It is important that patients preparing for a hair transplant procedure thoroughly wash their hair before arriving at the surgery. Patients are asked to refrain from using hair sprays, conditioners, lotions, or anything that may remain on the hair or scalp on the day of the procedure.
Patients are also asked to abstain from alcohol for 3 days prior to the procedure and to cease smoking at least 24 hours ahead of time. It is advised that patients eat a hearty and nutritious breakfast before the procedure.
Patients should avoid taking multivitamins, and vitamins B and E at least a week before surgery. These vitamins may promote bleeding. Patients should also avoid aspirin and anti-inflamatory drugs during that same timeframe.
Patients may be presented with a number of medications prior to the procedure. Many patients are asked to apply minoxidil, a lotion that promotes hair growth, to the donor area for at least two weeks prior to the date of the surgery. This will help increase the supply and accessibility of hair at the donor site.
Prednisolone will also be supplied to patients. This medication must be taken six times daily before the procedure. This medication prevents forehead swelling, which can be a side effect of hair transplant surgeries.
Augmentin may also be supplied to patients. This is an antibiotic that will help patients avoid infections at the donor or insertion sites.
A blood analysis is required before the performance of a hair transplant surgery. This blood test will screen for Hepatitis C and B, as well as HIV. These conditions could cause complications during surgery. The results of this blood test must be available before the date of the procedure.
Patients will benefit from massaging the donor areas for at least 1 week before the surgical procedure. It is best to begin massaging the scalp 2 to 4 weeks beforehand whenever possible. Massaging the scalp is especially important for individuals undergoing FUT procedures. The massages will soften the skin and increase its elasticity. This will help patients avoid a sensation of tightness or pulling on the sutures at the donor site. The massages should last between 10 and 30 minutes per day. Massaging the area of scalp receiving the transplant can also increase the patient’s comfort during and after the surgery.
It’s important to dress comfortably and appropriately on the day of the procedure. This includes wearing a shirt that does not require being pulled over the head. Rubbing the sutures and grafts with clothing can cause pain, discomfort, and the loss of hair grafts. Patients may want to continue to wear a shirt with buttons or zips for several days following the procedure.