I recently had a hair transplant and had stitches removed from the back of my head 3 days ago. Is this normal? Any advice?

Question

The area is still extremely tender and I feel sharp, stabbing pains. Occasionally it will bleed (barely) at night. I've been taking motrin and Tylenol for pain and inflammation, and benadryl to help me sleep.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

If you have pain and tenderness and it is concerning you, it is best to see your doctor for a recheck.  It may be normal but it may also be not normal.  No way to tell without an examination.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Be sure to follow up closely with your surgeon. Without seeing your scalp and knowing all your details and number of grafts removed (which influences the size of the strip), it's not possible to give much of an opinion. In general however, there is some pain and tenderness on day 1 and 2 after the strip procedure. Rarely day 3. Thereafter the pain subsides in most individuals and the main sensation is tightness and annoyance from the stitches. Sharp stabbing pains is not common. Bleeding can happen on day 1 after the surgery, but is not common 3 days post stitch removal. It would be advisable for anyone with concerns to follow up closely with his or her surgeon.

Jeffrey Marvel, MD · Answer

That would be an entirely normal post-op course having your sutures removed three days ago.  As long as the incision does not open up everything is fine.  It is expected to see some minor bleeding at this point.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You should go back to your doctor and get examined if you are still bleeding and have pain. Ask why this is happening and what you can expect about the pain.

I recently had a hair transplant and had stitches removed from the back of my head 3 days ago. Is this normal? Any advice?

Answers (4)

Answer: Problems after stitches were removed

Answer: Problems after stitches were removed

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Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

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I recently had a hair transplant and had stitches removed from the back of my head 3 days ago. Is this normal? Any advice?

Answers (4)

Answer: Problems after stitches were removed

Answer: Problems after stitches were removed

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.