Hair grafting surgery, commonly known as a hair transplant, is a powerful solution for those experiencing hair loss or thinning. While the surgery itself can provide significant results, proper recovery and post-operative care are essential for optimal outcomes. One of the most effective post-surgery treatments is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, which can boost healing, strengthen hair follicles, and enhance the overall results of the transplant.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about recovering from hair grafting surgery and how PRP therapy fits into the process.
Why is PRP Therapy Beneficial After a Hair Transplant?
PRP therapy involves extracting a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it into the scalp. These platelets are rich in growth factors that can speed up tissue repair, stimulate hair follicles, and promote new hair growth. Here’s why PRP is especially beneficial after a hair transplant:
- Accelerates Healing: PRP promotes faster healing of the scalp, reducing redness, swelling, and inflammation.
- Enhances Hair Growth: The growth factors in PRP stimulate hair follicles, encouraging stronger and thicker hair growth in the transplanted area.
- Reduces Shock Loss: Shock loss, where hair temporarily falls out after surgery, is a common post-transplant occurrence. PRP helps minimize this effect and supports quicker regrowth.
Is It Good to Do PRP After a Hair Transplant?
Yes, PRP therapy is highly recommended after a hair transplant. It provides essential support to newly transplanted hair follicles, helps anchor them more securely, and reduces the time it takes to see noticeable growth. Many doctors, including Dr. Janice Brown, often recommend starting PRP treatments after month post-surgery to achieve the best possible results.
How Many PRP Sessions Are Needed After a Hair Transplant?
The number of PRP sessions needed can vary depending on the individual’s hair loss pattern and recovery progress. Generally, a typical PRP treatment plan after a hair transplant includes:
- Initial Phase: 3 sessions spaced 3-6 weeks apart, starting within the first month after the hair transplant.
- Maintenance Phase: Follow-up treatments every 6 months to maintain the results and further stimulate hair growth.
Are 3 PRP Sessions Enough?
Three PRP sessions are often sufficient to see noticeable improvements in hair growth and scalp healing. This initial phase helps rejuvenate the transplanted follicles and stimulate surrounding hair growth. However, individual results may vary, and some patients may benefit from additional maintenance sessions to sustain and enhance their results.
Is PRP or Polynucleotides Better After a Hair Transplant?
While all three treatments can be beneficial after a hair transplant, each has its unique advantages:
- PRP Therapy: Uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergies or reactions. It stimulates natural hair growth and accelerates healing.
- Polynucleotides: These are DNA-based molecules that promote cell regeneration and healing. They can help repair damaged tissues, but they may not directly stimulate hair growth as effectively as PRP.
In most cases, PRP is considered the gold standard for post-hair transplant recovery due to its ability to enhance hair growth and healing simultaneously.
How Often is PRP Needed Following a Hair Transplant?
After the initial 3-session treatment, PRP maintenance treatments are typically recommended every 3-6 months. This schedule helps maintain the improvements in hair thickness and scalp health. The exact frequency can be adjusted based on individual progress and hair growth patterns.
What Are the Benefits of PRP Hair Transplant?
PRP therapy offers numerous benefits, making it a valuable part of post-hair transplant care:
- Natural and Safe: Since PRP is derived from your own blood, there is a minimal risk of adverse reactions.
- Non-Invasive: PRP is a non-surgical treatment that can complement hair transplant results without downtime.
- Improves Hair Quality: Helps enhance the density, texture, and strength of both transplanted and native hair.
- Minimizes Shock Loss: Reduces the risk of hair shedding after surgery and supports quicker recovery.
How Much Does PRP Cost in the UK?
The cost of PRP therapy in the UK can vary depending on the clinic, the number of sessions, and the specific needs of the patient. It must be noted the quality of the PRP and clinician experience can vary. Dr Janice has been treating hair loss with PRP since 2019, a PRP treatment for hair restoration costs £300.
Additional Tips for Recovering from a Hair Transplant
To ensure the best outcomes, follow these additional recovery tips:
- Avoid Touching or Scratching the Scalp: This can disturb the grafts and increase the risk of infection.
- Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Helps reduce swelling during the initial days after surgery.
- Limit Physical Activity: Refrain from intense exercise for at least 2 weeks to prevent excessive sweating and stress on the scalp.
- Follow a Gentle Hair Washing Routine: Your surgeon will guide you on when and how to start washing your hair post-surgery.
- Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Wear a hat or stay in the shade to protect your scalp from UV rays during the healing process.
Conclusion
Recovering from hair grafting surgery involves more than just the surgery itself; it requires a comprehensive approach that includes PRP therapy to maximise the results. PRP accelerates healing, stimulates new hair growth, and enhances the overall outcome of the transplant. By incorporating PRP into your post-surgical care, you can achieve stronger, healthier, and more natural-looking hair.
If you’re considering a hair transplant or want to learn more about how PRP can help you recover, book a consultation with Dr. Janice Brown Aesthetics & Skin. We’re here to guide you on your journey to renewed confidence and hair vitality.
