Side Effects
Side Effects
Hair transplant procedures may lead to several common side effects, such as swelling, bleeding, itching, crusting, and shock loss, resulting in temporary hair loss. In addition, while rare, some patients may also experience complications such as infections.
Pain after the surgery
The pain will likely be more intense in the evening and the day after the surgery. It may be felt in both the donor and implanted areas and is often described as a graze-like pain but is typically not severe. Many small cuts are made to the scalp during the hair transplant procedure. Once the local anaesthesia wears off, it is possible to feel some of these cuts. However, the worst pain should have subsided by the following day, and patients should start feeling more comfortable. In some cases, if the transplant is extensive, mild discomfort may persist for one to two weeks after the procedure.
Over-the-counter pain medications like Paracetamol with Ibuprofen (or Nurofen) can manage the pain after a hair transplant. However, if the pain persists or is severe, patients should discuss it with their hair transplant surgeon to explore other treatment options.
If the pain does not subside or is persistent, seeking medical attention and consulting with the surgeon is essential. Sometimes, the pain can indicate another issue, such as poor implantation of grafts or delayed scalp healing due to over-harvesting.
Swelling after surgery
Swelling or oedema is a common side effect of hair transplants and typically occurs in the forehead for 2-6 days after the procedure. In rare cases, swelling can extend to the eyelid, which may delay the patient’s return to work. However, this condition is temporary, and the eyes will eventually heal.
Swelling occurs as a result of inflammation caused by the surgical procedure. This inflammation causes the scalp tissue to swell and feel tight, and the swelling can sometimes spread to the forehead and affect the eyes.
Anti-inflammatory medications like dexamethasone (a steroid) are often prescribed to treat swelling. This medication is taken twice daily and helps reduce swelling in most patients.
If the swelling persists for more than 7-10 days or begins to affect the eyes, patients should contact their hair transplant surgeon for advice on managing the side effects. While swelling can be uncomfortable, it is a temporary side effect that will eventually disappear.
Bleeding After Surgery
Bleeding is a common side effect that can occur immediately after a hair transplant. The back of the head, where hair follicles have been removed, may ooze on the day of the surgery. This will stop after the procedure, and scabs will develop. The area will gradually heal over the next few days or weeks.
Bleeding in the area where follicles have been implanted can also be expected on the day of the procedure. However, bleeding the day after the surgery could indicate that an implanted hair follicle has been dislodged or removed.
To treat bleeding, gently apply pressure to the affected area with a clean swab, cotton bud, or cloth. Avoid rubbing the area, as this can dislodge hair follicles. The bleeding should eventually stop, and patients should notify their surgeon if they suspect they have lost a hair follicle.
Patients should contact their surgeon immediately to schedule an appointment if bleeding persists despite applying light pressure.
Itching After Surgery
Itching after a hair transplant is a common side effect due to the scalp’s healing process and inflammation. It usually starts around 4-5 days after the procedure and can last up to a month. Itching can damage or dislodge the newly implanted hair follicles, so it’s important not to scratch the scalp.
There are several ways to manage itching after a hair transplant, such as using a salt water spray, taking antihistamines, using medicated shampoos, or applying a steroid scalp solution. Some of these solutions may be included in the aftercare pack provided by the surgeon. However, it’s best to follow the surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions and contact them if the itching persists or becomes severe.
Crusting After Surgery
Scabbing or crusting in the donor and implanted areas is a normal part of the healing process after a hair transplant. The scabs are formed from dried blood and fluid settling around each implanted hair. However, it’s important not to pick at the scabs as they may damage the newly implanted grafts.
To prevent the formation of hard crusts, it’s recommended to spray the grafts regularly during the first four days after surgery. Once you start washing on the 5th day, soak the crusts for 5-10 minutes and gently wash the area, letting the water trickle over instead of spraying directly. After 1-2 weeks, the crusting should clear up.
Hair Loss After Surgery
Hair loss, referred to as “shock loss,” is a typical result of FUE hair transplant surgery. Don’t be concerned if this occurs because it’s a natural occurrence. Shock loss typically begins after the first week of surgery. After the excessive shedding has stopped, new hairs will start to grow and replace the lost ones over the next 8-12 months.
Infection After Surgery
It’s important to note that while the risk of infection during a hair transplant is low, it is still possible. Infection can occur as early as a day after the procedure, causing the scalp to feel hot, painful, and itchy. It can also manifest as small, painful yellow bumps in the area of the new grafts.
In the event of an infection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Antibiotic tablets are typically prescribed to treat the infection, and they can begin working within one to two days. If caught early, there should be no risk to the grafts. Sometimes, a cream may also be recommended to help fight the infection.
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