Hair Transplant Adelaide Clinic

Weeks Before Surgery

• Medication: Stop taking blood-thinning medications like aspirin and ibuprofen. Also, avoid certain vitamins and herbal supplements. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing any prescribed medication.
• Lifestyle: Stop smoking and consuming alcohol at least two weeks before your procedure. Both can impair healing and blood circulation.
• Hair: Follow your surgeon’s instructions on hair trimming and the use of specific shampoos.

The Day Before & Day of Surgery

• Sleep: Get a full night’s rest before the procedure.
• Eating & Drinking: Eat a light breakfast on the morning of your surgery. Avoid caffeine.
• Hair & Scalp: Wash your hair thoroughly on the morning of your procedure. Do not apply any styling products.
• Clothing: Wear a comfortable, loose-fitting button-down shirt or zip-up top to avoid disturbing the grafts after surgery.
• Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

• Congratulations on your FUE hair transplant at Advanced Cosmetic Medicine. The care you give your scalp over the next few weeks is vital for the long-term success of your procedure. Please follow these instructions carefully. Our team is here to support you at every stage of your recovery.

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  Days 1–10: Protect and Heal

  What You’ll Experience:

  • Mild swelling, redness, and discomfort.
  • Small scabs will form around each transplanted follicle.
  • The scalp may feel tight and sensitive.

  What to Do:

  • Attend your follow-up appointment at Advanced Cosmetic Medicine to have your bandages removed and your scalp washed.
  • Use the saline spray provided by the clinic every 30 minutes while you are awake for the first 3 days to keep the grafts moist.
  • Sleep with your head elevated for the first 5-7 nights to minimize swelling.
  • Take all prescribed medications as directed, including pain relievers and antibiotics.
  • Rest completely and avoid any strenuous activity or exercise.
  • Stay hydrated and focus on a healthy diet to support your body’s healing process.

  What to Avoid:

  • Do NOT touch, rub, or scratch your scalp.
  • No washing of your hair until instructed by our team.
  • Avoid swimming, alcohol, and smoking.
  • Do not wear hats, helmets, or anything that could put pressure on the grafts.
  • Stay out of direct sunlight and remain indoors or in the shade.

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  Day 10–3 Weeks: Washing and Recovery

  This period is crucial for gently removing the scabs and continuing the healing process.

  What to Expect:

  • The scabs will begin to lift and fall off.
  • It is normal for some transplanted hairs to fall out with the scabs.
  • Mild itching may occur as the scalp heals.

  How to Wash (Starting on Day 10):

  • Apply a gentle lotion or oil to your scalp to help soften the scabs. Let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Rinse your scalp gently with lukewarm water using a cup. Avoid using a high-pressure shower.
  • Lather the special shampoo in your hands and gently dab it onto your scalp. Do not rub.
  • Rinse again using a cup.
  • Pat your scalp dry with a soft, clean towel.
  • Repeat this washing process daily until all the scabs are gone, which usually takes about a week. You can resume light activity like walking, but avoid anything that causes you to sweat heavily.

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  3 Weeks–3 Months: Patience and Growth

  During this phase, it’s common for the visible hair to shed. This is a temporary part of the process, often called the “ugly duckling” phase, and it does not mean your transplant has failed.

  What You Might See:

  • The transplanted area may appear thinner or unchanged.
  • Small pimples or bumps may appear as new hairs begin to grow.

  What to Do:

  • Once the scabs are completely gone, you can return to using your normal shampoo.
  • You may resume using the shower for washing your hair.
  • You can get a haircut after one month. Be sure to inform your stylist about your transplant.
  • Gradually return to your normal exercise routine as advised by our team.
  • When outdoors, use a gentle scalp sunscreen (SPF 30+) to protect the new hair and skin.

  What to Avoid:

  • Do not scratch or squeeze any bumps.
  • Continue to avoid direct sun exposure without proper SPF protection.

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  What’s Next?

  Regular follow-up visits are an important part of your recovery. We will monitor your progress and may recommend additional treatments, such as PRP therapy, to help boost growth and healing.

  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

   

Determining if a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant is the right choice for you is a crucial step that should always be made in consultation with Dr Rahma Targett.

