Although hair transplants have become minimally invasive today, it is still a surgery.
Yes, you heard it right. Even FUE, which is often claimed to be non surgical by ‘Hair Consultants’, is actually a surgical technique. In fact, International Society for Hair Restoration Surgery calls it Follicular Unit “Excision”, to avoid any confusion.
So, now that its clear that ALL hair transplants are surgery, it is rational to assume that body will react to this surgery by sending healing molecules to the affected area. In some individuals, these healing molecules go into an overdrive and cause swelling. Tumescent solution used for anesthesia and, to reduce blood loss may also contribute to it.
The swelling does not occur in everybody; only few people will have it. And there are many ways to avoid or minimise it, which we shall discuss later. When it does occur, it usually comes on 3rd to 5th day and gradually reduces after that. Forehead, eyelids and cheeks may be involved. Sometimes, it may be accompanied by bruising also. An evaluation may be requested by your surgeon, but often no medication is required.
How do we Avoid Swelling After Hair Transplant?
At Provelus following techniques are used to avoid or minimise swelling after hair transplant,
1.Head Elevation: During procedure we will keep head elevated. Once you’re back home, try to sleep lying on your back and keeping your head above chest level. You can use a recliner or a couple of pillows one above the other. You can also raise head end of your bed and place an air pillow around your neck. Do check with your doctor, in case you have cervical spine problems.
2.Medicines: We use locally acting anti-inflammatory “Triamcinolone” in tumescent solution to prevent post operative edema. After transplant, you are advised to use the medicines as prescribed, that may include antibiotics, pain killers and swelling reducing drugs.
3.Cold Compresses: In the early stages of injury, ice is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. You can use cold compresses on day 1 to 3 after transplant. But you need to be careful that you do not put it directly over the transplanted hair grafts. An ice pack just above your brows, can be a great preventative measure.
4.Reduce Activity: Heavy activity should be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery. Increase in heart rate or blood pressure may increase swelling and may even cause damage to transplanted hair follicles.
5.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water during healing phase. Alcoholic beverages should be avoided for at least 48 hours. Alcohol can cause blood thinning and may exacerbate the swelling after hair transplant.
For more information regarding Hair Transplant in Delhi, you can reach Provelus at +91-11-45201001 or +91-9650047060.
Provelus is an ISO 9001:2008 certified hair clinic based at India’s capital New Delhi. Voted as one of the best clinics for hair transplant in Delhi (Times Healthcare Survey), we have over 35 years of hair transplant experience and thousands of satisfied hair loss clients worldwide.
At Provelus, there are no bad hair days!
