If you are considering getting a hair transplant, then conduct detailed research and have a thorough discussion with your surgeon to make an informed decision. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplant) are the two most popular forms of hair transplant procedures. Both of these procedures involve extracting healthy hair follicles from the donor area (the portion of the scalp that has dense hair growth) and transplanting them on the recipient area where there is hair loss. To transplant these hair follicles, the surgeon punctures minute incisions into the scalp, where the follicular grafts are implanted with great precision.
Hair transplants have become very common these days. However, what is most important is how well you follow your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions and take care of your grafts to achieve optimum results from your hair transplant procedure. Just after the transplant, the hair grafts are extremely sensitive and should not be touched. For the first 5-6 days following the treatment, you will be given proper instructions, including taking care of your grafts, covering your head, when to wear a hat, etc.
How soon can I wear a hat after a hair transplant procedure?
One of the most common questions most patients have is how soon they can wear a hat after a hair transplant. Following the hair transplant, the scalp may be swollen, and you may experience some bleeding and scabbing for the first few days. During this period, you might be comfortable covering your scalp to hide the hair transplant. However, surgeons recommend waiting 7 to 10 days before wearing anything over the scalp until the grafts are permanently anchored. Wearing a hat could risk the grafts getting compressed, damaged, or displaced. Damaging the grafts could create empty patches on the scalp and jeopardize the entire hair transplant recovery process. After 7 to 10 days, once the grafts are permanently anchored, wearing a hat is considered safe.
Are there other ways to conceal the scalp after a hair transplant?
Your surgeon will suggest you wait at least 10 days before you start wearing hats or other head accessories. However, if you still wish to cover your scalp, your surgeon would recommend wearing a loose, easily adjustable hood or a hat. Your doctor can guide you with the most appropriate type of hat. It would also be wise to select your clothing accordingly. Avoid wearing clothes that require going over your head to be worn or removed. Instead, choose to wear tops with zips or buttons at the front.
What precautions should be taken while wearing headpieces?
You must ensure that you do not let your hat touch the implanted grafts while wearing it and taking it off. Take all the necessary precautions to not damage the implanted grafts. Wear headpieces made of soft fabrics. Avoid cotton, as it can stick to the scalp. If you wear a hat, make sure that it is clean. Wash your hat thoroughly if it gets stained with dirt or blood, to avoid any infection. Also, do not wear the hat or any other headwear for long intervals and over 5-6 hours a day.
You must follow all aftercare instructions and advice from your surgeon to get optimum results from your hair transplant.
Want to learn more about the best hair transplant options in New Jersey? Book an appointment today with our expert surgeon at New Jersey Hair Restoration Center.
