Hair transplants represent a minimally-invasive outpatient option for those affected by hair loss. While a hair transplant typically only takes a few hours, the recovery period can last for several weeks. It’s important to take the proper steps to ensure a quick and full recovery. One of the most important things to do is to wear a headband to prevent swelling.
Do I Need to Wear a Headband After a Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant surgery first requires extracting healthy hair follicles from a donor area (typically at the back of the head) before implanting them into the recipient area. Depending on which method of hair transplant is right for any patient (FUE or DHI), this may require the creation of thousands of small incisions in the scalp.
While hair transplants are completely safe, this amount of trauma to any part of the body will almost certainly lead to swelling as blood rushes to the site to try and force the newly-made channels closed. This situation generally only lasts for two or three days before subsiding on its own and is nothing to worry about. In extreme cases, it is possible that swelling can prevent a patient from opening their eyes and can cause black eyes, though these are quite rare.
Why Do I Need To Wear a Headband After a Hair Transplant?
Headbands offer the best defense against, not only swelling but several potential complications.
- Headbands help to protect your sensitive scalp after the operation.
- They can prevent swelling and bruising to help maintain your appearance.
- They can absorb the excess fluid that may leak from the transplant site.
How Long Do I Need to Wear a Headband After a Hair Transplant?
The swelling after a hair transplant generally subsides in a matter of days. In many patients, the headband is only required for 24 hours. Though 48 hours is a more common timeline. Until your surgeon advises you to remove the headband, it is best to wear it at all times including to bed. Even during a shower, it is best to keep the headband on. You should avoid getting your newly transplanted hair wet or washing it for several days after the procedure.
What Else Should I Do?
If post-operative swelling is becoming an issue, there are a few things that you can do to help.
- Sleep in a recliner
Keeping your head elevated is one of the best things you can do to prevent swelling after a hair transplant. If a recliner isn’t an option, set up a few pillows on your bed.
- Drink Plenty of Water
Staying properly hydrated is a great idea for your skin in general. In the days after a hair transplant, it’s important to drink LOTS of water.
- Medication
After a hair transplant, all patients are given a full range of post-operative medicines including a steroid to help prevent and reduce swelling.
- Ice
An ice pack or cold compress is an incredibly effective means of preventing swelling.
- Rest
Avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for at least a few days to give your body the time it needs to heal.
A Hair Transplant With the Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic
As an established member of the International Society of Dermatology, Dr Serkan Aygin has helped over 15,000 clients and has a hair regrowth rate of 98%. In recognition of his work developing the use of sapphire blades during a FUE hair transplant in Turkey, Dr Aygin was awarded the European Award for Medicine in the field of “Hair Transplants” in 2019. That very same year, our clinic was named the “Best Medical Tourism Facility” by La Razon.
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