Hair loss, affecting both men and women, often begins in the twenties and can significantly impact self-esteem and social interaction. Hair transplantation in Istanbul offers a natural and permanent remedy, performed under local anesthesia using either Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) or Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) methods. During this safe and painless procedure, patients can relax by watching TV or listening to music.
The procedure involves transferring hair follicles from the donor area, usually the back of the scalp, to the thinning regions. For Afro-American patients, the naturally curly hair necessitates experienced teams due to the complexities of extraction and implantation.
With modern techniques and specialized expertise, hair transplantation not only restores hair but also ensures aesthetically pleasing and lasting results, making the recovery comfortable and manageable for the patient.
Hair Transplant Operation Guide
1. Preparation and Operation Procedure
- Duration: The operation can last up to 10 hours due to numerous grafts at maximum capacity.
- Post-Operative Swelling: Swelling in the face is normal and may clear within a few days to a week.
- Graft Shedding: Transplanted hairs typically shed around 3-4 weeks post-operation.
- Hair Growth: Initial growth starts after 3 months, with significant progress by 6-8 months, and reaching original thickness generally after 1 year.
2. Post-Operative Care
- Medication and Bandages: Take prescribed medications and remove bandages as directed the day after the operation or during your next visit for hair washing.
- Sleeping Position: Sleep only on your back (supine position) for the first week. Avoid sleeping on your sides or stomach to prevent contact with the transplant area. Using a U-shaped travel pillow can offer extra comfort and protection for the grafts during sleep.
- Physical Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities including gym, swimming, and contact sports for up to 45 days to protect the transplantation area.
- Sun Exposure and Heat: Stay out of direct sunlight, swimming pools, Turkish baths, and saunas for a month.
- Alcohol and Smoking: Avoid alcohol for 15 days and minimize smoking. If consuming alcohol after 15 days, do so in moderation for the next 3 months.
3. How to Wash Your Hair Post-Operation
- First Wash: We will wash your hair 2 days after the operation and demonstrate the proper technique.
- Panthenol Spray Application: Shake the Panthenol Spray and apply it generously to the transplanted area, ensuring the foam covers all the grafts. Wait 1 hour to soften the scabs. Do not apply to the donor area.
- Rinsing: Use lukewarm water (not too warm) to gently rinse off the spray. Ensure the water pressure is very low to avoid disturbing the grafts.
- Shampoo Application: Lather shampoo between your hands and apply to both the transplanted and donor areas using very light pressure. Avoid rubbing. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Drying: Use a paper towel to pat both areas dry gently, without rubbing. You can use a hairdryer set to its lowest, cool setting from a distance after 5 days.
- Scabs and Massage: After 7 days, you may begin lightly massaging the transplanted area with your fingertips to help scabs fall off naturally. By day 14, all scabs should have shed. Continue using your prescribed shampoo until it's finished, then switch to your preferred products.
4. Long-Term Hair and Activity Guidelines
- Hats and Shaving: Do not wear hats for at least 10 days. You may have a haircut with scissors after 3 months and use an electric shaver after 6 months.
- Hair Dyeing and Products: Dyeing and styling products such as gels and sprays can be used after 6 months.
- Gym and Sports: Avoid gym activities for 1 month and contact sports for 45 days.