Hair Transplant Pre-Op Guide

Hair transplantation is a safe and highly effective procedure for restoring hair and enhancing appearance. Careful preparation and proper aftercare are essential to achieve optimal results.

Before Your Procedure

To ensure the best outcome, please follow these pre-operative guidelines:

• The cost of the procedure is determined by the technique used, not by the number of grafts. Any variation in graft count does not affect pricing.
• For one week before surgery, avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, garlic, spicy foods, minoxidil products, energy drinks, herbal supplements, and high-dose vitamins, as these may increase bleeding. Paracetamol is permitted.
• Inform our team of any medical conditions, medications, allergies, or recreational drug use, as these may interfere with anaesthesia or healing.
• Stop smoking a few days before and after surgery to promote proper blood flow and recovery.
• Wash your hair the day before surgery, wear loose, comfortable clothing, and eat a light meal beforehand.
• Avoid strong caffeine-containing foods or beverages on the morning of surgery to minimise the risk of bleeding.
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns prior to your appointment—we are here to support you.

During & Immediately After the Procedure

• After surgery, you may wear a loose baseball cap or soft hat, but avoid tight or woollen headwear. Our team will demonstrate how to wear it safely without disturbing the grafts.
• Once the local anaesthesia wears off, mild tightness or soreness in the donor area is normal. You may take paracetamol or ibuprofen every 4–6 hours for the first 24–48 hours, if needed.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• If mild bleeding occurs at the donor site, apply gentle pressure with a clean swab for 5 minutes.

Aftercare & Recovery

Some mild bleeding and scabbing in the donor area is normal. Please follow these instructions carefully:

• Use dressings and light compression as advised. If scabs appear, gently blot the area with clean tissue—do not rub.
• Wash the donor area with baby shampoo starting 3–4 days post-surgery, using a towel to absorb excess moisture.
• Avoid showering or washing your hair for the first 4 days to prevent disturbing the transplanted follicles.
• For 7–10 days, handle the transplanted area gently. Do not scratch, rub, or pick at the grafts.
• Protect your scalp from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures for two weeks.
• Avoid wearing headgear for 2 weeks; if necessary, wear a loose-fitting hat or headscarf outdoors.
• Refrain from intense physical activity or heavy exercise for one week to prevent sweating.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least one week, as both can delay healing.
• Mild inflammation in the recipient area is normal. Take prednisone only as prescribed and inform your doctor of any steroid use.
• Use the sterile water provided to keep the grafts moist during the first 48 hours, supporting healing and graft survival.

Hair growth is gradual, and visible results may take several months. Patience and adherence to these guidelines are key to long-term success. Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled so your doctor can monitor healing and progress.