It is generally advised to avoid travelling for at least two weeks following the procedure. And there are important precautions to take even after that.
Sunscreen will be essential, and certain travel destinations or activities may not be ideal during the recovery phase. So, read on to learn all the details you need to know before making any travel plans after your hair transplant.
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure, and it does require following proper healing recommendations. So, here is an insight into the healing process and recovery period after your hair transplant surgery:
The first seven days after a hair transplant surgery are a critical period as the grafts settle in. Following the removal of the bandage on day 1 after the surgery, discomforts like swelling, itching, pain, and scabs are common. It is usually prevented with the application of a cold press to the swollen area.
Around day 5, the scalp will be healed enough for a gentle wash with lukewarm water. Alongside the transplanted hair grafts that are getting stronger, minor bleeding can also be experienced for a few days.
The first post-op checkup is done after the first week to monitor the progress. In the case of the FUT (follicular unit transplantation) procedure, the stitches are removed after 7 to 10 days of hair transplant. The soreness, redness, and swelling in the scalp are reduced mostly, and crusts will start to fall out.
The hair grafts, now settled in, enter a natural growth cycle, which includes a resting phase followed by a shock loss period. This process helps to preserve the follicles as they adjust to their new environment.
As hair loss or shock loss is part of the natural growth cycle of hair follicles, it is common after 10 days of hair transplant. However, the length of this natural shedding after hair transplant differs among different individuals, and it can last up to 2 months.
After one month of hair transplantation, the shock loss will be intense. In addition to that, you can feel mood swings, which are completely natural.
During the 2nd month, hair loss gradually decreases, and hair growth will be uneven due to the growth of different follicles at different rates. However, new hair growth is significantly observed during the 3rd month, and after the 6th month, the hair growth is rapid with 80% coverage. Thus, the hair strands appear to be healthy, thicker, and stronger.
Also, it is mandatory to follow checkups every month until the 6th month to monitor your hair growth progress.
After a year of your successful hair transplantation, the final hair transplant consultation is done to check the hair growth as well as the hairline. As you will achieve 100% recovery and full hair growth, you can style your hair as you desire using any hair styling products without any fear.
During a hair transplant, the skin undergoes surgical trauma, making it highly sensitive. Additionally, the grafts themselves are particularly vulnerable to UV radiation. So, exposure to sunlight can be harmful and cause damage to the newly implanted grafts.
Moreover, chromophores, which normally protect the skin from sunlight, become inactivated or damaged during the procedure. Since these chromophores take time to regenerate, the newly transplanted grafts are at risk when exposed to sunlight.
It is best to stay out of direct sunlight for at least two weeks post-transplantation. After two weeks of the recovery period, it is recommended to use sunscreen and a hat to go out in the sunlight.
Even after 6 months, the recommended precautions should be followed for 100% effective and rapid recovery.
If you are thinking about a long or short holiday after your hair transplant, it is important to consider the following checklist before you plan your holiday itinerary;
The ideal time to plan your short holiday is at least one week after your hair transplantation, and your long holiday is at least one-month post-hair transplantation.
Try to plan a destination that does not require a long flight. During a long flight, the combination of sitting for extended periods, changes in cabin pressure, and lack of movement can lead to increased blood circulation to the head, which may heighten the swelling in the scalp area.
If you are traveling after 2 weeks of hair transplantation, then your itinerary should not include activities like swimming, trekking, sunbathing, or any strenuous activity that makes you sweat.
Instead, it is recommended to include activities such as sightseeing, visiting museums, taking nature walks, etc.
To be safe, you should plan your holiday after the recommended recovery period, ideally at least one-month post-hair transplant. However, if you wish to travel before that, make sure to stay safe by avoiding direct sunlight, strenuous activities, and extreme temperatures.
However, it’s always best to consult with a professional to ensure you’re making the right decision for your recovery. For surgeon advice, book an appointment with Zestige for transparent and honest consultations. They provide dedicated transplant surgeons and superior aftercare services.
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