Possible side effects of a hair transplant you should know about before booking one

Hair transplant surgeries have become trending in India as Bollywood actors and IT professionals are talking about them. The new techniques in this procedure have made it very easily accessible to all people suffering from hair loss. There are some side effects to this procedure as well, even though most of the side effects are usually temporary; if not treated properly, they can impact the overall result of the procedure.

Scalp irritation: People who get hair transplants often have irritation in their scalp, especially if it's too sensitive. Itchiness and redness can also be some of the side effects after a hair transplant. Some soothing lotions or medication can help in providing relief.

Swelling and Puffiness: This is one of the most common side effects of hair transplants, as during hair transplant treatment, saline fluid and local anesthesia are injected into the scalp, which can lead to puffiness. Swelling usually happens for a day or two when it is at its peak, and then it slowly subsides with proper medication.

Shock loss: After the hair transplant procedure, some people can have a certain amount of hair fall, whether it is new or the existing hair strands. However, it is usually normal to have this side effect, as hair roots do stay alive even after hair loss, because after some time, new hair strands grow out of the same hair roots in the scalp.

Infection: This can be one of the side effects of the procedure, especially if people do not take proper precautions and medication, which they need to follow after the treatment to get better and enhanced results. Infection can also happen if the professional doing this procedure is not properly trained or lacks the right technique to do this treatment.

Pain and Tightness: Many people suffer from slight pain or discomfort in their scalp, as it can feel tight or sore after the procedure. The tightness in the scalp usually goes away within weeks; however, doing gentle massages can help get quicker relief. If the pain increases, it is better to consult a doctor or a professional for getting the right treatment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I scratch my head 1 month after a hair transplant?
   Scratching can damage the transplanted hair grafts. This is why it is important to avoid scratching your head during the recovery period, even though it might be tempting. Wait at least a month before you can scratch your head.
2. Is a hair transplant 100% safe?
   No medical procedure is 100% risk-free, but hair transplants are generally very safe and highly successful when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon in a sterile clinic using modern techniques, with most risks being minor, temporary side effects like swelling, redness, or itching, and serious complications being rare.
3. What are the signs of a failed hair transplant?
   Signs of failure include poor hair growth, resulting in sparse or patchy areas, and an unnatural-looking hairline, which may appear too straight or asymmetrical. Excessive scarring, infections, and prolonged inflammation are other indicators of a failed transplant.