Are my grafts secure after 7 days?

If you have recently undergone a hair transplant procedure, it is normal to be concerned about the security of your newly implanted grafts. After investing significant time and money into restoring your hair, it is understandable that you want to protect the investment you have made. Knowing what to expect regarding graft security in the first week post-operation can provide reassurance that your transplanted hair is off to a good start.

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What happens in the first week after a hair transplant?

The first 7 days after your hair transplant surgery are a critical period. During this time, the grafts are taking hold and beginning to form new connections in the scalp. Here is a look at the timeline of what happens during the first week of recovery:

Days 1-2: The grafts are still establishing new blood supplies. Swelling and scabbing are common as the incisions heal.
Days 3-4: Scabs begin falling off. Transplanted hairs may fall out temporarily. This is normal as the follicles enter the resting phase before re-growing.
Days 5-7: Scabs resolve. Redness and swelling continue improving. Grafts are becoming more secure in their new location.

It is normal to lose some of the transplanted hairs within the first 7-10 days as the grafts shed the old hairs and prepare to re-grow. The important thing is that the follicle itself remains intact and fixed in place.

Are the grafts prone to falling out during this time?

There is minimal risk of the entire graft becoming dislodged during the first week if care instructions are properly followed. Here are some factors that help keep grafts stable:

Scabbing helps bind grafts in place during initial healing.

Swelling pushes skin against grafts to add stability.
Grafts begin to establish new blood vessels within 2-3 days.
Dissolvable sutures may provide added early stability.

Avoiding trauma or bumps to the scalp prevents graft disruption.

While small scab loss or minor graft movement can occur, the probability of complete graft dislodgement is very low after 5-7 days when proper post-op care is followed.

Does wetting or washing the hair impact graft security?

Normal wetting or washing of the hair does not affect graft security by 1 week post-op. Here are some points to keep in mind:

Scabs should be allowed to naturally soften and shed between days 4-7 before intentionally washing the scalp.
Use a gentle spray of water to loosen scabs. Do not scrub or pick them.
Once scabs naturally shed, gentle hair washing can begin around day 7.

Take care not to dislodge any lingering scabs until they are ready to come off.
Rinse with a shower spray nozzle or cups of water until the donor area has fully healed.

Washing does not disrupt the grafts, which are embedded within the skin. Normal wetting and gentle hair washing promotes healing when scabs have naturally resolved.

When can I resume normal activity after a hair transplant?

Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 2 weeks post-op. Here are some general guidelines on resuming normal activity:

Days 1-5: Rest and limit activity to basic self-care.
Days 5-7: Light mobility around the home and short walks are ok.

Days 7-14: Avoid exercise, yardwork, swimming, sports.
Day 14: Can consider light exercise if fully healed.
Day 21: Resume all normal activities and sports if there is no more redness, swelling or tenderness.

The main considerations with physical activity are avoiding trauma to the grafts until they are stable and limiting blood flow to the scalp during the early healing period. Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions on when it is safe to resume any contact sports or strenuous activity.

What precautions should I take when sleeping?

Proper sleeping position and precaution are important in the first weeks after surgery. Follow these tips:

Sleep with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows to reduce swelling.

Avoid sleeping on your sides or stomach, which puts pressure on the scalp.
Use neck pillows and rolled towels for support if side-sleeping is unavoidable.
Do not sleep with direct pressure on the scalp for 3-4 weeks.

Protect donor wounds from rubbing on bedding with a head cap or towel.

Take measures to protect the scalp from pressure, friction, and contact for at least 1-2 weeks. This will protect grafts until they are fully stable and integrated.

When can I resume wearing hats and helmets?

Hats, helmets, headbands and other headwear should be avoided until the scalp is fully healed. Here are some general guidelines:

Days 1-14: Avoid any contact with the scalp from headwear.
Days 14-21: Softer hats may be tolerated if they do not put pressure on healing areas.
Day 21: Firm headwear including sports helmets can be worn once fully healed.

The fit of any headwear is the most important factor. Anything tight-fitting, heavy or causing friction should be avoided for 3 weeks. This protects the grafts while they stabilize and prevents bleeding or scab loss.

What if I accidentally bump or hit my head?

Minor bumps or accidental knocks to the head can happen during normal daily activity after a hair transplant. Here is how to handle it:

Do not panic. A minor bump is unlikely to cause graft dislodgement.

Avoid direct trauma to transplanted areas for 2 weeks if possible.
Check for any signs of new bleeding at the transplant sites.
Contact your surgeon if you have concerns or observe any damage.

Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed for discomfort.
Resume caution to avoid any further trauma to the area.

While accidental bumps can happen, the grafts are designed to stay in place barring any major trauma. Monitor any new pain or bleeding and contact your provider with concerns.

When can I resume wearing hair fibers or concealer?

Hair fibers and cosmetic products should be avoided until complete healing has occurred. Here are some general timelines:

Days 1-14: Do not apply any hair fibers, sprays or concealer.
Days 14-21: Powder concealers may be used sparingly if scalp is fully closed.

Day 21: Hair fibers, creams or waxes can be used if totally healed.

It is important that all scabbing and crusting has fully resolved before applying any cosmetic products. Pressure or friction from fibers before day 21 can disturb healing grafts. Always check with your provider’s specific guidelines on concealer use after surgery.

Conclusion

The first week after hair transplant surgery is a pivotal time when grafts are taking hold and becoming integrated with their new blood supply. While normal shedding, swelling, scabbing and redness occur, the grafts themselves become increasingly stable and secure within the scalp. By following proper post-operative care instructions, you can support graft integration and minimize the risks of complications. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon or care team during the recovery period.