Eyebrow transplant, also known as Eyebrow Transplant Surgery, has gained significant popularity as a cosmetic procedure. The important question is: What should be done after an eyebrow transplant? As you know, today, various cosmetic surgeries are performed using different techniques, and eyebrow transplantation is no exception. Each method can yield different results.
To achieve the desired outcome from an eyebrow transplant, it must be performed in reputable clinics under the supervision of a specialist physician, and post-transplant care should be carefully followed. This prevents potential risks and complications after the cosmetic procedure.
There are many reasons why men and women undergo eyebrow transplantation—thinning eyebrows due to aging, over-plucking, or medical conditions leading to hair and eyebrow loss. If you are considering an eyebrow transplant, it is best to research the methods, the conditions of being a suitable candidate, and especially post-transplant care.
Like hair transplantation, eyebrow transplantation involves extracting hair grafts from the donor area and implanting them in the eyebrow region. These grafts are permanent and provide natural-looking results as they grow. However, to achieve these results, the transplanted eyebrows require proper care. Post-transplant care not only ensures the longevity of the results but also helps the eyebrows grow faster.
Importance of Candidate Conditions and Pre-Transplant Care
A natural eyebrow transplant requires special care. If neglected, you may not achieve the desired results. First, the underlying cause of eyebrow hair loss must be determined. Common causes include vitamin deficiencies, medical conditions, hereditary factors, burns, or stress. Identifying the cause of hair loss ensures that the process does not continue even after transplantation. If not addressed, the eyebrows may continue to thin, requiring another session of transplantation.
During consultation, the specialist examines the patient’s skin and eyebrow condition, reviews their medical history, and determines the appropriate method to achieve fuller eyebrows. For some individuals, medication may suffice, but for others, an eyebrow transplant is necessary.
Since eyebrows grow in different directions and textures, special care must be taken during transplantation. Typically, donor hair is taken from behind the ears, where the hair is softer, closely resembles eyebrow hair, and is resistant to hair loss.
Besides the physician’s expertise, post-transplant care is crucial for achieving a natural and aesthetic result.
Post-Eyebrow Transplant Care
As with any surgical procedure, the body needs time to heal after an eyebrow transplant. During recovery, the following care tips should be followed:
- Avoid touching or pressing on the eyebrows, as this reduces the risk of infection.
- When sleeping, use multiple pillows to keep your head elevated.
- Do not use eyebrow cosmetics, such as eyebrow pencils, as they may cause transplanted hairs to fall out.
- Take all prescribed medications as directed by your physician.
- Avoid direct sunlight for at least one month post-transplant.
- Stay away from dusty and polluted environments.
- Even after recovery, avoid excessive plucking or waxing of the transplanted eyebrows.
What to Expect After Eyebrow Transplant
During the first few days, swelling and redness may appear in both donor and recipient areas—this is a natural healing process. Between 3 to 7 days post-transplant, mild scabbing and redness may occur, which will fall off naturally. Do not scratch or pick at them.
Within 3–4 weeks, transplanted eyebrows may shed—this is completely normal due to temporary shock. If post-care is followed correctly, new growth will begin within a month.
Since grafts are taken from scalp hair, transplanted eyebrows may initially grow longer than natural eyebrows. Regular trimming with scissors is necessary until the hairs adapt to their new growth pattern, eventually behaving like natural eyebrows.
Consequences of Ignoring Post-Transplant Care
In about 90% of modern eyebrow transplants, the procedure is successful if post-care is followed. Neglecting medical advice can lead to complications, such as:
- Failure to take prescribed antibiotics can cause infection and negatively affect results.
- Swelling and pain should not be touched, as this may spread infection and damage the grafts.
- Avoid rubbing the eyebrows for at least one week to prevent weakening the transplanted follicles.
Rest, Nutrition, and Washing After Eyebrow Transplant
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in hair and eyebrow growth, as follicles require essential vitamins and nutrients. Since eyebrow grafts come from scalp follicles, they need the same nourishment to grow.
Adequate rest during the first week reduces risks of complications. Avoid strenuous activity or exercise for at least two weeks. Doctors recommend complete rest for the first 1–2 days, then gradually resuming normal activities.
The first wash is usually performed at the clinic to demonstrate the correct technique. From the third or fourth day, you may gently wash your eyebrows at home. Washing helps remove dried blood and scabs, but be sure to:
- Avoid applying pressure on the eyebrows.
- Use only physician-prescribed products.
- Ensure the water is neither too hot nor too cold and has no strong pressure.
Conclusion
Eyebrow transplant surgery has become a popular cosmetic procedure for those with thinning or lost eyebrows due to aging, over-plucking, or medical conditions. The success of the procedure depends not only on the surgeon’s expertise but also on proper post-transplant care.
The process involves extracting grafts—usually from behind the ears—and implanting them into the eyebrow area for permanent, natural-looking results. After surgery, patients must avoid touching or pressing the area, keep their head elevated while sleeping, avoid cosmetics and sunlight, and take prescribed medications. Temporary redness, swelling, scabbing, and shedding of transplanted hairs are normal stages of recovery, with new growth starting within a month.
Neglecting aftercare can lead to infections, poor healing, or graft failure, while proper rest, nutrition, and gentle washing promote healthy growth. In most cases, if medical advice is followed, eyebrow transplants achieve a natural and lasting outcome.
