Recovery after Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Transplant Surgery
Modern hair transplantation allows patients to look and feel their absolute best by filling in thinning spots on their scalps with their own healthy, naturally growing hair. Thanks to advanced techniques such as follicular unit extraction, or FUE, hair transplant surgery has become more refined and sophisticated, with results that are indistinguishable from those men and women who have not suffered hair loss.
While modern hair transplant surgery offers a multitude of benefits, Dr. Raymond J. Konior strives to educate his patients about every aspect of the procedure, including its risks and what patients should expect from - and what is expected of them - during the recovery phase. During initial consultations with Dr. Konior at his hair restoration clinic in Chicago, follicular unit extraction recovery is discussed with patients in detail so that they can make informed, confident decisions as to whether to proceed with surgery.
Post-surgical Discomfort
Some discomfort is normal after any surgery, including hair transplantation using the follicular unit extraction method. The discomfort experienced by hair transplant surgery patients can persist for a few days after surgery, but should generally be bearable. Far more likely than pain, patients will probably experience numbness and a decrease in sensitivity in the treated area of the scalp. Any discomfort can easily be managed with over-the-counter medication. If necessary, Dr. Konior can prescribe pain medication as well as sleep medication.
Follow All Post-operative Instructions
Before you commit to undergoing hair transplant surgery, Dr. Konior will provide you with instructions that will help you experience the smoothest, most comfortable recovery period possible. By following these instructions, you can promote quicker healing, minimize your discomfort, and significantly reduce the risk of infection.
While Dr. Konior will give you specific post-operative instructions based on your unique case, there are certain instructions that are universal to all FUE hair transplant patients. These include:
- Do not shampoo or dry your hair for one to two days after surgery. For the first two weeks after surgery, you should not scrub your scalp or place your hair directly under running water.
- Do not pick at or scratch the scabs that will form at the graft sites. These will fall off naturally and are important to proper healing.
- Take all prescribed medications - especially antibiotics - exactly as advised.
- Get lots of sleep. During the first few days after surgery, sleeping upright in a comfortable chair is advised, as it will help to reduce swelling of the scalp.
- During the first two weeks after surgery, exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided. Sweat can increase the risk of post-surgical infection.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly, particularly before touching the scalp. Be sure that if you wear a cap or apply a towel to your scalp, it is clean.
- If discomfort or pain persists for more than a week, contact Dr. Konior immediately.
Learn More about Follicular Unit Extraction Recovery
To learn more about follicular unit extraction recovery, or to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Raymond Konior, please contact Chicago Hair Institute today.