How to Know if FUE Hair Transplant is Right for You

A good candidate for an FUE hair transplant generally meets most of the following criteria:

• Sufficient Donor Hair: This is the most critical factor. You must have a healthy and dense supply of hair follicles in the donor area, which is usually the back and sides of your head. This area must be robust enough to provide the number of grafts needed to achieve your desired results without thinning out the donor site itself.
• Stable Hair Loss: The best candidates are those with a stable hair loss pattern. For male and female pattern baldness, this means that your hair loss has slowed down or stopped. A surgeon will often recommend waiting until you are in your late 20s or older to ensure the pattern is established.
• Realistic Expectations: An FUE hair transplant can significantly improve your appearance and restore a more natural hairline, but it is not a “cure” for hair loss. It won’t give you the same hair you had in your teens. A good candidate understands the limitations of the procedure and has realistic goals for the outcome.
• Good General Health: You should be in good overall health. Your body’s ability to heal and grow new hair is directly linked to your general well-being.
• Hair and Scalp Characteristics: Your hair type, texture, and color can influence the results. For example, individuals with wavy or curly hair often achieve a fuller look with fewer grafts due to the coverage their hair provides. A surgeon will also assess your scalp’s flexibility, as a more flexible scalp can make the extraction process easier.

Contraindications for FUE Hair Transplant

While FUE is a safe and effective procedure for many, there are certain conditions and factors that may make it unsuitable. These are called contraindications.

• Insufficient Donor Hair: If your donor area is too thin or sparse, there may not be enough healthy follicles to transplant to the recipient area.
• Active Scalp Conditions: You should not undergo a hair transplant if you have active infections, severe inflammation, or conditions like psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp. These issues must be treated and resolved before the procedure.
• Uncontrolled Chronic Illnesses: Certain uncontrolled health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune diseases (e.g., alopecia areata, lupus), can affect your body’s ability to heal and may compromise the success of the transplant.
• Blood Clotting Disorders: Conditions like hemophilia or a history of significant bleeding problems can make the surgery risky.
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Individuals who are overly preoccupied with a perceived flaw in their appearance may not be satisfied with the results of any cosmetic procedure. A surgeon may recommend psychological support before considering surgery.
• Certain Medications: You may be temporarily ineligible if you are taking blood thinners or other medications that interfere with the procedure or healing process.

Ultimately, the only way to know for sure if an FUE hair transplant is right for you is to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr Rahma Targett. She will examine your scalp, discuss your medical history, and help you develop a personalised plan.

Results from an FUE hair transplant are not immediate and require patience.

• 1-2 Weeks: The transplanted hair is in place, but your scalp will be red and scabbed. You will begin to see the transplanted hairs shed, which is a normal and expected part of the process.
• 1-3 Months: This is often called the “ugly duckling” phase. The transplanted hairs have shed, and there is little to no visible new growth. The follicles are dormant and resting.
• 3-6 Months: You will start to see new, fine hairs emerge. These will gradually thicken and become more noticeable over time.
• 6-12 Months: This is the period of significant growth. The new hair will become thicker and longer, and you will see a substantial improvement in density and coverage.
• 12-18 Months: The final results are achieved. Your transplanted hair is now fully mature and blends seamlessly with your existing hair.

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant is a safe and common procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it does carry some risks and potential side effects.  Being aware of these is an important part of making an informed decision.

Common and Temporary Side Effects

These are the most frequent and usually resolve on their own within a few weeks:

• Swelling and Redness: It’s very common to experience swelling in the forehead and around the eyes, along with redness in both the donor and recipient areas.  This typically subsides within the first week.
• Scabbing: Small scabs will form around each transplanted follicle. This is a normal part of the healing process and they will fall off naturally within 7-10 days. It’s crucial not to pick or scratch them.
• Itching and Discomfort: As the scalp heals, you may experience itching. It’s important to resist scratching to avoid damaging the grafts. Mild pain or discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain relievers.
• Numbness: Temporary numbness or a tingling sensation in the donor or recipient areas is common due to minor nerve disruption during the procedure. This usually resolves within a few weeks to months.
• “Shock Loss”: This is a temporary shedding of the transplanted hairs, which typically occurs within 2-4 weeks after the surgery. It’s a normal part of the process, and the hair will regrow as the follicles enter a new growth cycle.

Less Common but Potential Complications

These risks are rarer, especially when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon in a sterile environment:

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. This risk is minimized by following strict hygiene protocols during the procedure and by adhering to your post-operative care instructions.
• Folliculitis: This is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, which can appear as small, red, pimple-like bumps. Mild cases often resolve on their own, but more severe cases may require antibiotics.
• Scarring: While FUE is known for minimal scarring, tiny, dot-like scars will be left in the donor area where the follicles were extracted.  These are usually not noticeable, especially if you have some hair remaining in the donor area.
• Poor Graft Growth: In some cases, a small percentage of the transplanted grafts may not survive. This can be influenced by surgical technique, patient aftercare, and individual healing factors.
• Unnatural-Looking Results: An improperly designed hairline, incorrect angulation of the transplanted hair, or over-harvesting of the donor area can lead to an unnatural appearance.  This risk is greatly reduced by choosing a highly skilled and experienced surgeon.

