You need to follow every instruction of the surgeon to prepare for a Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT). This will reduce the risk of complications during or after the surgery. This will also ensure that you have a fast and effective recovery after the surgery. Here is a brief overview of the guidelines you need to follow in the weeks and days prior to the surgery.
When the surgery is two weeks away:
It is recommended that you do not cut your hair short, especially on the sides and back of the scalp, during this time. If you cut your hair too short, the staples or sutures will be visible after the surgery.
It is also necessary to stop the consumption of blood-thinner medications from this time, as it may lead to complications during the surgery. Your surgeon may also advise you to replace a broad beta-blocker with a select one.
When the surgery is one week away:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory must be avoided at least a week before the surgery. If you take any medication, make sure you inform your surgeon about it. He/she will recommend whether you can continue to take the medication or not.
If you take a multivitamin, your surgeon may advise you to stop it. Vitamins B and E may increase the bleeding during the surgery. You may continue these vitamins after a few days of the FUT surgery.
Another thing you should avoid is smoking, as it has numerous adverse effects. The nicotine constricts the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the scalp and the carbon monoxide decreases the capacity of blood to carry oxygen. This may result is poor healing.
It is better to abstain from alcohol consumption as well. Any alcoholic beverages may result in complications in the surgery. These may also affect the healing time and manner. Your surgeon will advise you about the time for which you need to avoid these habits.
If you have the habit to dye or colour your hair, it is better not to do so within a week prior to the surgery. The chemical colours will not do any good to your hair. Moreover, it may lead to adverse chemical reactions with the drugs administered during the surgery.
When it is time for the surgery:
You need to wash your hair on the day of the surgery with your regular shampoo. However, you must not use any styling products after your shower. You must not wear any perfume or cologne as well.
After the surgery for hair transplants is complete, your head will be covered with a bandage similar to a headband. To make sure that it is not damaged in any way, you need to wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes on the day of the surgery.
You need to have a light breakfast or lunch on the day of the procedure. However, make sure you do not have any caffeinated beverages before the surgery. This may increase bleeding and make you sensitive to medications.
The administration of local anaesthesia and mild sedative may make you drowsy after the operation. This makes it necessary for you to arrange for a family member or a friend to drive you home after the surgery.