Proper preparation and aftercare are important parts of a safe treatment journey. This guide shares general information that patients commonly discuss during consultation and recovery planning. Always follow the personalised instructions provided by your surgeon — they take priority over general guidance.
Important: This page contains general educational guidance only. Always follow the specific pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon at consultation and discharge. Individual guidance takes priority.
Your surgeon will review your health history, current medications, and overall suitability before any procedure. Be honest about all medications, supplements, and health conditions.
Smoking significantly impairs wound healing, increases complication risk, and affects anaesthesia. Surgeons typically recommend stopping at least 4–6 weeks before surgery. Discuss the specific timeline with your surgeon.
Good nutrition supports healing. Avoid crash dieting before surgery. If you are taking iron supplements, vitamins, or herbal remedies, discuss these with your surgeon as some can affect bleeding.
Good hydration in the days before surgery supports anaesthesia and recovery. Follow your surgeon's specific fasting instructions, which typically begin the night before surgery.
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and many herbal supplements can increase bleeding risk. Your surgeon will provide a list of medications to avoid before surgery. Always confirm which medications are safe to continue.
Plan for someone to accompany you on the day of surgery and assist you at home during the initial recovery period. Recovery needs vary by procedure and individual.
Follow washing instructions exactly as provided — grafts are fragile in the first days
Sleep with head slightly elevated to reduce swelling
Avoid touching, rubbing, or scratching the transplanted area
Mild swelling around the forehead and eyes is normal and temporary
Continue gentle washing as instructed — scabs will naturally separate
Avoid direct water pressure on the transplanted area
Temporary shedding of transplanted hairs may begin — this is a normal part of the process
Avoid swimming pools, saunas, and direct sun exposure on the scalp
The scalp continues to heal internally — early growth may not yet be visible
Continue any prescribed topical treatments or supplements
Avoid harsh chemical treatments on the scalp
Follow-up appointments help monitor progress
New hair growth becomes progressively visible
Final density assessment is made at 12 months
Protect the scalp from excessive sun exposure
Maintain scalp health with recommended care routines
Wear the external splint continuously until your surgeon instructs removal — typically 7–10 days
Sleep on your back with head elevated for the first 2–3 weeks to minimise swelling
Avoid blowing your nose for at least 3 weeks following surgery
Protect the nose from any physical contact or pressure during healing
Avoid glasses resting on the nose bridge for at least 4–6 weeks — tape to the forehead if needed
Cold compress around (not on) the nose for the first 48 hours can help reduce swelling
Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 3–4 weeks
Swelling continues to reduce gradually over 12 months — final results are assessed at this point
Keep the head elevated, including during sleep, for the initial recovery period
Apply cold compresses gently around (not directly on) incision sites for the first 48 hours
Follow wound care and cleaning instructions provided at discharge
Avoid direct sun exposure on healing skin — SPF protection is essential once cleared
Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks
Return for follow-up appointments as scheduled — these are important for monitoring healing
Hair products, makeup, and heat styling should be avoided until the surgeon gives clearance
Wear compression garments as instructed — these support healing and reduce swelling
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity for the period recommended by your surgeon
Keep incision areas clean and dry according to your specific wound care instructions
Walking is encouraged from early in recovery to support circulation
Swelling is normal and may take several weeks to months to fully resolve
Maintain a stable body weight following body contouring procedures
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for proper assessment of healing
Allow sufficient recovery time in Peshawar before planning return travel. Long-haul flights too soon after surgery can increase complication risk. Travel clearance timing is discussed individually.
Follow-up appointments before departure are important for wound assessment, guidance, and ensuring safe travel readiness. Do not skip these appointments.
Save the clinic's WhatsApp number and ensure you have access to it while traveling home. Remote guidance during early recovery is available for international patients.
Smoking after surgery severely impairs healing, increases infection risk, and can compromise results. Most surgeons recommend continued abstinence for several weeks post-procedure.
Good hydration supports healing and reduces swelling. Avoid alcohol during the initial recovery period as it can increase swelling and interact with medications.
A balanced, nutritious diet supports tissue repair. Protein, vitamins C and E, and zinc all play a role in wound healing. Avoid restrictive dieting during recovery.
Fresh scars and healing skin are sensitive to UV exposure and can hyperpigment. Avoid direct sun on healing areas and use SPF when cleared by your surgeon.
Adequate rest in the initial recovery period is important. Pushing through fatigue or returning to full activity too quickly can slow healing and increase complications.
Follow-up appointments are not optional extras — they are an important part of your care. Concerns identified early can be addressed before they become problems.
While most recovery is uneventful, there are situations where you should contact the clinic or seek medical attention immediately rather than waiting.
Excessive pain not controlled by prescribed pain medication
Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from a wound site
High fever (above 38°C / 100.4°F)
Significant unexpected swelling or bruising beyond what was discussed
Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or other symptoms of serious concern
Anything that feels unusual, unexpected, or causes significant concern
Clinic Contact
WhatsApp / Call: +92 336 7070686
Contact our team through WhatsApp to discuss consultation, recovery guidance, international patient planning, and treatment options.
Aman Hospital, Dabgari Garden, Peshawar · Mon – Sat · 10AM – 7PM · +92 336 7070686