Staple/Suture Removal After a Hair Transplant
This insightful article was written by forum discussion member “Spex” who is also a showcase for Dr. Feller of Great Neck, NY.
Staple/Suture Removal
The staples or sutures (depending on the hair transplant surgeon’s technique) typically remain in place for approximately 10 days post surgery. Hair transplant surgeons encourage that you come back to the hair restoration clinic to have them removed, but will provide you with instructions for removing them should a visit to the surgeon not be possible. You may also see your local general practioner who will be able to remove the staples/sutures.
The donor scar that will remain once the staples or sutures are removed will become less and less noticeable as months pass and will eventually turn into a pencil thin, white line.
TIP: Prior to having the staples removed or sutures removed (this tip is more applicable to staples), have a long shower and soak the donor area. When scabs are dry, there tends to be a tiny pinch when the staples are removed. Soaking the donor area will moisten the scabs and minimize any discomfort.
—
Bill
Associate Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network and the Hair Loss Learning Center
View my Hair Loss Weblog
Technorati Tags: hair transplant, Hair transplant surgeon, hair restoration, donor scar
December 1, 2011 @ 4:05 am
Randy,
I think you will find that much of the discomfort will subside once your staples are removed. However, you may experience itching as the suture heals. This is normal and can be alleviated by applying aloe vera gel.
Coalition hair restoration physician Dr. Robert Bernstein also recommends Hydrocortisone Ointment 1% for itching. It must be in Ointment form, not a cream.
For mild pain, I suggest a non-aspirin pain reliever like Tylenol. If you experience significant pain one week after surgery, contact your hair transplant surgeon.
I hope this answers your question.
November 30, 2011 @ 1:47 pm
I just had my second procedure and will have staples removed in several days. Is there any over the counter product that can further minimize the discomfort?