Swelling of face after hair transplant?

Question

I had hair transplant surgery on 18th & 19th Feb. As I had grade 7 baldness, doctor decided to get hairs from my beard. I had about 6000 grafts transplanted and almost 4000 grafts were taken from beard. Now my face is swollen. There is no swelling on forehead or on eyelids. But cheeks are swollen badly with red dots. Any recommendation to reduce swelling ? When Can I start shaving ?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Swelling is a risk and it does occur in some individuals after surgery.  There isn't much you can do after you get the swelling other than wait for it to subside.  If you are concerned it is best to contact your doctor.

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

What you describe sounds related to the very large number of grafts harvested from the beard area.Typically swelling peaks around the 3rd day after a procedure,so hopefully it is starting to resolve.Unfortunately there is nothing you can do at this point but to give it time.I recommend following up with your surgeon regarding further care and shaving instructions.

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Swelling is an expected situation after hair transplantation and as the graft numer rises swelling is much more. There severel treatments for this. Your doctor can inform you about them.You should wait 2-3 weeks for shaving.

Kapil Dua, MBBS, MS · Answer

It is normal to have swelling in the face after excision of hair. The swelling will subside in a weeks time. And you can start off with the shaving after that. In case, it does not get alright, you should visit the doctor who operated upon you.

Parsa Mohebi, MD, FISHRS · Answer

It is to be expected that patients will have swelling especially if you
have 6000 grafts removed at one sitting. 
We anticipate this and ask patients to take precautions such as having the
head of bed between 30 to 45 degrees while sleeping, avoid bending over and take
prednisone for the first four days post procedure.  You should see your hair restoration surgeon
for their specific post op instructions.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Swelling around the eyes and forehead after transplant surgery is not uncommon but this sounds different and is likely related to the FUE harvest.  Although it may be temporary and benign, it's hard to say without an evaluation.  I suggest you call your surgeon.

Baubac Hayatdavoudi, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to experience facial swelling after a Strip procedure. Your doctor and hair restoration clinic should have prepared you for this to potentially happen. You should contact them for a follow up appointment to see what they advise.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Swelling from a beard transplant will eventually go away in a week or so. Don't worry, but if you are concerned go back and speak with your doctor and ask your doctor about shaving

Swelling of face after hair transplant?

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