Surgery of any kind presents some kind of inherent risk. A part of you is going to be cut and exposed to the world, if only for a short amount of time. Combine that with anesthesia and the fact that human error does exist, there is always a chance that an accident or complication may occur. Hair transplant surgery is no exception. Even though the procedure is one of the safest cosmetic surgeries around, there are still some things you need to know before giving it a try.
Infection Is Always a Possibility
Having a wound of any kind is like a magnet for germs and bacteria. Before band-aids were invented, the infection and mortality rate among people with open wounds were much higher. Without a sterile way to keep an open cut covered, it became a breeding ground for infection.
Modern medicine has come a long way, but even so, the risk of infection can still occur, especially after surgery. Germs can enter the body while still undergoing the procedure or even afterward. The most likely complication after hair transplant surgery will be an infection. Luckily, antibiotics can be prescribed immediately following surgery to help boost the white blood cells and defend against infection.
Cysts May Develop
Cysts are tiny bubbles that contain pus, and may appear in the areas where the follicles were implanted. They are typically temporary and very small, almost pimple-like. These develop much like cysts over ingrown hairs do at times in other parts of your body. The cysts should go away on their own after a few weeks; however, if they do not, consult your hair transplant surgeon for help.
Pain and Bleeding at the Donor Scalp
If you undergo Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), the doctor removed a strip of scalp somewhere from the back of your head. Depending on the viability of follicles, the piece may have been large or small. It is important that you follow the doctor’s instructions when it comes to the continued care of this area of your head. Since the scalp was removed, an open wound was left. If you develop severe pain, dizziness, or vomiting along with a fever, go to the emergency room immediately. It might be a severe reaction or infection.
A hair transplant may be relatively safe, but still needs to be taken seriously. Pay attention to the possible side effects and complications posed by your doctor before proceeding with the surgery. If you want to hear if this could be a good treatment for you, contact a hair transplant doctor, like a hair transplant doctor in NYC, for a consultation today.
Thank you to the office of Dr. Robin Unger for their insight into some of the risks or complications of hair transplant surgery.