So, you’ve went and got the hair transplant you’ve always wanted. Congratulations! But the time now is crucial to keep those newly transplanted hair follicles alive. Whether you got the ARTAS ix Robotic Hair Restoration or the Neograft Hair Transplant, both come with post-op instructions that are very similar and imperative to follow. Let’s break it down, shall we?
Why Following Your Hair Transplant Guidelines Matters
Have you ever built your kids jungle gym in the backyard and said, “I don’t need the manual”? Then realized, after gruntin’ and cussin’ your way through drilling only two holes, maybe it would’ve been easier, faster and you would have gotten a better product out of it? I think we have all done that a time or two
The same is said for following directions before- and after- a procedure. By not following directions, you could potentially damage your follicles and not get as great of a result. Poor aftercare also comes with risks such as infection, shedding and poor growth. According to Hermest Hair Transplant Clinic, “Over 90% of hair transplant failures are linked to poor post-operative care, not surgical error”.
Your Hair Transplant Recovery Timeline
- Day 1-7: Some itchiness, scabbing, swelling, redness.
- Day 7-14: low amounts of redness, hair shedding starts, some scabbing, no more swelling.
- 1 month: Hair may appear patchy, may experience some shedding, new hair will have covered the donor site.
- 2 months: Some patchiness and shedding
- 3 months: New hairs will be emerging but will be thin and transparent.
- 5 months: More hair will be growing; some patchiness may occur.
- 6 months: Significant growth spurt of new hairs, new hairs starting to become stronger and thicker.
- 9-12 months: New hair will be much thicker and continue growing in around 1-2cm per month.
What to Do Before Your Hair Transplant
- Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions Exactly
- Stop Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
- Smoking and alcohol consumption can risk infection and reduce blood flow. For best results, smoking and alcohol consumption must be stopped before, and after, your hair transplant in virginia beach.
- Adjust Medications if Directed
- You may need to make changes with certain blood thinners and/ or supplements. Be sure to bring a list of the medications and supplements you are taking to your consultation and present to your provider.
- Eat a Healthy Diet and Stay Hydrated
- Eating healthy and staying hydrated will benefit the healing process.
- Wash Hair as Directed
This can typically be around day 4 following your hair transplant, but be sure to follow the guidelines given to you by your provider.
What NOT to Do Before Your Hair Transplant
- Don’t Take NSAIDs, Aspirin, or Certain Supplements (unless cleared)
- Increases bleeding risk during surgery
- Avoid Haircuts or Chemical Treatments
- Scalp needs to be healthy for graft placement
- Don’t Skip Meals Before Surgery
- Stable blood sugar helps with anesthesia tolerance
What to Do After Your Hair Transplant
- Sleep with Your Head Elevated
- Reduces swelling in the first 3–4 days
- Protect the Transplant Area
- Wearing a loose, clean hat (we will provide one for you), avoiding scratching
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
- Promotes healthy follicle growth
- Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
- Ensures progress is on track
Section 5: What NOT to Do After Your Hair Transplant in Virginia Beach
- Don’t Touch, Scratch, or Pick at the Grafts
- Risk of dislodging grafts and infection
- Avoid Strenuous Exercise or Heavy Sweating (for 7–14 days)
- Prevents swelling and bleeding
- No Direct Sun Exposure (for at least 2–3 weeks)
- Protects sensitive scalp skin
- Don’t Use Hair Styling Products Early On
- Risk of irritation and follicle damage
- Avoid Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and Saunas (for at least 3–4 weeks)
- Chlorine and bacteria can harm grafts
Section 6: How to Set Yourself Up for the Best Results
- Patience: full results take 9–12 months
- Healthy lifestyle for ongoing hair health
- Optional treatments (PRP, hair supplements) to boost growth
Have questions regarding your recent Hair Transplant in Virginia Beach?
We want to ensure you get the absolute best hair restoration results. We are here always to help answer any questions or concerns. Please call at 757-496-4937.
