44 Things You Should Know About Hair Transplants in Turkey
Turkey offers a wide range of options for those seeking hair restoration, regardless of whether they would rather be in Istanbul, Antalya, Ankara, or Izmir.
This all-inclusive overview addresses 44 critical facts on hair transplants performed in Turkey.
We have you covered from selecting the appropriate clinic and knowing the credentials of doctors to the expenses, the healing process, and post-operative treatment.
We will also explore the specifics of the treatments, possible side effects, and long-term success rates of hair transplants performed in Turkey.
This article will enable you to make a wise decision whether your interests are in learning how to maximize your vacation or in the newest methods like FUE and DHI.
Read on to learn all you need to know for a Turkey hair transplant trip gone right!
1. What Should I Expect During the Initial Consultation With a Hair Transplant Clinic in Turkey?
Many clinics offer free consultations via WhatsApp, email, or video call.
During the consultation, the doctor will review your medical history and photos of your hair from various angles.
Questions might include:
- How long have you been experiencing hair loss?
- Have you received any treatments for hair loss before?
- Do you have any chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes?
Based on your answers and photos, the doctor will discuss the number of grafts needed and whether you are a suitable candidate for a hair transplant.
Shortly after the consultation, you will understand your hair loss degree, determine your needed graft amount, explore package prices, discuss treatment options, address concerns, and understand the recovery timeline and process.
Make sure the photos you send are taken in daylight and with a high-resolution device if possible. Also, send photos from all the angles requested. Additionally, sending a 10-15 second video of your head from all angles can help the clinic make a more accurate assessment.
DK's Expert Advice
'' Make sure the photos you send are taken in daylight and with a high-resolution device if possible. Also, send photos from all the angles requested. Additionally, sending a 10-15 second video of your head from all angles can help the clinic make a more accurate assessment.''
2. What Kind of Questions Should I Ask Before Choosing a Clinic in Turkey?
Ask the correct questions to guarantee you get the finest possible treatment before selecting a hair transplant clinic in Turkey. These are some crucial questions meant to guide your decision-making by helping you:
- Are the doctors and medical staff certified and licensed?
- Can you provide testimonials or references from previous patients?
- What are the risks and potential complications associated with the procedure?
- What does the post-procedure care involve?
- What is the total cost of the procedure, including any hidden fees?
- Do you have a license to perform hair transplantation? Can you show it to me?
DK's Expert Advice
'' In addition to the general questions above, ask specific, detailed questions that are important to you and that you are particularly curious about. The quality of the clinic's answers to these unique and unexpected questions can provide important insights into the service you will receive. If the clinic gives dismissive or generic answers to your specific questions, it can indicate the overall quality of the service you will receive.''
3. Where Should I Go in Turkey for a Hair Transplant?
Hair transplants in Turkey are mainly done in Istanbul, Antalya, Ankara, and Izmir.
Istanbul and Antalya are among the top five most visited cities in Europe, making them popular destinations for hair transplants and dental treatments.
When choosing a city, consider the following:
- High online reputation and testimonials
- Compliance with legal requirements
- Membership in ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery)
- Many years of experience (check the establishment date of the clinic)
- Clear and thorough answers during online consultations
DK's Expert Advice
'' If you want to combine your trip with a beach and sun vacation, schedule your hair transplant for the last 2-3 days of your stay. This way, you can enjoy your activities during the first few days and dedicate the last 2-3 days to the procedure and related care. After a hair transplant, activities that cause sweating, direct sun exposure, and swimming are prohibited.''
4. What Are the Qualifications and Specialties of Doctors Who Can Legally Perform Hair Transplants in Turkey?
Hair transplants in Turkey can only be legally performed in licensed health institutions like DK Klinik and only under the supervision of dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or medical aesthetic doctors.
