How to Prepare for a Hair Transplant Procedure
Tips to Maximize Your Results
Considering a hair transplant procedure to restore your hairline and enhance your confidence? Proper planning before your procedure can help you achieve the best results and return on investment. Learn the right preparations to make in the weeks leading up to your surgery, the day of the treatment, and afterward to ensure you obtain the best results possible.
Pre-Hair Transplant Procedure Preparations You Should Make
Ask Questions About the Procedure to Your Hair Transplant Specialist
Before your hair transplant surgery, have a thorough discussion with your specialist and address any concerns or questions. Your doctor is the best resource to provide you with information about the procedure, its process, duration, and any post-operative expectations. Being well-informed and comfortable about your hair transplant surgery beforehand will keep you confident when the day of the procedure arrives.
Follow Any Given Instructions
Depending on the procedure type, your hair transplant specialist will provide specific instructions to follow before the treatment. Follow these instructions as directed to ensure the success of your surgery and to avoid complications. This may include massaging your scalp for 10 - 30 minutes each day in preparation for surgery, starting a month before.
2 Weeks Before Hair Transplant Surgery
As you approach your hair transplant surgery, there are important steps to take in the two weeks leading up to the procedure. Stop consuming alcohol during this time. Alcohol can thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding during surgery. Additionally, stop cutting or trimming your hair, as longer hair provides better coverage and enables the surgeon to assess the donor and recipient areas more accurately. Be sure to get plenty of rest leading up to the procedure.
Other Don'ts of Hair Transplant Preparation
- Don't smoke at least 7 days before your procedure
- Don't take certain medications and any supplements without your doctor knowing
- Don't undergo other hair treatments such as perming or coloring
- Don't consume blood-thinning substances
- Don't expose your scalp to excessive sunlight
Day of Hair Transplant Procedure Preparations
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing on the day of your hair transplant procedure. Wearing loose, comfortable attire will help you relax and make it easier for your hair transplant specialist to work on your scalp. Avoid upper body clothing that will require you to pull them over your head.
Consider Finding a Companion to Drive You
Since you will be sedated during the hair transplant procedure, consider finding a companion to drive you home afterward. A partner can help you stay comfortable and make the experience more pleasant.
Prepare Any Last Minute Questions
Make sure to ask your hair transplant specialist any last-minute questions before the procedure. This can alleviate any anxieties and ensure you fully comprehend the procedure. It’s best to make a list of questions beforehand so you don’t forget.
Post Hair Transplant Procedure Recovery
Follow Any Post Procedure Instructions Given By Your Specialist
Following your hair transplant procedure, your specialist will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your scalp so it heals properly. Follow these directions carefully, including how to wash your hair, how to care for the donor and recipient areas and any limits to physical activity. See our full guide to post-hair transplant surgery recovery to maximize the aftercare process and protect your results.
Dr. Burt Steffes
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Burt Steffes is a highly skilled and compassionate board-certified dermatologist with a passion for providing exceptional care and natural-looking results to his patients at Dermatology & Cosmetic Physicians. With over a decade of experience specializing in cosmetic and medical dermatology, Dr. Steffes combines his extensive training, modern technology, and personalized approach to help his patients achieve their skincare goals with confidence and peace of mind.
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Top-Rated ARTAS Hair Transplant Specialist
Dr. Steffes of Dermatology and Cosmetic Physicians is Wisconsin's only provider of the most effective hair transplant procedure available, ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplants. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Steffes to learn more about this revolutionary hair loss restoration treatment.
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