Very Rare and Serious Risks

These complications are extremely rare but are important to be aware of:

• Allergic Reactions: While very uncommon, an allergic reaction to the local anesthetic or other medications used during the procedure is a possibility.
• Necrosis (Tissue Death): This is a very rare and serious complication that can occur due to inadequate blood supply to the scalp. It is usually a result of poor surgical technique or pre-existing medical conditions.
• Keloid Scarring: Individuals who are prone to keloid scars (thick, raised scars) may be at risk of developing them in the donor or recipient areas.

To significantly reduce the risks associated with FUE hair transplant, it is crucial to choose a reputable and accredited clinic. A thorough pre-operative consultation will help identify any personal health factors that could increase your risk of complications.

Other Hair Related Treatments Offered by ACM

1. Hair Thinning and Hair loss Treatment
2. Hair Line Lowering Treatment
3. Hair loss in Women
4. Beard Transplant

Technical Articles Related to Successful hair Transplant

1. How does Plasma-Lyte help to preserve hair follicles during a hair transplant?
2. Why the “KEEP” implantation method is key to your hair transplant success?
3. How the serrated punch improves FUE Hair Transplant results?
4. What is the best age for a hair transplant?
5. Crafting your perfect look – The art of hairline restoration in Adelaide
6. Meticulous hair transplant aftercare: The first 14 days
7. Washing your hair after a hair transplant
8. Hair transplant for women
9. Hair transplant shock loss explained
10. How long do hair transplants last?
11. Why an overseas hair transplant can be a bad investment?
12. Is a hair transplant permanent?
13. When can I wear a hat after hair transplant?
14. Why is saline spray used after a hair transplant?
15. How often do I need to apply salon spray after a hair transplant?
16. When do hair hair grafts become secure after a hair transplant?
17. What is FUE Hair Transplant?

At ACM, we believe in a doctor-led approach to hair transplant. Our small, boutique clinic is dedicated to the art and science of hair restoration, ensuring the highest standards of quality. Dr. Rahma Targett remains at the forefront of hair transplant technology by attending the annual ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery) conference, held in different locations worldwide.  Dr. Rahma Targett is personally involved in every stage of your procedure, from harvesting to implantation, to guarantee meticulous results.

Unlike larger chain clinics, we offer a personal service that is truly unmatched. Your journey with us doesn’t end when your hair transplant is complete; we are with you every step of the way. We provide continuous support throughout your recovery and are dedicated to helping you maintain a full head of hair for life.

For us, hair transplant is more than just a job; it’s a passion. We are dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible results.

• Specialist GP Status: Specialist General Practitioner (FRACGP), providing a broad medical foundation for comprehensive patient care.
• Specialist Diplomas: Holds a Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine (American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine) and a Diploma in Dermoscopy, which are vital for diagnosis and precision in hair and skin treatments.
• Dermatology Certification: Certified in Primary Care Dermatology and Dermoscopy through the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
• Pioneering FUE Experience: Performing FUE hair transplants since 2019, establishing long-term experience with the modern technique.
• Advanced Technology: Expertly uses state-of-the-art NeoGraft and WAW hair transplant systems, demonstrating commitment to advanced methodology.
• High Volume: Founder of Advanced Cosmetic Medicine in 2016, with the clinic having performed FUE for over six years, showcasing vast procedural experience across cosmetic medicine.
• Medical Background: Over 20 years of experience as a medical practitioner, including significant international work as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the United Nations.
• Global Membership: Associate Member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), the global non-profit authority on hair loss treatment. This membership is a powerful signal of authority and commitment to best practices.
• Industry Leadership: Actively attends international conferences and the World Congress of Hair Restoration Surgery annually to remain at the forefront of the field.
• Local Trust: Founder of the respected Advanced Cosmetic Medicine (ACM) and StranDr clinics in Adelaide, building a strong local reputation known for professionalism and integrity.
• Patient Philosophy: Known for her commitment to providing natural, personalised results and a compassionate, professional approach, which fosters patient trust.
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No, we cannot guarantee a “flawless” or “perfect” result, nor can we guarantee the density of a non-receding scalp. Ahpra guidelines prohibit us from creating unreasonable expectations regarding outcomes. The Hair Transplant aims for a significant, objective improvement in coverage and hairline definition, limited by your individual donor supply. Your clinical results depend on surgical technique and the viability of the transplanted grafts. The final, realistic outcome will be discussed thoroughly during your mandatory consultation.

We prioritize your post-operative safety. If you experience unexpected side effects or complications (such as signs of infection, abnormal swelling, or persistent severe pain), you will be provided with a direct, accessible contact numberfor your treating practitioner or the clinic. Immediate follow-up and management of complications are part of our commitment to your clinical care and professional surgical duty of care.