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How to Prepare for a Hair Transplant Procedure

Hair Restoration Specialist

If you have lost some or all of your hair, you may have tried multiple treatments to reverse the effects. If you have not had success with these treatments, you may consider getting a hair transplant. The procedure involves moving hair follicles from a donor area to bald areas on your scalp. Hair transplants are considered very safe and can drastically improve physical appearance. However, in order to have a successful procedure, you must prepare. Here are a few tips for getting ready for a hair transplant procedure.

Avoid Getting a Haircut

At first, getting a haircut right before your hair transplant procedure might seem harmless. However, it is one of the worst things you can do. You want to have as much donor hair as possible. If you cut your hair too short, your surgeon might not have enough donor hair to work with. 

Stop Smoking

Like with other surgical procedures, your surgeon will want you to stop smoking for at least a week before your hair transplant. Smoking tobacco can decrease blood circulation and delay the healing process. It can also cause you to bleed too much or clot too quickly. You will also be advised to refrain from smoking after your procedure.

Cease Certain Medications

If you have scheduled a hair transplant procedure, you will have to stop taking certain medications at least a week beforehand. Ibuprofen, antidepressants and blood thinners, for example, should not be taken before your surgery.

Massage Your Scalp

Massaging your scalp may actually help improve the success rate of your hair transplant. It can help soften the skin and boost blood flow. Therefore, try to give yourself a scalp massage for at least 10 minutes a day before you get your hair transplant. 

Refrain from Drinking Alcohol

If you’re feeling nervous the days coming up to your hair transplant procedure, you may be tempted to have an alcoholic beverage to relax. However, your surgeon will want you to avoid drinking alcohol for at least a week before your procedure, as it can negatively affect the healing process.

If you are interested in getting a hair transplant, you may want to schedule a consultation with a hair restoration specialist, like Dr. Robin Unger. A hair transplant surgeon can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure or not.