Two Post-Op Questions

Spinner

Hello,

I had 1,100 grafts this past December with Dr. Cole. Right now there is definitely signs of hairs but nothing astonishing. I'm almost at the 2 month mark and I have to say...the waiting is definitely killing me. I look pretty much exactly like I did before the procedure. I guess that's the way it goes though.

Anyway...two quick questions:

1. Is it OK if I rub Rogaine to the recipient site or do I have to avoid that area?

2. I really want to go tanning before my trip to L.A. this March. What precautions should I take in the tanning bed? Is a tanning booth really that detrimental to the new grafts?

Your advice would really be appreciated!!!

Spinner

Spinner

Hi,

Nobody responded to my post so let me ask again. I have been going tanning the last couple of days and I have been wearing a hat so my grafts don't get any light. I look a little silly though because a tan line is forming on my forehead. I had my grafts on my recessions a little over 2 months ago and I'm going on vacation in three weeks so I really want some color. How bad is it for my grafts to be exposed to a tanning bed? What if I did it 9 minutes 3 days a week for the next 3 weeks? I'd love to know the real consequence of exposing the grafts to sunlight early on.

Thanks!!!

Spinner

CITness

Spinner,

It is better to stay away from the tanning bed all together. If you must go to the tanning bed then add multiple layers of thick dark fabric beneath your hat even after a month or two post-op. Most single layer clothing articles have very low SPF value so it is better to use thick layered materials of a higher SPF. Typically, Rogaine is safe to apply onto recipient areas at two full weeks post-op.

My advice is not medical advice