Patient guide
A practical guide, from preparation to recovery
The suggestions below are general. Instructions specific to you are given in writing, in your language, at your consultation; where they differ, your doctor’s instructions take precedence.
Pre-operative checklist
In the days before your procedure, go through the points below with your doctor.
- Let your coordinator know in writing about all the medication and supplements you take.
- Do not stop blood-thinning medication on your own; wait for your doctor’s advice.
- Avoiding alcohol in the days before the procedure is recommended.
- If you smoke, talk to your doctor about stopping or cutting down.
- Have a light breakfast on the morning of the procedure.
- Wear a comfortable top that buttons or zips at the front.
- Do not colour your hair or use styling products.
- Keep your passport, medication list and return flight details with you.
Sleeping position
In the first days, it is important that the recipient area does not rub against the pillow.
- For the first few nights, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised, using a neck pillow.
- Avoid sleeping on your front or side.
- Lay a clean towel or cover over your pillow.
Daily life
Most people can return to desk-based work within a few days; for heavy physical work, wait for your doctor’s advice.
- In the first days, avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects.
- You can wear a loose-fitting hat; wait before wearing tight ones.
- Do not scratch or pick at the scabs.
Post-Transplant Care
Washing instructions for the first 10 days
The first wash is done at the clinic. Over the following days, apply the steps below as shown to you.
Apply the lotion
Apply the lotion from your aftercare kit to the recipient area with your fingertips, without pressing, and leave it on for the recommended time.
Rinse with lukewarm water
Do not point the shower head directly at the recipient area; pour the water gently from a cup, held low.
Lather the shampoo
Work the shampoo into a lather in your palm; spread the foam over the recipient area with a light touch, without rubbing.
Rinse gently
Rinse off the foam with lukewarm water, again poured gently from a cup, held low.
Dry
Let the recipient area air-dry; pat the donor area dry with a paper towel. Do not use a hairdryer.
Patient guide
When can I…?
- Gentle walking
- From the first days
- Light exercise
- Generally after week 2, with the doctor’s approval
- Weights and strenuous exercise
- Generally after month 1
- Swimming pool and sea
- Generally after month 1
- Sauna, Turkish bath, sunbeds
- Generally after months 1–2
- Direct sun
- In the first months, protected by a hat
- Haircut (scissors)
- Generally after month 1
- Hair colouring
- With the doctor’s approval, generally after a few weeks