is an expected part of the process and the hair roots remain in place. Temporary shedding may also be seen in the hair around the transplanted area. New hair usually starts to grow thin within a few months and thickens over time; it usually takes close to a year for the result to become clear. During this period small pimple-like bumps may appear; do not squeeze them, and show them to your doctor.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See your doctor if there is increasing pain, spreading redness in the transplanted or donor area, discharge, fever, bleeding that does not stop with pressure, or marked swelling that lasts longer than a few days. For the FUE method you can read our article FUE Hair Transplant (Follicular Unit Extraction): How It Is Done, Advantages and Limitations and visit our FUE hair transplant page.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın