Hair Transplant Crust/Scab Removal
I recently had a hair transplant about two weeks ago and I still have a number of scabs/crusts in the area where the hairs were transplanted. Is their anything i can do to facilitate their removal? I have to go back to work in a few days and I can’t wear a hat.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Scabs from hair transplantation typically fall off between 7-14 days depending on the number of hair grafts received, how densely packed they are, and the size of the incision made in the recipient sites. It is always important to follow your hair restoration physician’s postoperative instructions. So be sure to obtain a copy of these instructions from your hair transplant doctor if not already received.
Personally what I have been advised to do by my hair transplant clinic that has worked wonders for me is to gently massage the scabs with my fingertips in the shower in a circular motion. It is extremely important NOT to force the scabs off nor to use your nails. In addition to normal shower time, you should spend at least 10 minutes doing this. I have found that showering twice a day and repeating this process significantly reduces the length of time the scabs/crusts remain. It is safe to start doing this between 5-7 days post-op. Start with a very gentle circular massage and gradually increase to massaging the scalp with normal pressure each day.
Whatever you do, do not force the scabs off. Gentle and consistent circular motions with your finger tips should slowly work them off the follicular unit grafts.
Do not be alarmed if hairs are visible in the scabs that fall off. This is normal. Typically hair sheds between two to four weeks anyway. As long as no blood is seen, the grafts are safe.
Bill
Associate Publisher
Technorati Tags: hair transplant, hair transplantation, hair grafts, hair restoration, hair transplant doctor, hair transplant clinic, follicular unit graft, hair shed
May 3, 2011 @ 2:38 pm
Jeff,
By day 7, the grafts are pretty much anchored and since you spent a minimal amount of time in the sun, you’re probably okay. However, keep in mind that avoiding excessive sun post-operation is usually recommended, but unless the burn was severe it probably will not affect the final result. However, I would recommend contacting your clinic and confirming that you’re following all post-operative instructions carefully (and ask them the same question to make sure the time spent in the sun was okay).
Good luck!
Blake (Future_HT_Doc)
Editorial Assistant
April 28, 2011 @ 12:02 pm
Seven days post surgery I went for an appointment in a city and spent about 30 mins walking around on a sunny day. I didn’t get sunburnt and felt no ill effects on my recipient area but am I likely to have done any damage to my grafts and thus my likely results?