01
First line
Paracetamol or acetaminophen on schedule for the first 48 hours.
First nights
Managing discomfort and sleeping safely
Most patients need less medication than they expect. Position matters more than pills.
What discomfort actually feels like
The recipient area is rarely sore — it is skin-depth work with little deep sensation. What patients feel is tightness across the donor area for FUT, or a dull all-over ache for FUE, usually peaking on the first evening as the anaesthetic wears off.
Take the first dose of analgesia before the numbness fades rather than after. Staying ahead of discomfort needs far less medication than chasing it.
Medication
02
Avoid
Aspirin and anti-inflammatories for the first week unless we tell you otherwise — they increase bleeding and swelling.
03
Prescribed options
A stronger analgesic and a short-term sleep aid are provided for the first two nights if you want them.
04
Antibiotics and steroids
Only when prescribed for your case; finish the course as directed.
Sleeping without damaging grafts
01
Elevate for 5 nights
A recliner or two pillows under a wedge. Elevation reduces forehead swelling more than any medication does.
02
Sleep on your back
Nothing should touch the recipient area for the first week.
03
Use the travel pillow
A U-shaped neck pillow stops side-rolling in your sleep.
04
Protect the bedding
Dark towels over the pillow for the first two nights; minor oozing is normal.
Talk to the surgeon who would perform your procedure
Consultations are free, measured and without obligation — in Newport Beach or by video.