✅ General Pre-Operative Instructions for Hair Transplant (FUE/FUT)
These are general guidelines, but always confirm with your specific surgeon or clinic.
✅ 1–2 Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop blood thinners: Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen, and other NSAIDs. They can increase bleeding risk. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually allowed.
- Discontinue supplements: Stop using vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and other herbal supplements unless your doctor says otherwise.
- No alcohol or smoking:
- Alcohol: Stop 3–5 days before surgery.
- Smoking: Ideally, stop 1–2 weeks before and after surgery. Smoking restricts blood flow and may impair healing and graft survival.
- Inform your surgeon: Notify your doctor of any medications, health conditions, or recent illnesses.
✅ 3–5 Days Before Surgery
- Stop using topical hair products: Discontinue Minoxidil (Rogaine) or similar products unless told otherwise.
- Start taking prescribed medications: Some clinics prescribe antibiotics or antivirals before surgery to prevent infection.
✅ Day Before Surgery
- Wash your hair with a mild, non-medicated shampoo (like baby shampoo or one recommended by your surgeon).
- Get good rest: A full night’s sleep helps your body prepare.
- No alcohol or caffeine.
✅ Day of Surgery
- Shower and shampoo your hair again. Do not apply any styling products (gel, spray, etc.).
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes: A button-down or zip-up shirt is best to avoid pulling clothes over your head post-op.
- Avoid caffeine: It can increase bleeding and interfere with anesthesia.
- Have a light breakfast, unless instructed otherwise.
- Arrange transportation: You will likely not be allowed to drive afterward due to sedation.
⚠️ Important Reminders
- Bring all necessary paperwork, ID, and payment (if applicable).
- Some clinics allow music or podcasts during surgery — ask ahead.
- Expect to be at the clinic for 4–8 hours, depending on the number of grafts.
