Steps To Prevent Forehead Swelling After Hair Transplant

Swelling on the forehead is a common and pretty normal side effect of a hair transplant. It usually starts on the 2^nd or 3^rd day and under the action of gravity, moves down to the eyes and nose area before subsiding within 3 to 5 days. Swelling mostly reduces within a week, but if it persists for more than a week, discuss it with your doctor as it can lead to complications. You can significantly minimize the chances of swelling by following a few simple tips.

Here are steps to prevent forehead swelling after hair transplant:

Keep the Head Elevated:

The first and foremost thing that you have to do to minimize the chances of swelling is to keep your head elevated at an angle of 45 degrees at least, even while you sleep. For the first few nights sleep in a reclining chair or use several pillows to elevate your head. This not only reduces swelling but also minimizes the chances of developing infection and damage to the transplanted follicles.

Use Prescription Medications:

There are certain medicines that help reduce swelling and your surgeon may prescribe you one following a hair transplant. Some anti-inflammatory drugs also help reduce swelling but you should use only those prescribed by the doctor and according to the prescription. A very low dosage of certain steroids also helps in reducing forehead swelling. Discuss with your doctor if steroid injections will be of any help for you.

Use Cold Compressions:

Cold compressions also offer relief from swelling symptoms. Cold compressions work by decreasing blood flow to the problem areas by constricting the tiny blood vessels. Use cold compressions after surgery, but be very gentle, as applying any undue pressure can dislodge freshly transplanted follicles. Also, don’t apply too much cold as it may affect the growth of transplanted follicles. Cold compressions also help control post-surgical bleeding.

Avoid Excessive Physical Activity:

You may be allowed to resume routine activities after 3 to 4 days post-transplant, but avoid indulging in any strenuous physical activity as it can increase swelling. It may also result in bursting of swelling, which can ultimately cause blood clots. Besides that, vigorous physical activities will cause you to sweat, and sweating can hinder the healing process by increasing the chances of infection.

Avoid Blood Thinners:

Blood-thinning drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and their derivatives should be avoided for at least a week after hair transplant as these drugs can increase blood flow to the scalp, elevating swelling.

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