Can you take Ibuprofen within the first 48 hours after a hair transplant?

Question

I've bad a hair transplant 6 days ago. In the following 48 hours from the procedure I was not feeling very good so I had some 600mg Ibuprofen. Then, I read it is not recommended to take Ibuprofen within the 3 days following the procedure (because of the blood thinning). Is it better to avoid this analgesic just because it may increase the bleeding (which I didn't have any problem with) or is there a risk that it can damage some follicles due to the alterations in the blood flow? Thank you.

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

If you have severe pain after the operation you can use Ibuprofen. If the pain is on your donor area then aloe vera can be a good alternative.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is best to contact your doctor about post operative care and instructions since each doctor has a different regimen.

Greg Williams, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

You should always ask your hair transplant surgeon when you can restart non-essential medication after a hair transplant as opinions will vary. In my practice, I am happy for patients to take ibuprofen from the day after surgery. I prefer them not to use it for 24 hours prior to surgery.

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve are all in the same class called NSAIDs. They are blood thinners. In my practice, NSAIDs are not recommended after hair transplant for at least one week because bleeding underneath the follicle could expel the follicle. That being said, follow the advice of the person who performed your hair transplant. Best of luck from Manhattan.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

I routinely give my patients ibuprofen to take starting the afternoon of surgery.  It can predispose you to bleeding but this has not been an issue when taken right after a hair transplant.  Of course, you should always check with your surgeon for his/her personal opinion as there may be issues unique to your case.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

The drug Ibuprofen can be used after a hair transplant without worry. Many people use it for headaches or some pain control and it works well

Can you take Ibuprofen within the first 48 hours after a hair transplant?

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