The first week after a hair transplant
Sleeping position, first wash, swelling, crusts and returning to work: a calm day-by-day guide.
When the procedure ends, the most important part of healing begins. The first week is when grafts anchor and channels close. This guide is general information; the written aftercare instructions you receive always come first.
Day 1: rest
You rest at your hotel on the evening of the procedure. There may be a bandage on the donor area. Sleeping on your back with your head slightly raised and a neck pillow is recommended. Do not touch the treated area, do not wear a hat and avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects.
Day 2: check-up and first wash
At the centre you have a check-up, the bandage is removed and our team shows you the first wash: lather pressed gently with the palm, then rinsed with lukewarm, low-pressure water. Rubbing or touching with your nails is not allowed.
Days 3–5: swelling
Swelling of the forehead and around the eyes may appear and usually moves downwards before fading. Keeping your head raised and cold application as advised by your doctor help. It resolves on its own; if you have pain, fever or marked redness, message your coordinator.
Days 6–10: crusts
Small crusts form around each graft. Daily washing softens them and they shed around days 10–14. Picking crusts can damage grafts.
What to avoid in the first week
- Pools, the sea, sauna and steam rooms
- Heavy exercise and heavy sweating
- Direct sun
- Alcohol and smoking (they slow healing)
- Hot blow-drying
Medication
Your doctor prescribes any medication considered necessary. Always tell us in advance about medicines you take regularly, and do not start or stop medication without asking your doctor.
Returning to work
Most people with desk jobs return within 3–5 days. Because crusts are visible, some prefer to wait 10 days. For physically demanding work, discuss timing with your doctor.
Reminders and contact
In the Folyara patient portal you can see washing and medication reminders, upload photos from the first days and message your coordinator. If you are unsure about anything, asking is always the right step.
The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation. The method, graft number and timeline suitable for you can only be determined after an examination. Simulations are illustrative and are not a promise of results.
