Hair transplant infection is a rare condition and usually occurs within 1 week following surgery. The reason is basically the microbes that enter the wounds formed by the planted follicles.
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body (specific area of the scalp: back or sides) to areas experiencing hair loss. While it is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical practice, there is a thread of complications.
GoodLook Clinic, which performs the best hair transplant surgery in Istanbul, meets all your needs before and after the operation. You can make a consultation with us to understand whether you are a good candidate for surgery and tell our specialists about your expectations.
Symptoms of a Hair Transplant Infection
If you have recently undergone a restoration procedure, it's important to be aware of the potential signs of contamination. While not all infected hair follicle cases present the same symptoms, some common indicators include:
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Persistent itching or irritation
- Pus or drainage
- Increased redness and swelling
- Fever or elevated body temperature
Causes for Hair Transplant Infection
Understanding the causes of infected hair transplant can help you take preventative measures and minimize the thread. During the surgery, small incisions are made in the scalp to transplant the grafts. These cuts create open wounds susceptible to infection if not properly cared for during the healing process.
People with a weakened immune system, either due to a pre-existing condition or certain medications, are at a higher risk of developing infections after a surgery. It is important to discuss any underlying health conditions with your surgeon before undergoing the practice.
Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial following the operation. Failure to keep the transplanted area clean and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon can rise the risk of hair follicle infection. Besides that, you should not touch the scalp unnecessarily, especially with unwashed hands. This habit can develop bacteria and increase the risk of this problem. Avoid contacting the transplanted area unless specifically instructed by your specialist.
If the surgical instruments or the environment where the hair transplant procedure takes place are not properly sterilized, it can introduce microbes and increases the risk of infection. Choosing a reputable clinic with stringent sterilization practices is a must.
Treatments for Hair Transplant Infection
First, if you suspect you have an infected hair transplant follicle, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. In most cases, antibiotics are prescribed to treat hair transplant infections. The specific type and duration of the antibiotic regimen will be determined by your doctor based on the infection's severity and other factors.
Topical antiseptics may be recommended to reduce the chance of further contamination and promote healing. These antiseptics are applied directly to the affected area as instructed by your doctor. Proper wound care is also crucial in the treatment of hair transplant infections. This may involve keeping the area clean, applying prescribed ointments or dressings, and avoiding activities that could disrupt the recovery process.
On the other hand, in severe cases where there is a collection of pus or fluid, drainage or surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the infected ingrown hair and fasten recovery. Your surgeon determines if this is required based on your specific situation.
Prevent Infection After Hair Transplantation
While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of follicle hair infection, there are steps you can take to minimize the likelihood of experiencing this discomfort:
1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions
Carefully follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This includes cleaning the transplanted area as instructed, applying any prescribed medications or ointments, and avoiding heavy activities that could compromise the healing process.
2. Maintain Proper Hygiene
Keep the transplanted area clean by following the hygiene practices recommended by your doctor. This includes gently washing the area with a mild cleanser and avoiding excessive touching or scratching.
3. Boost Your Immune System
Prioritize your overall health and immune system by following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting sufficient rest. Consult with your healthcare provider for any specific recommendations based on your medical history.
4. Regular Follow-Ups
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor the recovery and address any concerns promptly. Your specialist will be able to detect any signs of infected hair follicle and provide appropriate treatment if needed.
In conclusion, this problem, while relatively rare, can occur following the procedure. Recognizing the sign of infection, understanding the causes, and taking preventative measures are essential for minimizing the side effects. Hair transplant costs vary from case to case, depending on the preferred method and the number of grafts transplanted. GoodLook Clinic offers a comfortable and safe treatment process with its experienced surgeons and trained staff. Please contact us for detailed information.
