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Preparing for a Hair Transplant: A Checklist for the Final 2 Weeks
Which medicines to stop, when to quit smoking and alcohol, and what to do on the morning of surgery: a complete preparation checklist for hair transplants.
Contents
A hair transplant is a planned surgical procedure, and small preparations make the day more comfortable and recovery smoother. Here is a practical checklist for the final two weeks.
These tips are general; your doctor's instructions always come first. Never stop any medicine without asking.
| Two weeks before | Advice |
|---|---|
| Health information | Tell the doctor about chronic conditions, medicines, allergies and past surgery |
| Blood thinners | The doctor decides whether to stop aspirin, some painkillers or anticoagulants |
| Supplements | Fish oil, ginkgo, garlic pills and vitamin E may be stopped on advice |
| Smoking | Stopping at least 1–2 weeks before helps circulation and healing |
| Hair dye and chemicals | Avoid treatments on the scalp |
| Tests | Do any blood tests requested |
One week before
Pause alcohol (it can increase bleeding and swelling), avoid sunburn on the scalp, keep exercising but plan a break afterwards, and arrange work and social plans for the first days.
2–3 days before
- Cut down caffeine.
- Prepare button-up or zip-up clothes.
- Get a neck pillow for sleeping.
- Confirm accommodation and transport, especially if travelling.
The night before
Sleep well; wash your hair with your usual shampoo without gels, sprays or creams; eat a light dinner unless told otherwise.
| Morning of surgery | Why |
|---|---|
| A light, filling breakfast | Energy and stable blood pressure |
| Comfortable clothes | All-day comfort |
| Leave jewellery and valuables | Safety |
| Bring your medicine list | For the doctor |
| Charger and headphones | To pass the time |
Skipping breakfast can cause dizziness and weakness during a long procedure.
Mental preparation
Understanding the stages and recovery timeline reduces anxiety; knowing that shock loss is normal and results take months sets realistic expectations; ask every question at consultation.
Travelling from other cities
For clients coming to Istanbul from Yalova, Bursa, Kocaeli or Gebze: plan the next-day check-up and first wash together with surgery, avoid driving for the first days and bring a companion, and use a neck pillow on the way home.
At our Istanbul clinic we give personalised written preparation instructions and plan medicines with medical assessment, and guide clients from other cities and abroad with travel and accommodation.
