Hair transplant surgery is typically not considered to be a painful procedure. Most hair transplant procedures are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area being treated. This means that patients should not feel any pain during the procedure.
The initial few minutes are the most painful because the local anesthesia is administered using needles (similar to a dental procedure), which cause ‘pinching’ sensations. It lasts only a few moments.
After the procedure, some patients may experience discomfort or pain for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and/or prescribed medication. The surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions, including information on managing any discomfort or pain.
It is normal to experience some swelling, redness, and tenderness around the transplant site after the procedure. These side effects should resolve within a few days. Some patients may also experience numbness or tingling at the transplant site, which is also temporary.
The biggest discomfort after the procedure is related to limited sleeping comfort in the first 2 weeks. During the first 2 weeks, its important for the transplanted hair not to have any impact. That’s why patients need to sleep in raised position (45 degrees), with a travel pillow around the neck for the first 2 weeks.
In conclusion, hair transplant surgery is typically not considered to be a painful procedure. Most patients do not experience significant discomfort after the procedure, and any discomfort or pain that does occur can usually be managed with medication. It is important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon to minimize any discomfort or pain and ensure the best possible outcome.