Refer a friend and earn a $50 credit! REFER NOW

Hair transplant Patient Guide

Hair transplant is a popular treatment for enhancing appearance and restoring confidence. The procedure has a high success and satisfaction rate. Like any medical treatment, it requires adherence to specific guidelines and instructions to ensure the best results.

BEFORE SURGECY

Before your operation

Pricing
The cost of your hair transplant is determined by the technique used rather than the number of grafts extracted. If the graft count changes during the procedure, you will not be charged any additional fees.

Avoid certain substances
For one week before the surgery, you should avoid consuming alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, garlic, spices, minoxidil-based products, energy drinks, high-dose vitamins, and herbal supplements, as these can increase the risk of bleeding. Paracetamol is safe to use during this period.

Medical disclosure
Make sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, any serious medical conditions, allergies, or recreational drug use, since these factors may affect anesthesia or the treatment process.

Smoking
It is recommended to reduce smoking a few days before and after the surgery to support better healing and recovery.

Day of surgery
On the day of your procedure, wear comfortable clothing and wash your hair either that morning or the day before. Have breakfast or an early lunch beforehand, and avoid consuming foods or drinks high in caffeine, as they may increase bleeding risk.

Questions
If you have any concerns or need clarification, feel free to ask—the medical team is available to support you and ensure your comfort throughout the process.

During Your Operation

  • You may wear a baseball cap or similar hat when going home, but avoid tight-fitting or wool hats.
  • The staff will show you how to put on your hat safely. Once in place, do not adjust or remove it while your scalp is still numb — the grafts can be easily dislodged.
  • When you arrive home, remove your cap slowly and use a mirror for guidance.

Pain and Medication

  • Mild pain or tightness in the donor area is normal once the anesthesia wears off.
  • You may take paracetamol or ibuprofen every 4–6 hours during the first 24–48 hours to reduce discomfort.
  • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours after surgery — it thins the blood and may cause minor bleeding.
  • Minor spotting of blood from the donor site is normal; press firmly on the area for 5 minutes using clean swabs provided.

AFTER SURGECY

Team of cosmetic surgeons standing in medical clinic

Donor Area Care

The donor area refers to the back and sides of your head, where follicles are harvested.
You may experience mild bleeding from the puncture points — this is expected.

  • The follicles are extracted using a rotating blade, which can cause light oozing.
  • Use Jelonet and compression to manage bleeding.
  • If dried blood remains, gently dab with clean gauze or tissue.
  • You may wash the donor area with baby shampoo (e.g., Johnson’s) after 3–4 days.
  • Use a towel placed behind your head to absorb any residual moisture or blood.
Team of cosmetic surgeons standing in medical clinic

Recipient Area Care

The recipient area is where the hair follicles were implanted.

    • Do not wash your hair in the shower for the first 4 days, as this can dislodge grafts.
    • Be gentle for 7–10 days after the procedure — avoid rubbing, scratching, or touching the transplanted region.
    • For the first 2 weeks, protect your scalp from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
    • Do not wear hats, beanies, or hard hats for 2 weeks — this can damage follicles and affect growth.
    • When outdoors, use a loose-fitting hat or headscarf for protection.
    • Avoid intense exercise or any activities that cause sweating for 1 week.
    • Refrain from smoking and alcohol for at least one week.
Team of cosmetic surgeons standing in medical clinic

Medication and Inflammation

    • You may experience mild inflammation in the recipient area — this is normal.
    • Prednisone will be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
      • Take as directed by your doctor.
      • Always take it in the morning with food for four days only.
    • If you are already taking steroids, inform your doctor beforehand.
Team of cosmetic surgeons standing in medical clinic

Graft Care and Healing

  • Hair grafts and surrounding skin are living tissues that require oxygen, nutrition, and hydration.
  • Keep grafts moist for the first 48 hours using the sterile water spray provided.
  • This helps cells exchange nutrients and promotes early healing.
  • Be patient — it can take several months to see full results.
Team of cosmetic surgeons standing in medical clinic

Follow-Up

Be sure to attend all scheduled follow-up visits with your doctor, as these appointments help track your healing and overall progress. They allow your provider to ensure that both the donor and recipient areas are recovering well and that the transplanted hair follicles are developing as expected.