Travel Accommodations Made Easy

Before You Book

Most out-of-town patients, especially those flying in, will arrive the day before their procedure. We manage the first 24 hours closely, so plan to stay the night of your procedure as well. The next morning, you'll come back in for a wash and check-up before you're free to head home.

Medication & Supplement Checklist

Your physician will review your medical history ahead of time, and our office will follow up with specific required directions. We will call in some standard medications to the pharmacy we have on record for you, to be used in the immediate post-procedure healing phase. Be sure to pick these up before you come in for the procedure.

As a general rule, plan to stop blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamins, and alcohol in the days before surgery, per your pre-procedure instructions and our office's guidance.

What to Pack

• Loose, button-down or zip-up shirts
• A travel neck pillow
• Comfortable, low-key clothing
• Any current prescriptions you've been instructed to continue

Getting Here

Most patients fly into Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about 15–20 minutes from our clinic. See Where to Stay above for hotel partnerships and local ride options.

Before You Arrive

Check your pre-procedure paperwork and prior clinic communication for your correct arrival time.

Because of the sedation and local anesthesia used during your procedure, you will not be able to drive yourself afterward. If you're local and plan to be picked up rather than take an Uber home, please arrange this ahead of time.

Getting Home Safely

If a friend or family member is picking you up, we'll call them about an hour before the procedure is complete. If you're staying at a nearby hotel, we can help coordinate an Uber right after your procedure.

What to Expect Right After

Immediately after your procedure, we'll give you snacks and electrolytes to help you through the post-procedure phase. Your grafts will be delicate at first, so we recommend heading back to your accommodation and staying upright and as immobile as possible for the evening. You'll receive specific directions, and we'll call to check in on you that night.

The First 48 Hours

The scalp is very vascular, so it heals fast, but the grafts are most delicate in the first 48 hours. Being very gentle and following the directions you're given is important during this window to ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

Washing Your Scalp

The morning after your procedure, we'll wash your scalp for you and give you clear directions for the coming week to 10 days. You'll wash 1–2 times daily at home, and we'll walk you through exactly how.

Flying Home Comfortably

• Choose an aisle seat, it's easier to move around and you won't be boxed in.
• Bring a neck pillow, keeps your head stable without resting against a seat or headrest.
• Wear a loose hat if you'd like extra coverage, something that doesn't touch the treated area. It's for privacy and sun protection, not pressure.
• Stay hydrated, especially on a flight, where dry cabin air can be tough on healing skin.
• Keep medications in your carry-on, post-op prescriptions, antibiotics, or saline sprays should travel with you, not in checked luggage.

Traveling With Medical Supplies

If you're carrying saline spray or other liquids related to your recovery, TSA allows medically necessary items beyond the standard limit, just notify the agent at screening.

The Days After You're Home

Small scabs typically start to flake off around day 5–6 and are generally gone by day 10–12. You'll have specific directions for daily washing, and if anything feels off, you have direct access to your care team by phone.