See here for different parts of your journey, like first discovery, diet and medicine, and finding a doctor. If you find yourself here at this step during your journey, then you’re researching what you can do to prepare for the procedure between the time it’s booked and the day it arrives. There is a lot that can be done to help deliver a great outcome.
So what are some expectations for the run-up to the day of the procedure? See below for a general timeline, keeping in mind that Dr. Williams will delve into more detail during the consultation. There are no questions that you should shy away from asking because the more you know, the more you can contribute to the preparation.
- A Month Prior
Upon arrival at Advanced Medical Hair Institute for your initial consultation, Dr. Williams will ask questions about your general medical history and examine your scalp to identify the extent of hair loss. He’ll also scan and take photos of the affected area and study them before discussing the best treatment plan.
If you qualify as a good fit for a procedure, he’ll explain what you should expect moving forward while answering any and all questions pertaining to the remaining timeline. Points of interest include the type of procedure, its cost, anesthetics to be used, and potential risks. Your surgery time is usually scheduled within the month, which gives you plenty of time to make preparations for your personal and work schedules.
- Two Weeks Out
At this point, it’s advisable to stop engaging in certain lifestyle habits such as smoking nicotine and drinking alcohol. Dr. Williams will advise which of your current medications can be put on hold, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, herbal supplements, beta-blockers, and vitamins. You may have to take a blood or ECG test as an additional measure.
These precautions ensure your scalp and body are in the best health before the upcoming surgery. The expectations might vary depending on whether you’ll undergo an FUT or an FUE procedure.
- One Week to Go
Though it may sound like a good idea, hold off on cutting your hair during this time. A sizable length of natural hair acts as an ideal donor site, as well as covering any possible scars. In some cases, the doctor will need to shave down the area to better access the follicles, so give him all the hair to work with that you can.
Also, dedicate at least 20 minutes daily to a scalp massage. This essential step helps improve the blood flow while making your scalp flexible. Remember that the doctor’s advice is given to help obtain the best possible results, so please heed his words.
- A Few Hours Before Surgery
On the eve of your procedure, you’ll need to take certain safety precautions. If you wash your hair, avoid products with irritating or harmful chemicals. You can use regular shampoo for a soothing and cleansing sensation. Dr. Williams will give you a detailed diet plan to follow on the day before surgery. Remember to avoid caffeine at all costs.
It’s also advisable to wear a button-down shirt or something you can take off easily should you feel warm. It would not be possible to pull a shirt over your head because the scalp is the designated work area. If you have a trusted friend or family member with some time to spare, arrange to have them accompany you to our practice and take you home after the procedure.
It’s natural to feel nervous before the surgery. With over a decade of experience in this field, Dr. Williams knows just what to do to keep you at ease. He has a reputation for performing minimally invasive and painless procedures that result in the most natural results.
Once done, you’ll receive a container with all the necessary medication you’ll need to prevent pain, swelling, and other discomforts. You’ll also receive detailed guidelines on how to take care of the transplant area, as well as a schedule of follow-up visits.
Next time, we will cover what to expect during the procedure and will have sample questions that we hear often from our patients. You can find plenty of information in our blogs here on the site until we speak again. Here are some topics for future discussion:
- Transplant Procedure Day…
- After-Procedure Care and Timeline…
- Your New Look; Your Next Chapter…
- What Others Are Saying
