Headband-Prevention of Post-Operative Forehead Edema |
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One of the most common complications observed after hair
transplant surgery is forehead edema (swelling) and subsequent periorbital
ecchymosis (bruising around the eyes). This occurs as fluid from the recipient
area migrates downward along tissue planes from the top of the head to the upper
forehead, then to the area above the eyebrows and eventually down around the
eyes, where the appearance of bruising can be cosmetically distressing to the
patient.
Several therapeutic modalities have been utilized to prevent or
ameliorate this phenomenon, including the use of corticosteroids, ice packs to
the area, massaging the fluid laterally once it accumulates, and sleeping in a
semi-upright position. None of these techniques are universally successful.
A novel technique involves the use of a headband; the most optimal results
seem to revolve around two factors. First, a channel of least resistance needs
to be provided. This can be achieved by simply inserting a rolled-up gauze
beneath the headband at the level of the temples; thus, the fluid migrates
laterally and the downward, rather than directly down into the orbital region.
Secondly, the edges of the thumbs may be used to mechanically massage the fluid
laterally in a sweeping motion, from the midline outward toward the temples.
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