How to Sleep After a Hair Transplant: Protecting Your Grafts the First 72 Hours

You should keep your head elevated at a 45-degree angle during your sleep in order not to dislodge your grafts in the first 72 hours.

A 45-degree angle during your sleep can prevent your scalp from touching the pillow directly and reduce swelling by keeping blood from pooling in your head.

Using a travel neck pillow is an effective way to stabilise your position and prevent your body from rolling onto your sides or stomach, which could tear out the new follicles.

The first three days following a hair transplant are a critical window for your recovery. During this period, the grafts are physically fragile and have not yet rooted into your scalp. Any friction or pressure can easily pop them out.

Here is our guide on how to sleep during 72-hour recovery period after a hair transplantation.

Set up an incline during your sleep

Lying flat is one of the biggest risks to your results. When you lie flat, blood pressure increases in the scalp. This can lead to "graft popping" and severe forehead swelling.

Use a wedge pillow: A wedge pillow will provide you with a stable, firm slope that keeps your entire upper body at a consistent 45-degree angle.

A wedge pillow could be more reliable than stacking standard pillows, which can shift or flatten during the night.

Stack firm pillows: If you do not have a wedge pillow, you can use three or four firm pillows to create a steady ramp for your torso.

You need to make sure the pillows are stiff enough to support your weight without collapsing while you sleep.

Sleep in a recliner: A reclining chair is also a safe option because it has a fixed shape that prevents you from rolling over. The built-in armrests and headrest will keep your body in the necessary upright position.

Secure your head

During your sleep, your body naturally wants to roll over. You will need physical barriers to prevent this roll over.

The travel pillows: A U-shaped travel pillow supports the base of your skull and keeps your head facing forward. You can prevent the recipient area from making contact with your bedding and protect the grafts on the sides of your scalp by using a travel pillow.

Bolster pillows: You can place large pillows or rolled-up towels on both sides of your waist and shoulders to build a physical barrier. This "nest" makes it much harder for your body to turn onto your side or stomach in your sleep.

Maintain a sterile sleep environment

Keeping your bed clean is a good way to shield your scalp from infection during your recovery. Since your skin is extra sensitive in those first three days, a fresh sleep setup will keep bacteria away and give your new grafts a safe environment to take hold.

Wash your sheets in hot water: You can wash your sheets with a high-temperature cycle to kill any lingering bacteria or dust mites before your first night home. This makes sure your recovery starts in a sanitized environment that won't irritate your sensitive scalp.

Use fresh pillowcases every night: You will need to change your pillowcase daily for the first week to avoid sleeping on dried fluids or sweat. Fresh fabric will prevent bacteria from building up and coming into contact with your open wounds.

Keep pets out of the bed: Household pets carry dander and germs that can easily cause a scalp infection. Restrict your pets from entering your bedroom entirely during the first 72 hours to keep the air and surfaces as clean as possible.

Dust your bedroom surfaces: You can clean your nightstand and headboard with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dust. By keeping the air clear of particles, you can reduce the chance of irritants landing on your scalp while you rest.

Avoid heavy blankets: You can use lightweight, breathable blankets to prevent overheating and sweating during the night. Excessive sweat can mix with bacteria and clog the pores around your new grafts, leading to inflammation.

Choose a silk or satin pillowcase

Standard cotton pillowcases have a rough texture that can snag the tiny scabs forming around your grafts.

Silk or satin: These fabrics have a slick surface that allows your head to glide without catching or pulling on your skin. Silk or satin fabrics reduce the risk of friction that could accidentally dislodge a newly placed follicle.

Avoid loose threads: You can check your bedding for any loose loops, fraying edges, or decorative stitching. These small threads can easily hook onto a scab and pull a graft out if you move your head.

Monitor your post-op symptoms

It is hard to sleep when your scalp feels tight or itchy.

Hydrate the scalp: You can use the saline spray provided by your clinic to keep your scalp moist. A hydrated scalp is less likely to itch, which reduces the chance of you reaching for your head while you are unconscious.

Keep your hands clean: Always wash your hands well before getting into bed. If you do touch your head during the night, clean skin reduces the risk of introducing a bacterial infection to the open pores.

FAQ

How do I know if I lost a graft? 

You will usually see a spot of blood and a small, white bulb on your pillowcase. If this happens, do not try to put it back; contact your clinic immediately for advice.

Is it okay if I see some fluid on my pillow? 

Small amounts of clear or pinkish fluid are normal as the anesthesia and saline leave your scalp. Swap the pillowcase for a clean one immediately to keep the area dry and sterile.

When can I sleep flat again? 

Most doctors recommend waiting 7 to 10 days before returning to your normal sleeping position. The danger of dislodging a graft drops significantly after the first 72 hours, but caution is still necessary.

Takeaways

Maintaining a 45-degree angle for at least three days helps stop swelling and protects your new follicles. This specific height keeps the blood pressure in your scalp low and stable during the initial healing phase.

A neck pillow and side bolsters prevent you from rolling over onto your grafts while you sleep. These tools act as a physical reminder to stay on your back throughout the night.

Washing all bedding in hot water and using a new silk or satin pillowcase every night keeps your recovery zone sterile. This choice minimizes friction and reduces the risk of a scalp infection.

Keeping animals away from your sleeping area prevents dander and hair from reaching your incisions. The presence of pets increases the risk of introducing unwanted bacteria to your healing skin.