Swimming 2 weeks after FUE?

[eddiemunster]

Hi all, I had about 800 grafts FUE with Dr. Diep 12 days ago. I'm an avid swimmer, and Dr. Diep has advised that it is safe to resume swimming after 2 weeks.

 

I've researched this and have come across some claims that chlorine kills grafts. some doctors advise patients to wait a month or even longer. I'd like to get back to the pool ASAP, but obviously don't want to risk any harm.

 

My question - has anyone had a negative experience with swimming/chlorine after 2 weeks? Can anyone substantiate any real risks associated with swimming after 2 weeks?

 

thanks in advance!

-Eddie

[crankyhair]

Probably impossible for people to know if swimming had an impact on their results months later after since they don't have a twin who had same procedure without swimming. But just as a disinterested third party I'd vote to wait. You're trying to get hair to live and sprout in their new home so give them every advantage and don't submerge them in chlorine.

[TakingThePlunge]

I prefer to err on the side of caution. Hair transplants are a large investment in money and time. I know it's tough to postpone fitness and leisure activities but I'd wait at least one month.

[KO]

I wouldn't do it if I were you. Seawater is supposed to be OK though.

[Dr Blake Bloxham]

Eddie,

 

The most important thing you can do is follow your own doctor's instructions carefully. Now, that doesn't mean you can't err on the side of "extra" caution -- as patients often do. But if you follow the clinic's post-op instructions to the letter, you should be good.

 

If you were my patient, I'd have no problem with you swimming after two weeks. By this point in time, the skin has healed over the grafts and formed a pretty strong barrier. It would be difficult for any caustic substance to really get in there and irritate the grafts. Not to mention the fact that the body has already formed a protective scar around the grafts and is likely already nourishing them with a developing blood supply. So they are pretty much like any other follicle at that point. A little more sensitive to some things, but I don't think swimming would hurt much at this point.

 

But what your doctor says is law! Hope this helps. Grow well.

 

PS:

 

If you are swimming outside, the sun is the real enemy -- in my opinion. Make sure you don't get a burn on the scalp two weeks after surgery.

[pkipling]

Exactly what Blake said. Listen to your doctor, and if anything, be extra cautious if for nothing more than your own peace of mind. And yes - I'd be more concerned about the sun than the chlorine if indeed you're in an outdoor pool.

 

Happy swimming and happy growing. :cool:

[gillenator]

Well stated by Dr. Blake...

[eddiemunster]

thanks much for the help here Dr. Blake and everyone; it is much appreciated! and sorry for delay, the response notifications apparently went to my junk mail.

 

FYI, I waited an extra 6 days, and took my first swim this morning (20 days after surgery), so am comfortable that it is all good.

 

thanks again!

[voxman]

I would wait for 21 days.

[jaswalraj1]

We advise to not swim in swimming pools with chlorine in the first 14 days after the transplant surgery as the chemicals may damage the grafts, it is however safe to swim in the sea from 5th day onward. Do not dive. After day 14 you can swim in swimming pools and apply sun lotion to the scalp and wear a hat if needed.