Hair Transplant Recovery and Healing

What is important for recovery and healing after a hair transplant?

The recovery process after a hair transplant takes time. The final result will only be visible after approximately one year, though this may vary from person to person. Hair growth occurs at a different pace for everyone. Additionally, recovery depends on how you manage the healing process.

The first 10 days after a hair transplant are the most critical. During the initial days, the wounds are still open, and there is a higher risk of bleeding or swelling and sensitivity of the scalp. Typically, the scalp is washed on the second day after the procedure, which can be done together with us at the clinic if needed.

Tips for Hair Transplant Recovery and Healing

To ensure the best possible recovery, it is important to follow the various instructions carefully. All of this will be explained when you come in for the scalp washing and will also be provided in writing so you can review the advice at your own pace. At the beginning of the recovery process, it is crucial to handle your scalp with care. The transplanted hairs need time to properly grow and settle. Therefore, it is not advisable to wear a cap or hat in the initial stages. Additionally, while sleeping, it is better to minimize contact between the pillow and the recipient area.

After the procedure, small scabs will form as the transplanted hairs leave tiny wounds behind. It is advised not to touch or pick at these scabs, as they will naturally fall off, usually about 5 to 10 days after the treatment. Be sure to handle your scalp gently after the procedure. Avoid wearing a cap, hat, or helmet during the first few weeks following the treatment, and refrain from exercising for the first 4 weeks. These activities can interfere with the healing process, potentially affecting the final result. The most important thing after a hair transplant is to be patient and treat your scalp and transplanted grafts with care during the initial weeks.

The success of the final result depends largely on how you handle the recovery process. The first 10 days after the procedure are crucial. A few helpful tips can come in handy during this time:

Hair Care After the Hair Transplant. After the transplant, the hair follicles need a few days to properly anchor in the recipient areas. Before you leave for home, GlobalHair will provide you with care products to use during the first 10 days following the procedure. The hair surgeon will also advise you on when, how, and how often you can wash your hair. Caution is required during the first few days. Always ensure that you do not scratch off the scabs that form, but allow them to fall off naturally.

For the first few nights, sleep with an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. This helps reduce swelling and allows the hair follicles to settle in optimal conditions. This will help the recovery process after the hair transplant. Starting from the third night, you can sleep normally without the extra pillow.

Dress carefully on the day of the hair transplant and the days after. Choose a blouse or shirt that you don’t need to pull over your head.

Be careful not to bump your head, including when getting in and out of a car. During the first days, wearing headgear is not recommended. About 7 to 10 days after the hair transplant, your scalp will be healed, and you can wear a loose hat, cap, or headgear. If you do accidentally bump your head after the hair transplant, it usually doesn't mean that hair will stop growing. However, it’s a good idea to have a doctor check to ensure that nothing has gone wrong and that no hair grafts have been lost.

Protect Your Scalp from Sunlight and Tanning Beds. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny weather, use sunscreen with a high SPF. It is recommended to avoid exposing the treated area to the sun and tanning beds for the first month after an FUE hair transplant in order to achieve optimal healing.

Be Careful with Styling for Optimal Healing. Avoid using gel, wax, or hairspray during the initial period. Also, refrain from using hot styling tools, such as hairdryers, straighteners, or curling irons.

Quit Smoking Before and After the Procedure. If applicable, stop smoking well before the procedure. Smoking negatively affects recovery and the final result, so avoid smoking in the weeks following the hair transplant. If quitting is difficult, consider using aids such as nicotine patches or gum.

Resuming Heavy Physical Labor. You can resume heavy physical labor in consultation with your doctor. It usually takes around 14 days for you to recover enough to do so safely.

Limit Physical Activities. Sports activities, contact sports, swimming, and sauna visits should be limited in the weeks following the hair transplant. Most sports can be resumed after 4 weeks, and the same applies to swimming pools and saunas.

Smooth Hair Transplant Recovery and Healing

Most men and women recover smoothly from the hair transplant without any problems. However, there is always a small chance of side effects and/or complications. These risks are thoroughly discussed with you during the consultation at GlobalHair. To accelerate recovery after a hair transplant and positively impact the final result, it is essential to follow the tips and advice provided by the consultant and hair surgeon. Despite all the precautions and preparations you take, it is possible to experience an allergic reaction to the anesthesia used. Sometimes infections, poor wound healing, and scarring may occur. However, most side effects, such as swelling, redness, and bruising, are temporary and will subside in the days following the hair transplant in Turkey. Your skin will typically heal within 7 to 10 days. However, this does not mean that the final result will be visible at that time. The first new hair growth is usually visible after 3 to 4 months, and it will take several more months before the result is final. Therefore, it is essential to educate yourself about the regrowth process. Additionally, seek guidance from experienced consultants and hair surgeons. You can schedule a consultation with GlobalHair by calling or messaging us on WhatsApp at +316 44 36 36 22.

The five most frequently asked questions about the recovery and healing process after a hair transplant are as follows:

1. How long does recovery take after a hair transplant?

Recovery after a hair transplant usually takes a few weeks, depending on the type of transplant and the individual recovery capacity of the patient. In the first few days after the procedure, the scalp is often red and slightly swollen. The scabs typically begin to heal within a week, and after 10 to 14 days, they are usually gone. Most patients can resume their daily activities after a week, but the final result is typically visible only after 9 to 12 months.

1. Can I exercise after a hair transplant?

It is advised not to engage in sports during the first 4 weeks to avoid swelling, bleeding, and potential damage to the transplanted grafts. During this period, it is important to avoid intensive movement or stress on the transplanted area. After two weeks, light activities can generally be resumed, but it is recommended to wait at least a month before engaging in heavy exercise or weightlifting to ensure the best result.

1. Is itching normal after a hair transplant?

Yes, itching is a normal part of the healing process after a hair transplant. It occurs as the skin heals and new cells are produced. Although the itching can sometimes be intense, it is essential not to scratch, as this increases the risk of infection and can damage the transplanted grafts. Using mild, doctor-recommended moisturizers or soothing sprays can help reduce the itching.

1. When can I wash my hair after the transplant?

Typically, you can gently wash your hair after 48 to 72 hours, but only according to specific instructions from your doctor. In the first week, a gentle technique is recommended, using light pressure and avoiding rubbing. Specially recommended shampoos help clean the scalp without damaging the sensitive grafts. After about a week, your washing routine can be adjusted, but it is advisable to remain cautious.

1. When do the transplanted hairs fall out, and will they grow back?

It is normal for the transplanted hairs to fall out after 2 to 4 weeks, a process known as 'shock loss.' This is a temporary phase; after about 3 months, new hair will begin to grow. From this point, the hair gradually develops, and the final result will be visible after 9 to 12 months. Although this shedding process can be alarming, it is a normal part of the recovery and regeneration process after a hair transplant.