Pre-operation preparation
The Shapiro Medical Group provided me with a list of instructions to follow prior to my surgery. These rules are geared towards increasing your changes of a successful hair transplant.
Because of the last minute change to my surgery date, I wasn’t as conscientious of these pre-operation instructions as I should’ve been. Most of these rules are about decreasing medication or activity that can thin your blood. Some of these instructions include:
- Don’t drink alcohol 7 days prior to surgery (I managed 4 days)
- Take Advil 14 days prior to surgery (I didn’t follow this as I am prone to frequent headaches)
- Don’t smoke 1 month prior to surgery (I’m not a smoker)
- No strenuous exercise 1 week prior to surgery (I haven’t worked out 6 months)
The other rules comprise of wearing comfortable clothing, drink plenty of water, and don’t cut your hair.
Every doctor and clinic has their own pre-op instructions and timelines.
Travel
I decided to travel the day before my hair transplant so I don’t feel rushed.
Traveling during COVID-19 is an experience. Most of the stores and restaurants are closed, services are limited on the flight, and hotel amenities are non-existent.
Through all the COVID travel craziness, my upgraded suite at the Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington hotel was the perfect place to call home for a few days. The room was equipped with a 50″ flat screen TV, a desk, and a couch with side tables. Growing up in Minnesota, I appreciated the modern Minnesota design of the room. After settling into my room, I scoured the Web to find some food. I wasn’t interested in the usual pizza, sub, or gas station snacks. I found a local Italian restaurant that was still open for pickup, Ciao Bella. They were extremely friendly when ordering on the phone, provided a great curbside pickup experience, and the food was amazing. After my dinner, I was already planning my meal for tomorrow night.
Nerves
My nerves suddenly kicked into high gear. Of all times I could use a Woodford Reserve Manhattan, but I’m not going to risk drinking the night before surgery. The tension washing over me contains feelings of excitement, fear, and regret.
I’m excited that I am finally going through with my hair transplant. But, I fear an unknown outcome and regretting spending this amount of money for something that doesn’t look natural. What helps squelch my nerves is the support of my husband, and my confidence that I choose the right doctor.
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