What Is Post-Op Care?

Post-operative care (post-op care) refers to the essential steps, guidelines, and follow-up practices that patients must follow after a hair transplant procedure. While the surgery itself is important, how you care for your scalp in the days and weeks that follow plays a major role in graft survival, healing speed, and overall success.

Proper post-op care helps reduce the risk of infection, graft loss, scarring, or unnatural results, and maximizes your investment in long-term hair restoration.

What It Includes

• Immediate Aftercare (first 24–72 hours):
  • Avoid touching, scratching, or washing the transplant area
  • Use prescribed saline sprays or post-op mists to keep the area hydrated
  • Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling
• Hair Washing Routine (typically starts on Day 3–5):
  • Gently wash the donor and recipient areas as instructed by your clinic
  • Avoid direct water pressure and use soft dabbing motions
  • Use only recommended shampoos or foams
• Swelling and Itching Management:
  • Cold compresses may be applied to the forehead (not the graft area)
  • Anti-inflammatory medication or antihistamines may be recommended
• Activity Restrictions:
  • No heavy exercise, sweating, or swimming for 10–14 days
  • Avoid sun exposure, helmets, or hats that rub the scalp
• Follow-Up Visits:
  • Scheduled check-ins to monitor healing, remove scabs, or apply additional therapies (like PRP or LLLT)

Why It Matters

• Prevents infection and complications
• Promotes healthy graft survival and regrowth
• Reduces swelling, redness, and discomfort
• Ensures natural-looking, long-lasting results
• Helps identify early signs of any issues

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Stick to your clinic's instructions — even if you feel fine
• Don’t pick or scratch scabs or crusts — they’ll fall off naturally
• Stay hydrated and eat well to support healing
• Be patient — shedding is normal before new growth begins

Questions to Ask Your Clinic

• What does your aftercare kit include, and how should I use it?
• When can I resume regular shampooing and exercise?
• What should I do if I notice redness, pus, or persistent pain?

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your clinic’s personalized post-op care instructions and consult your surgeon with any concerns.

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