Pre Operation

Pre-Operation Hair Transplant Checklist | What to Do Before Surgery

Get ready for your hair transplant with Hairmedico's pre-operation checklist. Expert tips to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal results.
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For the safety of both you and our surgical team, you must undergo several mandatory blood tests prior to your operation. These help us ensure that there are no underlying infections or conditions that may interfere with healing or pose a risk during surgery.

The required tests are:

Anti HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody)

Anti HCV (Hepatitis C Antibody)

Anti HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

You should complete these tests in your home country and send us the results in advance. If that is not possible, we will perform them at our clinic in Istanbul before the procedure.

Important Notice:

If any test returns positive, your procedure may be canceled for safety reasons. In such cases, 30% of the total procedure cost will be charged to cover preparation expenses.

For more on how Hairmedico ensures hygiene and safety in every procedure, explore our dedicated page on Hair Transplant Safety Standards.

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Pre Operation

Pre-Operation Hair Transplant Checklist: What to Do Before Surgery

At Hairmedico, the success of your hair transplant doesn’t begin on the day of surgery—it starts well before, with careful preparation. Pre-operative planning is essential for ensuring your safety, comfort, and optimal graft results. In this comprehensive guide, we detail everything you need to know and do before your procedure to help you feel confident, relaxed, and ready for transformation.

Why Pre-Surgery Preparation Is Crucial

Preparing your body and mind before a hair transplant plays a vital role in minimizing complications and maximizing outcomes. From sharing your medical history to avoiding certain medications and lifestyle factors, these small but essential steps can have a major impact on how your body responds to surgery.

When you follow these guidelines carefully, you support:

Faster healing and recovery

Higher graft survival rates

Better aesthetic outcomes

Reduced risk of side effects or complications

We encourage all patients to begin their preparation early and communicate openly with their medical coordinator at Hairmedico.

Share Your Complete Medical History

Before your procedure, it is critical to inform our medical team of your full medical background. Please share the following details:

Any chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid conditions, or autoimmune diseases

A list of previous surgeries and relevant medical procedures

All current medications and supplements you are taking (including over-the-counter drugs)

This information allows our doctors to evaluate your case thoroughly and adapt the procedure to your individual needs. Our patient safety protocols rely on transparency and accurate reporting.

For more on how we tailor your hair transplant to your health needs, visit our article on Hair Transplant Consultation Process.

Medication Restrictions Before Hair Transplant

Certain medications can interfere with blood clotting or healing. That’s why we ask you to follow these clear guidelines on what to avoid in the days leading up to your procedure.

Aspirin and Blood Thinners

Do not take aspirin or aspirin-containing medications for at least 5 days before and after your surgery. Aspirin thins the blood and can increase the risk of bleeding during the hair transplant.

If you are taking aspirin for heart disease or another condition, please consult your cardiologist before stopping the medication.

Anti-Inflammatories & Supplements

Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen before surgery. Also, stop taking any vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo biloba, or garlic supplements, which can also increase bleeding risk.

If you are unsure whether a medication is safe, please contact your Hairmedico coordinator in advance.

Alcohol and Smoking Guidelines

Lifestyle choices like alcohol consumption and smoking can significantly affect how your body responds to surgery. These habits can reduce blood oxygen levels, increase bleeding, and delay wound healing.

Alcohol

Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 3 days before and after your procedure. Alcohol thins the blood and interferes with the body’s clotting ability, which increases the chance of complications during surgery.

Smoking

Do not smoke for at least 1 day before and after your surgery. If possible, reduce or quit smoking entirely in the weeks following your transplant.

Nicotine restricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen flow, which can limit nutrient delivery to your grafts and impair healing.

For tips on improving your recovery, read our full article on Hair Transplant Aftercare Tips.

Hair and Scalp Preparation

A clean and healthy scalp provides the best environment for graft insertion. Here's how to get your scalp ready:

Wash your hair thoroughly the night before the surgery using a gentle shampoo

Do not apply any styling products (gel, spray, mousse, wax) on the day of surgery

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and a button-up shirt to avoid disturbing grafts post-op

Avoid direct sun exposure on your scalp for several days before surgery, especially if you have light or sensitive skin.

Sleep and Rest Preparation

Get a full night’s sleep before the procedure. A well-rested body handles surgery and anesthesia better.

Also, try to manage stress levels. Feeling relaxed and mentally prepared improves your overall experience.

If you're traveling to Istanbul for your transplant, arrive at least one day in advance to rest and adjust.

Travel and Logistics

If you're coming from abroad, make sure to:

Arrange your flight and accommodations in coordination with your Hairmedico patient coordinator

Share your arrival time and flight number

Let us know if you have any special needs, allergies, or requests

Your all-inclusive hair transplant package at Hairmedico typically includes:

VIP airport transfers

4 or 5-star hotel accommodations

Personal interpreter services

Post-op follow-up appointments

For more details on what your experience includes, visit our page on Hair Transplant Packages in Turkey.

Final Checklist: What to Bring on Surgery Day

To ensure a smooth and stress-free surgery day, make sure you bring:

A copy of your blood test results (if done abroad)

Any relevant medical documents

Comfortable button-up or zip-up clothing

Your passport or ID

Prescription medications if needed

You do not need to shave your head before coming—our medical team will prepare the donor and recipient areas on-site.

 

Trust Hairmedico for Expert Pre-Op and Post-Op Care

By following these pre-surgery steps, you are giving yourself the best chance at a healthy recovery and successful transplant. At Hairmedico, we’re committed to guiding you through the entire process with transparency, care, and international medical standards.

To begin your journey, explore:

Our Hair Transplant Techniques: FUE, DHI, Sapphire FUE

Why Patients Around the World Choose Hairmedico

If you have any questions or would like to start planning your hair transplant, contact our team here.

Your hair transformation begins with smart preparation—and we’re with you every step of the way.

Meet the expert support team

Your consultant is ready to answer your hair transplant questions, and you can also get a personalized online hair analysis.

Free Hair Analysis