FUE Hair Transplant

Our patients are numbed or sedated during the transplant procedure and rarely experience discomfort. However, following the follicular unit extraction hair transplant procedure, patients may experience tightness in the scalp or some mild bleeding and swelling. Dr. Sitapara advises patients to use over-the-counter medication to reduce temporary side effects if necessary.

A FUE hair transplant is a procedure with long-lasting results, so Dr. Sitapara wants to ensure your complete satisfaction with your final look. The number of appointments will vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s own recovery timeline. Since hair regeneration takes time, Dr. Sitapara will require several follow-up appointments to track your recovery and healing progression.

The transferred hair follicles will take time to regenerate, so Dr. Sitapara encourages patients to be patient while their scalp gradually transforms. Patients should see a difference in their hair density and growth around twelve weeks following their procedure. There will be a larger difference around one year after the initial transplant procedure.

Dr. Sitapara offers telehealth consultations and follow-up visits for out-of-town patients requesting more information on their candidacy for FUE hair transplants. Prime Facial Plastic Surgery is located in Columbia, Maryland, conveniently minutes away from charming hotels, spas, and highly-rated restaurants. Please let our team know how we can help you coordinate your travel plans with our surgical suite to ensure you receive the best care and have a comfortable stay while you recover from your procedure.

Hair restoration involves risks and complications. Some risk factors with follicular unit extraction hair transplants may include:

• Risks due to anesthesia
• Infection
• Bleeding or bruising
• Swelling
• Asymmetrical hairline
• Poor hair growth

To avoid these complications, a facial plastic surgery specialist such as Dr. Sitapara is necessary. Please let our team know if you experience any unusual complications after your procedure.

Hair Transplant (FUE) Pre & Post Instructions

Amazon Post-Op List: Amazon Post-Op Items
Dr. Sitapara has curated these items to aid in your recovery. Please review ingredients for any allergies or contraindications:

• L-Arginine Pro: Scientifically proven to aid in healing and reduce pain. Consume 1 scoop daily for the week before and after surgery.
• Vitamedica Bromelain: Reduces bruising. Take one pill per day for one week before and after surgery.
• General Gauze Sponges: For wound care, non-woven for comfort.
• Extra Strength Tylenol: Take 500mg every 4-6 hours for pain control, not exceeding 4000mg per day.
• Active Skin Repair Hypochlorous Acid Hydrogel: Apply to donor incision twice daily with clean hands.
• Sleep Options: We recommend sleeping with your head slightly elevated and on your back. Here are some options to help:
  • AM Aeromax Back Sleep Training Pillow: Designed to train you to sleep on your back.
  • Cozymaker Wedge: Elevates your head and neck to the optimum angle.
  • Airplane Pillow: Bring with you on the day of surgery.

Preoperative Instructions

• Medications: Avoid aspirin or NSAID medications (ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil) for 14 days prior to surgery, and only take them on the advice of your physician.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 7 days before surgery.
• Haircuts: Do not get a haircut before your transplant unless instructed by our surgical team.
• Exercise: Avoid strenuous workouts 3-4 days before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. No saunas the day before or morning of surgery.

Check List Prior to Surgery

• Bring your filled prednisone tablets to the surgery day. We will guide you on dosage.
• Transportation: Arrange for a ride to and from the clinic, as you cannot drive after surgery.
• Dress: Wear a button-up shirt for comfort (avoid clothes that must be pulled over your head).
• Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol 24 hours before surgery.
• Hair Care: Wash and shampoo your hair the night before and morning of surgery (no hairspray or gels).
• Neck Pillow: Bring an airplane neck pillow to surgery.
• Pre-Surgery Meal: Eat a meal before surgery; we provide snacks during the procedure.

Postoperative Instructions

• Driving: Do not drive for at least 24 hours post-surgery or until fully off narcotic medication.
• Swelling & Pain Prevention: Prednisone is taken to prevent swelling. Swelling is usually mild and resolves in 3-5 days. Ice packs, head elevation, and a sweatband may help prevent swelling.
• Pain Control: Take prescribed pain medication as needed. Tylenol is recommended the first night for comfort.
• General Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for 4-5 days. You may walk the next day but avoid activities like wearing helmets or any head-impact exercises for 7-10 days.
• Donor Site Care: If bleeding occurs at the donor site, apply firm pressure or a cold pack for 20 minutes. A small amount of bloody seepage is normal.

The Day After Surgery (Day #1)

• Bandage Removal: After 24 hours, remove any surgical cap. Use a saline spray to gently soak the tape and bandages until they come off easily.
• Showering: You may shower from the neck down, but do not wet your head. If your head gets wet, let it air dry. Continue using saline to hydrate the grafts.

Day #2

• Shower: You may gently get your head wet with a cup or pitcher of warm water. Avoid shampooing or conditioning.

Day #3

• Shampooing: Use the pads of your fingers to gently massage shampoo into your scalp. Do not use your nails. If necessary, use baby oil to remove any ointment residue.
• Numbness: The top of your scalp may remain numb for a few months due to nerve disruption, but sensation will gradually return.

Days #4-7

• Showering: Continue gentle washing. The grafts will begin to lose scabs and may shed the transplanted hair, but the follicles remain alive and will grow new hair in 3-6 months.
• Rogaine: You can resume using Rogaine 5 days after surgery.

Camouflage Tips

• A light dabbing of makeup can cover redness for the first few weeks.
• Avoid wearing a hairpiece for at least one week. If you must wear one, convert it to a clip-on style.
• You can wear a loose fitting hat or scrub cap after 3 days.
• Apply ointment to larger scabs nightly to help them fall off faster.

Saline Recipe

1. Boil 1 quart of tap water for 5 minutes or use distilled water.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of table salt to the water and mix until dissolved.
3. Store in a clean container at room temperature for up to a week.

Exercise Restrictions

• Walking: Start with walking 3 miles 1-2 weeks after surgery.
• Vigorous Exercise: Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 6 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us. We are committed to achieving the best possible results for you based on your individual needs and anatomy.

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