https://www.glamorousdubai.ae/en/hair-transplant/
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Embarking on the journey of a hair transplant, whether in the vibrant clinics of Dubai or the tranquil medical facilities of Abu Dhabi, signifies the start of an exciting process. The UAE offers top-tier expertise in techniques like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Direct Hair Implantation (DHI), where the success of your procedure greatly depends on thorough preparation. Understanding the pre-operative requirements, particularly those tailored to the specific technique chosen, is not just advisable but essential for ensuring optimal graft survival and a smooth recovery.
The technical steps leading up to your surgery are meticulously designed to minimize bleeding, prevent infection, and create an ideal environment for your newly transplanted follicles to flourish. Here is a comprehensive guide to preparing for your hair transplant in the UAE, with a focus on technique-specific considerations.
Initial Consultation and Technical Planning
The crucial first step involves a detailed consultation with your surgeon, where the technical plan is outlined.
Review of Medical History: It is vital to provide complete information about your health, including any existing conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, along with a comprehensive list of prescription medications and over-the-counter supplements.
Confirmation of Technique (FUE vs. DHI): Your surgeon will confirm the chosen technique (FUE or DHI) and explain the specific preparation required for it.
Donor Area Strategy: For FUE, a precise plan for harvesting from the donor area (typically the back and sides of the head) will be devised. The surgeon will determine the number of grafts needed and the extent of shaving required.
Note on Shaving: While FUE often necessitates shaving the donor area (and sometimes the recipient area for larger graft numbers), DHI may allow for an unshaven or partially shaved approach, reducing post-operative visibility—a key consideration for many patients in the UAE. It is important to clarify the required hair length in advance.
Hair Colouring: Some clinics in the UAE may recommend dyeing your hair black 1-2 days before the surgery if you have predominantly white or light-coloured hair. This enhances the visibility of fine, translucent hair follicles, making them easier for the extraction team to harvest accurately, thus improving the speed and precision of the extraction phase.
Essential Lifestyle and Medication Adjustments
A significant aspect of preparation involves modifying your lifestyle to minimize surgical complications, particularly excessive bleeding and poor graft health. These guidelines apply across all surgical techniques.
1. Cessation of Blood Thinners (Critical for all techniques)
The most crucial step is discontinuing any blood-thinning substances, as increased bleeding can complicate the procedure, hinder graft placement, and jeopardize graft survival.
Medication: Cease taking Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) at least 7 to 10 days before the procedure. For prescription blood thinners (like Warfarin or Plavix), it is essential to consult with the prescribing physician to establish a safe plan for temporary cessation or alternative medication.
Supplements: Stop all multi-vitamins, B and E vitamins, Fish Oil (Omega-3s), Ginseng, Garlic supplements, and Ginkgo Biloba for a minimum of 10 days before surgery, as these supplements also possess blood-thinning properties.
2. Abstinence from Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking/Nicotine: Refrain from smoking (cigarettes, shisha, midwakh, and vaping) at least 10 days before the procedure. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, significantly reducing blood flow and oxygen to the scalp, essential for healing and graft survival. Continuing to smoke poses a high risk to the success of the hair transplant.
Alcohol: Avoid all alcohol consumption for at least 3 to 7 days before the surgery. Alcohol acts as a blood thinner, increasing the risk of bleeding and potentially interfering with local anesthesia and post-operative medications.
3. Hair Products and Cleansing
Discontinue Minoxidil (Rogaine): Stop applying topical Minoxidil at least 3 days before the surgery, as it can increase scalp bleeding.
Chemical Treatments: Refrain from hair coloring, perming, or using harsh chemical treatments for at least a week before the procedure.
Scalp Hygiene: Wash your hair and scalp thoroughly with a mild, unscented shampoo the night before and the morning of the surgery. This reduces infection risk by ensuring a clean, product-free scalp. Avoid applying any products on the day of surgery.
The Day of Your Surgery
Your readiness on the day of the transplant ensures comfort during the lengthy procedure and safeguards the freshly transplanted grafts.
Diet and Caffeine: Have a light, non-greasy breakfast to maintain stable blood sugar and energy levels for the procedure, which can last 6 to 8 hours. Avoid coffee, tea, and caffeinated beverages on the morning of surgery, as caffeine can raise blood pressure and increase bleeding.
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