How to Reduce Pain After Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
Thanks to advances in surgery and technology, follicular unit extraction (FUE) can effectively treat balding with natural results. It is not without side effect, however, one of which is post-surgical soreness.
Dr. Raymond Konior of the Chicago Hair Institute takes great care when performing any sort of hair restoration procedure. The team here would like to consider the issue of post-surgical pain and how patents can reduce the discomfort they feel following FUE.
Is follicular unit extraction (FUE) painful?
Thankfully follicular unit extraction (FUE) is not very painful, though discomfort and soreness are both common side effects after undergoing the procedure.
Advances in hair restoration surgery and modern microsurgery techniques have greatly reduced pain felt by patients in the aftermath of surgery, particularly when compared to strip harvesting and the plug techniques of the past. Patients can keep the following tips in mind in order to reduce the discomfort that they feel as they recover.
Follow Your Pre-Operative Instructions to the Letter
Pre-operative instructions are in place to prepare your body for healing. Be sure to follow all instructions to the letter in order to reduce the severity of side effects that you feel following your hair restoration surgery.
Get Ample Rest Early On
Taking it easy and getting ample rest helps your body heal faster and more efficiently. While you will be able to return to most activities after the first day of recovery, get some sleep and rest up.
Take Your Medications as Directed
Patients will sometimes be prescribed pain relievers as well as sleeping aids as needed. Be sure to take these medications as directed in order to help ease the soreness you feel along the scalp. Antibiotics are rarely prescribed, though if you are asked to take them, be sure to do so in order to prevent infection.
Avoid Picking at the Scalp or Scratching
Itchiness and irritation are both common along the scalp, both in the donor area and the restored portions of your hairline. Avoid scratching and picking at your scalp. Do not remove any of the scabs that form and try to minimized unnecessary contact. The less disturbance to the scalp, the faster the healing period and the less serious the side effects.
Be Careful While Cleaning Your Scalp
You'll be given special instructions for cleaning and showering as you heal. Be sure to be gentle when cleaning your scalp, using the recommended shampoo. Keep your scalp away from the direct stream from your showerhead in the early stages of recovery.
Avoid Strenuous Physical Activities
By avoiding vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, and any other major physical exertions, you'll be able to rest easier and prevent any unintended stress or trauma to the scalp. Follow your hair restoration specialist's orders and avoid major physical activities as directed.
Abstain from Tobacco and Alcohol
Smoking, chewing tobacco, and alcoholic beverages can all impede your healing progress and make infections and other complications more likely. Be sure to avoid these substances until your surgeon advises you otherwise.
Attend Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled
A number of follow-up visits with your hair restoration surgeon will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and to address any concerns that you may have. Be sure to attend all of these follow-ups as scheduled to ensure the best possible healing and results.
Learn More About Hair Restoration Surgery
If you would like more information about follicular unit extraction (FUE) and your many options available to address hair loss and balding, be sure to contact our hair restoration surgery center today. The entire team at the Chicago Hair Institute looks forward to your visit and helping you look your very best in the process.