DK's Expert Advice
'' Don’t hesitate to ask for the specialist’s certification, the clinic’s hair transplant license, and any memberships in organizations like ISHRS. Most legitimate clinics already share these documents on their websites. This way, you ensure your safety both legally and health-wise.''
5. Are There Any Legal Regulations or Certifications for Hair Transplant Clinics in Turkey?
Yes, a legal hair transplant requires:
- A dermatologist or plastic surgeon in charge
- A licensed clinic
- Licensed nurses and anesthesia technicians in the team
Membership in reputable organizations like ISHRS is a positive indicator.
6. Is Hair Transplant in Turkey Safe?
Hair transplants in Turkey are very safe when performed in licensed clinics under the supervision of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
These conditions ensure the same safety standards as procedures in the US or Europe. However, be cautious of black-market clinics.
DK's Expert Advice
'' Turkey is the country with the highest number of hair transplants in the world, so the level of experience is very high. As long as the procedure is performed in a reputable center by a legal hair transplant team, it is very safe. For example, legal centers like DK Clinic are inspected annually by the Ministry of Health for safety measures.''
7. What is the Best Hair Transplant Clinic in Turkey?
According to the Turkish Ministry of Health, there are about 400 licensed hair transplant centers, but only 20 have doctors who are ISHRS members (including DK Klinik).
Clinics meeting these criteria typically have high success and satisfaction rates. Focus on eliminating unlicensed clinics rather than finding the single best one.
8. Which Location is Better for Hair Transplants: Antalya or Istanbul?
Istanbul is the leading city for hair transplants, followed by Antalya. Both cities are top tourist destinations in Europe, which has led to a more developed health tourism sector.
Licensed clinics with teams led by dermatologists or plastic surgeons are generally safe and expert in hair transplants.
For example, DK Klinik has been run by a dermatologist for 22 years and is a member of ISHRS.
One advantage of Antalya is the ability to combine a vacation with your hair transplant.
However, activities like swimming, sports, and direct sun exposure should be avoided for some time post-transplant, so it’s best to schedule your procedure towards the end of your holiday.
9. How Many People Travel to Turkey for Hair Transplants Every Year?
Over a million people travel to Turkey for hair transplants each year, making it the country with the highest number of hair transplants globally.
10. Does Hair Transplant in Turkey Work?
Yes, hair transplants in licensed Turkish clinics are generally very successful. The high level of expertise and positive results contribute to Turkey's reputation as a top destination for hair transplants.
DK's Expert Advice
'' If you want your hair transplant to go well, stay away from centers that make false claims, especially if your donor area isn't the best. A clinic with a good reputation will give you an honest assessment of what can be done for your situation. They won't make false claims just to get people. Clinics that you can trust will focus on getting good results instead of making big claims.''
11. What is the Success Rate of Hair Transplants in Turkey?
In a licensed hair transplant clinic, the survival rate of grafts performed by qualified professionals ranges from 85% to 95%.
The likelihood of an operation being deemed unsuccessful in these clinics is quite low. Most of the transplanted grafts take hold.
If success is defined as achieving a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, the rate is generally above 95% in a licensed clinic.
We measure our success by answering the following four questions:
- Did almost all of the transplanted grafts take hold?
- Was a natural result achieved?
- Is there any visible scarring in the donor area where the grafts were harvested?
- Is the patient satisfied with the results?
- Considering the limited donor area, was this the best possible outcome?
We can confidently say that hair transplants performed in licensed clinics under the supervision of experienced doctors in Turkey are more likely to be successful compared to those done in any other part of the world.
DK's Expert Advice
''For example, as seen in this research, during the operation, if the hair transplant team damages the "bulge" area of the hair follicle, where stem cells are located, it can harm the grafts and significantly reduce the success rate of the transplant. Therefore, the experience and expertise of the hair transplant team are critical factors.''
12. Are Hair Transplants in Turkey Guaranteed?
No aesthetic procedure can be guaranteed. Avoid clinics that market themselves with phrases like "guaranteed hair transplant" or "satisfaction guarantee."
