Post-Surgery Hair Care: Essential Tips for Managing Hair and Incision Sites After Facial Feminization Surgery

Post-surgery hair care is an essential aspect of the healing and recovery process after facial feminization surgery. By managing incision sites, choosing the right haircuts, addressing thinning hair, and selecting quality wigs or hairpieces, you can enhance the results of your surgery and achieve a look that aligns with your authentic self.

In the following, we will explore essential tips for post-surgery hair care, covering topics such as managing incision sites, choosing the right cuts and styles that complement your new facial structure, addressing male-pattern baldness, and selecting and maintaining high-quality wigs and hairpieces. Additionally, we will provide helpful contacts and resources for those navigating these aspects of their post-surgical journey.

1. Managing Incision Sites and Post-Surgery Scalp Care

One of the most important aspects of post-surgery hair care is properly managing the incision sites. FFS often involves incisions along the hairline, around the ears, or in other areas of the face and scalp. Proper care of these incisions ensures optimal healing, prevents scarring, and minimizes the risk of infection.

Key Tips for Incision Care:

• Follow Surgeon’s Instructions: Always follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions regarding the care of incision sites. This may include applying ointments or specific medications to prevent infection and promote healing.
• Avoid Scratching or Pulling: It’s essential to resist the urge to scratch or touch the incision areas, as this can lead to scarring, infection, or damage to the delicate skin.
• Gentle Hair Washing: When your surgeon clears you to wash your hair (typically after a few days to weeks, depending on your surgery), be sure to use a gentle shampoo. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your hairline directly. Instead, gently massage the shampoo into the scalp.
• Scar Management: Once the incisions have fully healed (usually after a few weeks to months), consider using silicone sheets or gels to reduce scarring. Consult with your surgeon for scar treatments specifically suited for your skin and surgery type.

Recommended Products for Scar Care:

• Mederma Scar Gel: A well-known product for minimizing scars.
• Silagen Silicone Gel Sheets: These sheets can be applied to healing scars to reduce visibility.

2. Choosing Haircuts and Styles That Complement Your Facial Structure

After undergoing FFS, your facial structure will have undergone significant changes, including modifications to the brow, jaw, nose, and chin. As a result, it’s important to adapt your hairstyle to highlight your newly feminized features, ensuring that your hair complements your face shape and enhances your overall appearance.

Choosing the Right Hairstyle:

• Consult a Stylist Experienced with Transgender Clients: A stylist who understands the impact of facial feminization surgery can help you choose a cut that suits your new features. Ask for a consultation that includes advice on what works best for your new face shape.
• Consider Your Face Shape: After FFS, your face shape may change. If you have a heart-shaped face, a soft fringe or long layers will help balance the angles of your jaw. For round faces, layers and height at the crown can elongate the face.
• Avoid Short Cuts Initially: While short cuts can be flattering, it may take time for your hair to settle into its new shape after surgery. Longer styles or layers can help frame the face and soften the transition as your features heal.
• Embrace Texture: Experimenting with texture, curls, or waves can give your hair more volume and movement, enhancing your femininity while drawing attention away from the hairline.

Helpful Resources for Hairstyling:

• Hairdressers for Transgender Individuals: Search for stylists who specialize in transgender hair care on platforms like The Trevor Project or Transgender Equality Handbook. These professionals will have an understanding of the unique needs of those post-transition, including FFS patients.

3. Addressing Male-Pattern Baldness and Thinning Hair

For many transgender women, male-pattern baldness or thinning hair may be a concern, especially if they have experienced hair loss prior to surgery. Whether you have bald spots, receding hairlines, or overall thinning, there are several options to address these issues while still achieving a natural and feminine appearance.

Options for Managing Thinning Hair:

• Hair Transplants: For those experiencing male-pattern baldness, hair transplants are a viable option. These procedures involve transplanting healthy hair follicles from other areas of the scalp to areas with thinning or no hair. Transgender women often find this to be a good solution for areas affected by receding hairlines.
• Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is an over-the-counter treatment that can help stimulate hair growth. If you’re experiencing thinning hair, it’s worth discussing the use of this medication with your healthcare provider.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): This non-invasive treatment uses light to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Many clinics offer LLLT as a treatment for those with thinning hair or male-pattern baldness.

Consult with a Dermatologist or Hair Restoration Specialist:

• For more advanced solutions like hair transplants or laser therapy, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or a hair restoration specialist. They can assess the degree of hair loss and recommend personalized treatment options.

Helpful Resources for Hair Restoration:

• International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS): Visit ISHRS for information on hair restoration and finding qualified surgeons.
• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Learn more about hair loss treatments at AAD.

4. Wig Selection and Maintenance

For many transgender women, wigs offer a flexible and immediate solution to styling hair, especially if hair loss or thinning is a concern. Wigs can also provide an opportunity to experiment with different styles, colors, and lengths while you recover from surgery or adjust to your new appearance.

Choosing the Right Wig:

• Human Hair vs. Synthetic Hair: Human hair wigs offer the most natural look and feel but require more maintenance. Synthetic wigs are more affordable and easier to maintain, but they may not last as long or look as natural in the long run.
• Color and Style: When selecting a wig, consider your desired style and color, keeping in mind your overall aesthetic. Wigs with bangs or soft layers can complement a newly feminized face, while longer, flowing styles may soften the jawline and balance facial features.
• Wig Cap Size and Fit: It’s important to ensure your wig fits properly. A wig that is too tight can cause discomfort, while a loose wig can look unnatural. Most wig stores offer a range of sizes, or you can have a wig customized for your head shape.

Wig Maintenance:

• Washing Your Wig: Gently wash your wig every 10-15 wears, or as needed. Use a gentle shampoo designed for wigs and avoid rubbing the hair.
• Storage: Store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to help maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
• Combing and Brushing: Use a wig brush or wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your wig. Be sure to brush from the tips of the hair and work your way up to the roots to avoid damaging the strands.

Helpful Online Resources for Wigs:

• Wigs.com: A leading supplier of wigs, offering a variety of styles, colors, and materials. 
• Haircube: A popular brand available on Amazon, offering a variety of styles. 
• Sam's Beauty: Known for its great selection and good prices
• Additionally, Amazon offers a wide selection of wigs at affordable prices.

5. Choosing and Caring for High-Quality Hairpieces

In addition to wigs, other types of hairpieces such as hair extensions or clip-ins can be used to enhance volume or length. If you choose a high-quality human hair piece or extensions, proper care is crucial to ensure longevity and a natural look.

Tips for Caring for Hairpieces:

• Avoid Heat Damage: Just like natural hair, hairpieces can be damaged by excessive heat. Avoid using hot tools such as curling irons or straighteners unless the hairpiece is specifically labeled as heat-resistant.
• Regular Cleaning: Wash hairpieces as needed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, washing every 10-15 uses is recommended.
• Storage and Handling: Store hairpieces in a cool, dry place. When not in use, hang them on a hook or place them on a mannequin head to avoid tangling and preserve their shape.

Helpful Resources for Hairpieces:

• HairUWear: Offers a wide variety of high-quality wigs and hairpieces for transgender women. 

For personalized guidance, consult with specialists in hair restoration, wig care, or hairstyling, and don’t forget to follow your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions for the best results. With patience, care, and the right resources, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy hair that complements your newly feminized features.