Several medications increase bleeding risk during hair transplant or affect healing post-procedure. Stopping them at the right time before the procedure reduces complication risk significantly.
Medications to Stop Before Hair Transplant
Aspirin and aspirin-containing medications: Stop 7–10 days before the procedure. Aspirin irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation — meaning its anticoagulant effect persists for the life of the platelet (7–10 days).
NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac): Stop 7 days before. Similar platelet effects to aspirin (reversible but significant).
Clopidogrel (Plavix) and similar antiplatelet agents: Stop 5–7 days before, but ONLY in consultation with your cardiologist or prescribing physician. Do not stop these unilaterally if prescribed for cardiovascular protection.
Warfarin: Requires coordination with prescribing physician. INR should be in acceptable range for elective procedure. Never stop unilaterally.
Newer anticoagulants (rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran): Stop 24–48 hours before, but only in coordination with prescribing physician.
Vitamin E supplements: Stop 2 weeks before — vitamin E has anticoagulant properties at higher doses.
Fish oil supplements: Stop 2 weeks before — inhibits platelet aggregation.
Herbal supplements (garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, feverfew): Stop 2 weeks before — many have anticoagulant or platelet-inhibiting effects.
Finasteride/minoxidil: Do NOT stop these. They support hair health and should be continued throughout.
Medications That Are Fine to Continue
Antihypertensives (blood pressure medications), statins, thyroid medication, metformin (discuss with surgeon), most antidepressants (SSRIs have mild platelet effects — discuss but typically continue).
Always Disclose Everything
Even over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements should be disclosed at consultation. A complete medication list allows the surgical team to advise appropriately on each item.
Our pre-operative consultation includes a thorough medication review. Never stop prescribed medications unilaterally — always in consultation with your prescribing physician.