Hair transplantation has become a popular solution for those struggling with thinning hair. However, some patients report outcomes such as “my hair didn’t grow as much as expected” or “redness and itching lasted longer than I thought.” In many of these cases, the cause lies not only in surgical techniques but also in preoperative preparation and postoperative care.

Hair transplantation is a highly advanced medical procedure in which delicate follicular units are moved from one area to another and re-established. Because of this, factors such as blood flow, oxygen supply, immune response, and UV exposure all influence graft survival.

This article provides a detailed explanation—from essential preparations before surgery to immediate and long-term postoperative care—based on the latest medical knowledge and clinical experience. Rather than merely listing precautions, it explains why each measure is necessary and what could happen if neglected. By reading this, you will gain practical knowledge to maximize the success rate of hair transplantation and maintain natural-looking hair over the long term.

Chapter 1: Preoperative Health Check and Lifestyle Improvements

Since hair transplantation is performed under local anesthesia, it involves fewer systemic risks compared to general anesthesia. However, if the body is not in optimal condition, complications and delayed recovery may occur. Preoperative health checks are not just formalities—they are essential steps to create an environment where transplanted follicles can survive.

1-1. Management of Chronic Conditions and Key Indicators

Diabetes: Poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7.0%) increases risks of delayed wound healing and infection. Glycated blood reduces capillary flexibility, impeding oxygen supply to transplanted areas.
Hypertension: Ideally <140/90 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure increases bleeding during surgery and worsens postoperative swelling and bruising.
Heart Disease: Patients with prior myocardial infarction or angina must obtain clearance from a cardiologist, as epinephrine in local anesthetics can affect heart rate and blood pressure.

1-2. Effects of Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to hair matrix cells. Clinical data show smokers have about 20% lower graft survival rates. Quitting at least one month before surgery is ideal.
Alcohol: Alcohol dilates blood vessels, increasing intraoperative bleeding, while also impairing liver detoxification and delaying recovery. Complete abstinence for at least one week before surgery is recommended.

1-3. Weight Management and Nutrition

Obesity (BMI ≥ 25): Increases surgical risk, complicates positioning, and raises infection risk.
Underweight: Protein deficiency reduces follicle regeneration.
Goal: Maintain a healthy BMI (18.5–24.9) prior to surgery.

1-4. Why Health Status Directly Affects Graft Survival

Transplanted follicles do not instantly form their own blood supply. Over several days to weeks, new capillaries grow from surrounding scalp tissue to nourish follicles. Smooth angiogenesis depends on proper blood flow, oxygenation, and immune balance. Poor health disrupts this process, raising the risk of graft loss.

Chapter 2: Nutrition and Dietary Improvement Before Transplantation

One of the biggest determinants of transplantation success is nutritional status. Hair growth relies heavily on nutrient balance, especially during follicle engraftment when matrix cells are rapidly dividing.

2-1. Essential Nutrients and Recommended Intake

Protein: Hair’s main component, keratin, is protein. Recommended: 1.0–1.2g per kg body weight (e.g., 60–72g/day for 60kg). Sources: chicken breast, fish, eggs, soy products.
Zinc: Essential for cell division and keratin synthesis. Recommended: 15mg/day. Sources: oysters, beef, egg yolk. Deficiency is linked to hair loss.
Iron: Supports hemoglobin and oxygen delivery. Men: 8mg/day, Women: 10.5mg/day. Sources: liver, lean red meat, spinach.
Vitamins C & E: Antioxidants that protect follicle cells from UV and oxidative stress. Sources: citrus, almonds, avocados.

2-2. Risks of Nutrient Deficiency

Protein deficiency slows collagen synthesis, delaying wound closure.
Zinc deficiency weakens immunity, raising infection risk.
Iron deficiency causes follicle hypoxia, lowering graft survival.

2-3. Practical Dietary Example

Start dietary adjustments 2–3 months pre-surgery:

Breakfast: Omelet, natto, miso soup, rice, orange.
Lunch: Grilled fish, salad, boiled spinach.
Dinner: Grilled chicken breast, broccoli, brown rice.

For frequent dining out: choose high-protein, low-fat meals. Use convenience store options like boiled eggs, salad chicken, and tofu.

2-4. Use of Supplements

Supplements may help when diet alone is insufficient, but overuse can cause side effects. Zinc and iron, in particular, can cause gastrointestinal issues if overdosed. Always consult a physician.

Chapter 3: Stress Management and Hormonal Balance Before Surgery

Psychological stress directly affects the hair growth environment. Stress triggers cortisol secretion from the adrenal cortex, which suppresses follicle cell division. It also causes vasoconstriction and sleep disorders, impairing blood flow and accelerating hair loss.

3-1. Cortisol and Follicle Cells

Cortisol shortens the hair growth cycle when elevated chronically, leading to premature hair shedding and thinning.

3-2. Stress Reduction Practices

Sleep: At least 7 hours daily. Deep sleep boosts growth hormone secretion and follicle repair.
Light exercise: Walking or yoga 3–4 times a week. Improves circulation and stabilizes the autonomic nervous system.
Breathing & Meditation: 5 minutes of deep breathing or mindfulness meditation enhances parasympathetic activity.

3-3. Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Ensure a dark, quiet bedroom. Avoid screen use before bedtime. Adjust pillow height and mattress firmness to your comfort.

3-4. Importance of Stress Care

Pre-surgery mental stability reduces inflammatory responses post-surgery. Patients with higher stress often experience prolonged redness and swelling.

Chapter 4: Precautions on the Day of Surgery

The surgery day is when preparation pays off. Each action directly impacts comfort and graft survival.

Breakfast: Eat a balanced meal (rice, miso soup, grilled fish, egg). Avoid greasy or sugary foods. Limit caffeine.
Scalp Cleanliness: Shampoo in the morning, thoroughly rinse out styling products or oils, and dry hair completely.
Clothing: Wear front-opening shirts or zip-up hoodies to avoid rubbing grafted areas. Light colors make it easier to monitor stains.
Transportation: Wear hats or protective caps post-surgery. Avoid crowded transport. Use car shades or UV films if driving.

Chapter 5: Post-Surgery UV Protection

Fresh grafts are extremely vulnerable to UV radiation, which damages follicle DNA and delays wound healing.

Effects: UVB damages DNA; UVA penetrates deep layers, degrading collagen and elastin. Both prolong redness and pigmentation.
Timeline:
- Within 1 month: Avoid direct sun. Use UV-protection hats and umbrellas.
- 1–3 months: Hats + scalp sunscreen spray (low-alcohol). Wash off thoroughly after returning home.
- After 3 months: Continue UV protection long term, as damage is cumulative.
Daily Tips:
- Use wide-brimmed UV-cut hats.
- Schedule outdoor activity during low-UV hours (morning/evening).
- Indoors, block window UV with curtains or UV films.

Conclusion

The success of hair transplantation depends not only on surgical techniques but also on preoperative preparation and postoperative care. Health management, nutritional balance, stress reduction, day-of-surgery precautions, and UV protection all contribute to higher graft survival and long-lasting natural hair.

Follicle cells are highly vulnerable in the early post-transplant phase. Minimizing risks from UV, poor blood flow, or infection is key to achieving optimal density and quality. Neglecting these measures risks undermining the entire procedure.

Hair transplantation is not the “end point” but the “starting point” of growing new hair. By applying the practices outlined here and following medical advice diligently, you can ensure satisfying results that last for years.

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