Proper aftercare protects your investment and maximizes graft survival. The critical period is the first 14 days when grafts are securing themselves in the recipient channels. Key rules: sleep elevated, wash gently starting day 3–5, avoid sun/sweat/swimming, no hats pressing on grafts for 2 weeks, and resume exercise gradually at week 4.
Days 1–3: Maximum Caution
The first three days are when your grafts are most vulnerable. They're sitting in tiny channels that haven't yet developed blood supply — any physical disruption can dislodge them permanently.
- Sleep elevated at 45 degrees on your back. Use a travel pillow or stack regular pillows. Do not roll onto the transplanted area.
- Do not touch the grafts. No scratching, rubbing, or picking at scabs — even if they itch (and they will).
- Take all medications as prescribed: antibiotics (to prevent infection), anti-inflammatory (to reduce swelling), and pain relief as needed.
- Spray saline solution on the grafts every 30–60 minutes to keep them moist (your clinic will provide the spray bottle and protocol).
- Avoid bending forward. Increased blood pressure to the head can cause swelling and potentially displace grafts.
- No alcohol or smoking. Both impair healing and blood flow to the scalp.
Days 3–5: First Wash
Your clinic will give you specific washing instructions — follow theirs, as protocols vary slightly between surgeons. The general approach:
- Apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion (such as baby lotion or the clinic-provided product) to the transplanted area. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to soften scabs.
- Using a cup or gentle shower stream (not direct showerhead pressure), rinse the area with lukewarm water.
- Apply a small amount of baby shampoo with a patting motion — never rubbing, scrubbing, or circular motions.
- Rinse gently and pat dry with a soft, clean towel.
- Repeat daily until all scabs are gone (typically by day 10–14).
As scabs form and loosen, the urge to pick at them is strong. Resist it. Picking at scabs can pull out grafts that haven't yet anchored. Let the washing process handle scab removal naturally — they will all come off on their own by day 14.
Days 7–14: Scab Resolution
By the end of the first week, most scabs are softening and beginning to fall off during washing. The recipient area transitions from pink and crusty to a smoother, slightly reddish appearance. The donor area should feel significantly better — any tightness or tenderness has largely resolved.
You can begin wearing a loose hat (not a tight cap or beanie) around day 7–10 if needed for sun protection, as long as it doesn't press on the grafts. Choose something that sits loosely on top of the head rather than gripping it.
Weeks 2–4: Gradual Return to Normal
| Activity | When to Resume |
|---|---|
| Desk work / remote work | Day 3–5 |
| Light walking | Day 3–5 |
| Driving | Day 3–5 |
| In-office work | Day 7–10 |
| Light gym (no cardio or weights) | Week 2–3 |
| Full gym / running / sports | Week 4+ |
| Swimming (pool or ocean) | Week 4–6 |
| Direct sun exposure | Week 4+ (with SPF protection) |
| Hair coloring or chemical treatments | Week 6–8 |
| Normal hair styling | Month 3+ |
Medication Protocol Post-Transplant
- Antibiotics: Typically 5–7 day course starting the day of surgery
- Anti-inflammatory: Usually 3–5 days (reduces swelling)
- Finasteride: Resume (or start) 2–4 weeks post-op as directed by your surgeon
- Minoxidil: Resume 2–4 weeks post-op, once all scabs have fully resolved
- Biotin supplement: Many surgeons recommend 5,000–10,000 mcg daily to support hair growth
Months 2–18: What to Expect
After the initial 30-day aftercare period, the grafts are fully secure and the focus shifts to patience. Shock loss (transplanted hairs falling out) is normal during weeks 2–8. The dormancy period (months 2–3) shows no visible change. New growth begins around months 3–4, with meaningful density by months 6–9 and final results at 12–18 months.
Continue your medication protocol, protect the scalp from excessive sun, eat a balanced diet rich in protein and iron, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking — all of which support optimal hair growth.
Have Questions About Your Recovery?
Our team and partner surgeons are available to answer aftercare questions before, during, and after your procedure in Colombia.
Reach Out Anytime