Swelling
Due to the local anesthetic and the liquid sprayed into the scalp during the treatment, a swelling will occur on the forehead after the treatment. This swelling will occur at its worst on the face from the 2nd until the 4th day after the operation. If the area around the eyes is swollen, it can seriously restrict your vision. After that, the swelling will gradually subside and decrease. The moisture will be eliminated from the body via the lymph glands.
A few tips to restrict the swelling
- Try to keep your head straight and not bend forward
- Regular cooling with the cool pack after the treatment eases the swelling. Only cool the forehead/eyes, never the transplantation area. After using, put the cool pack back in the refrigerator, preferably not in the freezer compartment
- Drink a lot of water
Inflammation
If there is an inflammation, usually clear symptoms can be observed, such as redness and a painful, hot sensation. If these phenomena appear, please contact our clinic as soon as possible. A course of antibiotics will be prescribed (Azithromycine 250 or 500mg) if necessary. Azithromycine is also administered preventively during the surgery to prevent inflammation.
Hyperesthesia of the scalp
In some cases, mostly after FUE, a hyperesthesia of the scalp may occur. Hyperesthesia of the scalp, i.e. an enhanced sensibility of the scalp/an irritation of the nerve tissue, is a rather uncommon side effect caused by the extraction of the follicular units.
The medication Diclofenac 100mg (against pain and antiphlogistic effect) in combination with the vitamins should lessen the uncomfortable feeling already after 2-3 days
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) 100-200mg a day
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) 50-100mg a day
- Niacin 50mg a day
- Vitamin B6 50mg a day
- Biotin 200-300mg a day
- Vitamin B12 50mcg! a day (e.g. Vitasprint ampoules, 1 ampoule every other day)
Formation of scabs
In the first few days after the treatment, scabs will form on the transplantation area. After about 7-10 days, these scabs should come off unaided, and often, hairs will detach with them. This is a natural process. The hair roots are weakened after the operation by a reduced oxygen supply, and the transplanted hairs which will fall out. Since the hair roots are only weakened but not damaged, they will produce strong hairs again, which will be visible after about 4 to 12 months. We point out that in some cases, in densification treatments, nearby hairs can fall out as well, and will also be visible after a similar period (postoperative Shockloss).
Please note – All scabs should be removed 2 weeks after the procedure! In case they do not come off unaided, it is advisable to take a long shower to moisturize the scabs and to put a hydrating lotion (Aloe Vera or Bepanthen, Nivea-Lotion) on the recipient area, leave it to soak for half an hour, if possible under a plastic shower cap, and try to remove the scabs by firmly rubbing during the shampoo. Repeat this every day until all scabs are removed.
Itching
In the first few days after the hair transplant, you may experience itching both in the transplantation area and in the donor area. The healing process is often associated with itching, so there is no need to worry. Try to avoid scratching (hard), especially in the transplantation area.
