Things To Consider Before Hair Transplant

Things To Consider Before A Hair Transplant

Preparing properly before a hair transplant can improve comfort during the procedure and support smoother healing afterward. Most clinics recommend pausing smoking, alcohol, blood-thinning medications and certain supplements, and limiting caffeine close to surgery. You’ll also want to avoid sunburn, stop irritating scalp products, and plan practical clothing and meals for the day.

Why Preparation Matters

A hair transplant is a medical procedure, and small choices you make beforehand can affect bleeding, swelling, graft stability, and recovery comfort. This is why clinics provide pre-op rules and timelines. If you’re unsure about any step, follow your surgeon’s instructions over general advice.

Stop Smoking And Tobacco Products

Many clinics advise stopping smoking and all tobacco products at least a few days before the procedure, and ideally longer, because nicotine can reduce blood flow and slow healing. Some clinics recommend stopping one to two weeks ahead for better support of recovery.

If quitting completely feels difficult, ask your clinic what minimum pause they require and whether nicotine alternatives are allowed.

Avoid Alcohol Before The Procedure

Alcohol can increase bleeding risk and negatively affect hydration and recovery. A common recommendation is to stop alcohol about 7 days before a hair transplant, while some guidance ranges from 48–72 hours to 1 week depending on the clinic and anesthesia plan.

If you’re taking any medication that interacts with alcohol, treat this as a strict rule.

Review Blood Thinners, Painkillers, And Supplements

Blood thinners can increase bleeding during and after transplantation. Many clinics advise stopping aspirin/NSAIDs (and similar blood-thinning medications) several days before the procedure, but the exact timing depends on your medical history. Never stop prescribed anticoagulants without medical approval.

Also mention supplements to your doctor—some (like high-dose vitamin E, omega-3/fish oil, garlic, ginkgo, and ginger) may have blood-thinning effects and are commonly paused 7–10 days before surgery.

Limit Caffeine And Certain Teas

Some clinics ask patients to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks close to surgery because caffeine may increase blood pressure and sensitivity during the procedure. Practical guidance commonly ranges from 24–48 hours before, and some clinics recommend longer.

Green tea is also frequently paused in the week before treatment in clinic instructions. If you’re not sure what applies to you, ask for your clinic’s exact “stop list.”

Pause Scalp Lotions, Medicated Shampoos, And Hair Products

If you use medicated lotions, topical treatments, or strong scalp products, many clinics ask you to stop them in advance—often around 2–4 weeks—to reduce irritation and sensitivity. If you use minoxidil or prescription topicals, follow your clinic’s protocol rather than guessing.

On the day of the procedure, arrive with clean hair and avoid styling products such as gel, wax, or spray.

Avoid Sunburn And Tanning

Sunburned or irritated scalp and upper-body skin can make the procedure and healing more uncomfortable. Avoid intense sun exposure and tanning in the weeks before your transplant. If you must be outdoors, use protective clothing and shade rather than risking a burn.

Plan Your Clothing For Surgery Day

Choose loose, comfortable clothing that won’t rub the recipient or donor area when changing. Button-up shirts, zip hoodies, or cardigans are practical because you don’t need to pull them over your head. This helps reduce accidental friction on newly treated areas.

Eat Light—But Don’t Arrive Hungry

Hair transplant sessions often last several hours, so arriving with a light meal can help you feel steady and comfortable. If your procedure is in the morning, choose a light breakfast. If it’s later in the day, eat easy-to-digest foods beforehand.

Your clinic may provide specific food and drink instructions, especially if sedation is planned.

Choose A Qualified Team And Stay In Communication

A hair transplant should be planned and performed under medical supervision with a trained team. Beyond the procedure itself, consistent follow-up matters—before, during, and after surgery. If anything changes in your health (fever, infection, new medication), notify your clinic right away.

Hair Center of Turkey positions its service as a boutique, VIP-style clinic experience and emphasizes specialist-led care.

Sleeping Position: The First Night And The First Week

The first days are sensitive because grafts are settling. Many clinics advise sleeping on your back with your head elevated (often around a 45-degree angle) to reduce swelling and avoid contact with the transplanted area.

For the first 7–10 days, avoid sleeping on your side if it risks rubbing the recipient area. After that, follow your doctor’s guidance based on where your transplant was performed and how healing is progressing.

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