🩺 Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Instructions for Hair Transplant

1. Avoid Smoking, Alcohol & Caffeine

Do not smoke or consume alcohol, tea, coffee, or soft drinks for at least 24 hours before surgery. These can reduce blood circulation and affect healing.

 

2. Stop Certain Medicines

Avoid aspirin, blood thinners, and other medications at least 5 days before surgery, unless advised by your doctor. These may increase bleeding during the procedure.

 

3. Pause Vitamin & Herbal Supplements

Discontinue vitamins, fish oil, and herbal supplements 5 days prior to surgery, as they may interfere with healing.

 

4. Avoid Heavy Exercise

Do not engage in intense workouts, running, heavy lifting, for at least 24 hours before surgery, as they can raise blood pressure and swelling risk.

 

5. Wash Your Hair on Surgery Day

On the morning of surgery, wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo. Do not apply oils, gels, sprays, or styling products.

 

6. Do Not Shave or Cut Your Hair

Leave your hair as it is. Your surgeon will trim and prepare the donor area if needed.

 

7. Eat a Healthy Meal Before Surgery

Have a full, light meal on the day of surgery (without tea or coffee). Do not come on an empty stomach.

 

8. Bring Your Regular Prescribed Medicines

If you are on daily medications (such as for blood pressure or diabetes), bring them with you and inform your doctor in advance.

 

9. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Wear a front-open, buttoned or zip-up shirt on the day of surgery. Avoid tight t-shirts or clothing that needs to be pulled over your head.

 

 

1. Protect the Transplanted Area

Avoid scratching, rubbing, or injuring the transplanted area for at least 10 days. Touching the grafts may dislodge them before they are secure.

 

2. Do Not Bend Forward

For the first 24 hours, avoid bending forward to reduce swelling around the forehead and eyes.

 

3. Sleep in the Correct Position

For the first 2–3 nights, sleep on your back with your head elevated at a 45° angle using 2–3 pillows. This helps minimize swelling.

 

4. No Oil or Water on Scalp for 48 Hours

Do not apply oil, water, or any liquid on your head for the first 48 hours after surgery.

 

5. Gentle Hair Washing (After 48 Hours)

After 48 hours, wash your head using a mixture of baby shampoo and water. Do not rub or scratch. Instead, gently pour water until the shampoo is cleared.

 

6. Avoid Swimming and Jogging

Refrain from swimming, jogging, or other aerobic exercises for at least 15 days, as sweat and chlorine can irritate the scalp.

 

7. No Heavy Weight Lifting or Intense Exercise

Avoid gym workouts, weight lifting, or strenuous physical activities for 1 month. These can increase blood pressure and disturb grafts.

 

8. Avoid Caps, Helmets, or Tight Headwear

Do not wear caps, hats, or helmets for the first 3 days. After that, only wear loose-fitting headwear if absolutely necessary.

 

9. Itching is Normal – Don’t Scratch

Mild itching may occur as part of healing. Do not scratch. Instead, press gently or follow your doctor’s advice for anti-itch solutions.

 

10. Comb with Care

For the first 10 days, comb your hair very carefully, avoiding direct contact with the transplanted area.

 

11. Take Prescribed Medicines

Use the recommended antibiotics, pain relievers, and anti-swelling medications exactly as prescribed by your surgeon.

 

12. Avoid Sun Exposure

Stay away from direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks. If going outside, wear a loose hat after Day 3.

 

13. Be Patient with Shedding

Transplanted hairs may fall out after 2–3 weeks. This is normal. New permanent hair growth begins after 3–4 months.

 

14. Avoid Smoking & Alcohol

Continue to avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 7 days after surgery, as they slow healing and reduce graft survival.

 

15. Stay Hydrated & Eat Healthy

Drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious diet rich in proteins and vitamins, which helps with faster healing and stronger hair growth.

 

Pre & Post Hair Transplant Instructions