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Preparing for Hair Transplantation Surgery- Saturday, November 10, 2007

As many people search for hair loss help, they discover hair transplantation as a viable hair restoration option to regrow hair. Though selection of a qualified hair transplant doctor can be tricky, with proper research and online evidence of consistent positive hair transplant results - one can select a hair transplant clinic with confidence.

Many people have asked on our hair restoration forum what they can do to prepare for hair transplantation surgery. Though it is always best to get preoperative instructions directly from the hair restoration clinic, below I've provided a list of general preoperative instructions that I have received before my three hair transplant procedures.  Please note that many hair restoration clinics will vary on some of these items, including variables of time.

• Scalp Exercises: Performing Scalp Exercises at least 1 month (preferably longer) before undergoing hair transplant surgery is recommended to help increase scalp elasticity. 
  
• Products that thin the blood: It is important to stop the use of anything that thins the blood, including aspirin, multi-vitamins, and MSM (some people use this to speed up the hair growth process). Thinner blood during surgery will cause additional complications such as extreme bleeding and trouble blood clotting.
  
• Rogaine: Stop use of Rogaine (minoxodil) prior to hair restoration surgery. 
  
• Diet: Eat a healthy breakfast the day of the hair transplant procedure.
  
• Alcohol: Do not drink any alcohol prior to surgery.  Get specifics on time frame from the hair transplant clinic.
  
• Rest: Get plenty of rest the night before the hair restoration surgery.
  
• Documentation: This is especially important if you are traveling to visit an out of town hair transplant clinic. Make sure you gather all travel documentation and materials needed as early as possible. Do not wait until the last minute
  
• Relax: It is extremely important to relax as you prepare for hair transplantation. Try to do your best to keep anxiety level down.  From personal experience, I was significantly helped by seeking help and support from veteran hair transplant patients on our hair restoration discussion forums.  It also helps to talk to and get support from close friends and family as they can be there to encourage you.