Graft survival is decided in the first 72 hours, and almost every avoidable loss happens on a pillow or in a shower.
Sleep on your back at 45° with a travel pillow around your neck so nothing touches the grafts. A single night face-down can dislodge dozens of follicles that were placed perfectly.
We perform the first wash at the clinic on day two or three and show you the technique: lotion to soften crusts, warm water poured by cup, no shower head pressure, no rubbing, pat dry. Repeat daily until crusts are gone around day 10–14.
Alcohol and smoking for a week (both restrict perfusion), gym and sauna for two weeks, direct sun for a month, swimming pools for three weeks, hats that press rather than rest for ten days.
Often appears on days 2–4 and can reach the eyelids. It is gravity moving anaesthetic fluid, not infection. Sleeping elevated and a cold compress on the forehead — never on the grafts — resolves it.
Occasional loss is normal. Losing several during a single wash means the technique is too aggressive — message your coordinator with a photo.