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Pete Scott, MD Written by Matilda H. Updated on 14 Jan 2024
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How to sleep after a hair transplant?

Medically reviewed by

Pete Scott, MD

This text was written according to the highest scientific standards and reviewed by medical experts. Find out more about our quality assurance.

Written by Matilda H. Updated on 14 Jan 2024
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Hair transplants are minimally invasive so returning to your daily routine a few days after the procedure should not be a problem. But how do you sleep comfortably right after a hair transplant? Learn all you need to know about the do’s and don’ts of sleeping after a hair transplant to protect your hair grafts and get a comfortable night’s rest.

How should I sleep after a hair transplant?

Here is a breakdown of the correct precautions to take while sleeping after a hair transplant: 

  • Day 0 to 10 – For the first 10 days after your transplant you should sleep on your back and at an inclined surface such as a recliner, with extra pillows or a neck pillow to elevate the head. Avoid movement during the night that may dislodge the grafts. Additionally, for the initial five nights, wear a headband or bandages around the forehead to prevent drainage of fluid that causes swelling. Wear pads on the head to make sure that your newly transplanted scalp does not come into direct contact with anything.
  • Day 10 to 14 – After day 10 you are allowed to sleep in other positions such as your side without putting pressure on the operated area of the scalp. Continue using disposable pads to protect your scalp from making direct contact with your pillow or other surfaces.
  • Day 14 onwards – After 14 days of the hair transplant, your grafts should be completely settled in and secure on your head. You can resume sleeping in your preferred positions without worrying about dislodging the grafts or irritating the scalp.

Sleeping after hair transplant: Do´s & Don’ts

Do's Don'ts
Do use extra pillows or a neck pillow to keep your head elevated in the right position during the first two weeks after the procedure. Do not toss and turn, sleep directly on the operated area or put pressure on your scalp.
So sleep in a recliner or use a travel pillow so you can avoid tossing and turning. Do not let the grafts come into direct contact before 14 days have passed.
Do use disposable pads in the first two weeks to safeguard your scalp from direct contact with any surfaces. Do not take sleeping pills if possible as they might increase the risk of disorientation and hitting your head during the night.

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Summary

Proper aftercare and precautions are necessary to achieve the best possible results after a hair transplant. One of the most common queries is how to sleep comfortably while protecting your hair grafts. Remember, your operated scalp should not touch or rub against any surface during the first two weeks of the surgery. 

To avoid the risk of damaging hair grafts or causing irritation on the scalp, wear disposable pads and sleep in a recliner or use pillows to elevate your head. These few simple steps can help you achieve a comfortable sleeping position that works for your recovery period.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can you start sleeping in a normal position again?

How can I sleep 7 days after a hair transplant?

Sources

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What does your hair loss look like?

Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW3Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW4Funnel_Hair_Loss_NW6My hair loss is different
Find DoctorFree & non-binding
  • Free
  • Fast
  • Non-binding
4.62/5
Medihair Ratings
Known from:
Medihair Forbes LogoMedihair Bloomberg Logo