Infection following a hair transplant is uncommon — surgeons typically prescribe prophylactic antibiotics to minimise the risk. However, it is important to know the early signs so that you can act quickly if infection does occur. Prompt treatment prevents serious complications.
Normal vs Abnormal Post-Operative Appearance
It is important to distinguish normal healing from early infection:
- Normal: Redness around graft sites for days 1–10; small yellow-white crusts; mild swelling; itching; pink donor area scars
- Potentially abnormal: Increasing redness beyond day 7; warmth or throbbing in a localised area; yellow or green discharge from graft sites; fever; unusual odour
Signs of Infection
Contact your clinic promptly if you notice:
- Expanding redness: An area of redness that is increasing in size day on day — particularly beyond the transplanted zone
- Pus: Yellowish or greenish discharge from any graft site (small amounts of clear/straw-coloured fluid is normal)
- Fever: Temperature above 38°C within the first 2 weeks
- Severe pain: Increasing rather than decreasing pain after the first 48–72 hours
- Swelling that is worsening: Particularly if accompanied by pain and warmth
What to Do
If you suspect infection, do not wait. Contact your clinic immediately. If you cannot reach your clinic and symptoms are severe, attend an urgent care centre or A&E. Early antibiotic treatment — usually oral — resolves most post-transplant infections without affecting the final result.
Prevention
Follow your aftercare instructions precisely — particularly regarding hand hygiene, gentle washing technique, and avoiding activities that introduce bacteria to the healing scalp (pools, gyms, contact sports).
Harley Street Hairline provides full aftercare support throughout your recovery →
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