Complete preparation checklist for hair transplant surgery: what to stop, what to start, travel planning and how to set up your recovery environment.
Two weeks before surgery
Stop: Blood thinners — aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil (consult physician about timing for prescribed anticoagulants). Alcohol: stop 7 days before for optimal circulation. Minoxidil: stop 3 days before.
Start / Check: Vitamin D and iron/ferritin levels — deficiencies affect healing speed. If Finasteride is planned post-operatively, starting 2–4 weeks before is beneficial.
One week before surgery
Scalp preparation: Keep scalp clean and free of product buildup. No colouring or chemical processing in the 7 days before surgery. Avoid sunburn — inflamed skin reduces graft integration quality.
Travel preparation (Istanbul patients): Book return flight with departure 24–48h post-surgery minimum. Confirm hotel or package hotel booking. Note clinic emergency contact.
Practical preparation: Pack button-up shirts only — pullover garments risk graft dislodgement. Loose comfortable clothing. Headphones and entertainment for 7–9 hours of surgery. Phone charger.
Night before and morning of surgery
Night before: Wash hair thoroughly — last proper wash before surgery begins. Light meal only. No alcohol. Early bed — surgery requires calm, rested presentation.
Morning of surgery: Wash hair again with mild shampoo. Light breakfast — no fasting required (local anaesthesia, not general). Arrive on time — the hairline design session before surgery requires unhurried attention and patient approval.
