Swelling is a common side effect after hair transplant surgery, and it typically occurs around the forehead and eyes. Swelling after hair transplant surgery happens for several reasons.
During the hair transplant procedure, small incisions are made in the scalp to remove hair follicles from the donor area and implant them into the recipient area. These incisions, along with the insertion of the grafts, can cause trauma to the scalp, which triggers the body’s natural healing response. As a result, the body sends extra blood to the area, which can lead to swelling.
Another reason for swelling after surgery is the use of local anesthesia. Local anesthesia is used to numb the scalp during the procedure, and it can cause fluid buildup in the tissues, leading to swelling.
Swelling after hair transplant surgery can also be caused by the position of the patient’s head during the procedure. During the surgery, the patient’s head is tilted forward, which can cause blood to pool in the forehead and eyes, leading to swelling.
In most cases, swelling after hair transplant surgery is temporary and subsides within a few days to a week. However, in some cases, excessive swelling can be a sign of an infection or an allergic reaction, and patients should contact their surgeon if they experience prolonged or severe swelling.
Here are the top 5 tips to prevent swelling after hair transplant surgery:
- Apply Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the forehead and around the eyes can help reduce swelling after a hair transplant surgery. Cold compresses should be applied for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, for the first few days after the surgery.
- Sleep with your head elevated: Keeping your head elevated while sleeping can help prevent fluid buildup in the scalp, which can reduce swelling. It is recommended to sleep on two or three pillows or to use a wedge pillow to keep the head elevated at a 45-degree angle.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: It is important to avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, bending over, and other activities that may increase blood pressure, as this can exacerbate swelling. It is best to avoid such activities for the first few days after the surgery.
- Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins from the body and promote healing. Staying hydrated can also help prevent swelling after hair transplant surgery.
- Follow Post-operative Instructions: Following the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon is crucial to prevent swelling after hair transplant surgery. These instructions may include avoiding smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain medications that can increase the risk of swelling.
By following these tips, patients can help prevent swelling after hair transplant surgery and ensure a smooth recovery. However, it’s important to remember that some degree of swelling is normal and expected after the procedure, and it usually subsides within a few days to a week.