A reliable clinic will realistically inform you about the number of grafts needed to cover all your bald spots and whether your donor area has enough capacity for this.
Guaranteeing that the results will satisfy the patient or be excellent is quite problematic. Experienced specialists can estimate the likely outcome by looking at the patient's photos, but guaranteeing it is a different matter.
The only aspect that can be guaranteed in a hair transplant is the survival rate of the grafts, because the survival rate is very low when performed by inexperienced and unqualified individuals.
However, in licensed and experienced clinics like DK Klinik, where licensed healthcare personnel and doctors perform the procedures, the survival rate of the grafts is quite high.
13. How Long Will My Hair Transplant Last?
Hair transplants are permanent. The transplanted hair follicles are your own, meaning the new grafts share the same characteristics and durability as your natural hair.
While transplanted hair is expected to last a lifetime, it is normal to lose about 10%-20% of the transplanted hair by the age of 60.
DK's Expert Advice
'' To improve the quality of your grafts and prevent long-term hair loss, pay attention to the following:
- Regular Hair Care: Steer clear of harsh chemicals and wash your hair gently. Apply gentle shampoos.
- A balanced diet high in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is recommended for a healthy diet. If necessary, think about taking supplements.
- Handle stress by engaging in stress-relieving activities such as yoga and meditation.
- Steer Clear of Heat and Chemicals: Restrict your usage of heat styling equipment, perms, and hair colors.''
Regular Hair Care: Steer clear of harsh chemicals and wash your hair gently. Apply gentle shampoos.
A balanced diet high in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is recommended for a healthy diet. If necessary, think about taking supplements.
Handle stress by engaging in stress-relieving activities such as yoga and meditation.
Steer Clear of Heat and Chemicals: Restrict your usage of heat styling equipment, perms, and hair colors.
14. Are Hair Transplants in Turkey Permanent?
Yes, hair transplants in Turkey are permanent, just like those done elsewhere.
The grafts are taken from a safe donor zone, which is resistant to hair loss.
However, aggressive hair loss in other areas can create the illusion that transplanted hair is falling out, and shock loss can cause temporary shedding of transplanted grafts, which will regrow.
15. What is the Maximum Number of Grafts That Can Be Safely Transplanted in a Single Session in Turkey?
We have been performing hair transplants for many years, and the maximum number of grafts we have safely extracted from both hair and beard areas in a single session is 6,951 grafts.
This number of grafts in a single session is quite rare. Based on our observations, only about one in every 500-1000 individuals has a donor area of sufficient quality to safely harvest this many grafts in one session.
Of course, some unlicensed centers collect what could be considered an aggressive number of grafts in a single session, but this comes with many risks.
If you are someone with an above-average quality donor area, you can expect approximately 3,500-4,000 grafts to be safely harvested in a single session.
DK's Expert Advice
'' Besides the nape area, which has a high survival rate and characteristics similar to normal hair grafts, the beard area can be used as a secondary donor region. Grafts collected from areas like the legs or chest not only look different but also have a lower survival rate. It is important to avoid harvesting grafts from these areas.''
16. Is There Any Age Limit for Undergoing Hair Transplantation in Turkey?
Hair transplants are generally not recommended for individuals under 27-28 years old, as hair loss may still be progressing rapidly. Transplanting at a younger age can result in an unnatural appearance as existing hair continues to fall out.
DK's Expert Advice
'' People under the age of 27-28 are not ideal for hair transplants because their hair loss is still ongoing. Similarly, individuals over the age of 60-65 are not ideal candidates because the quality of their grafts is lower.
The best candidates for hair transplants are those between the ages of 30-60, as their hair loss has usually stabilized or their hair loss pattern is fully established.''
17. When Choosing a Clinic in Turkey, Is It Sufficient to Only Look at the Before-and-After Pictures?
While before-and-after pictures and having many of these visuals are important for creating a positive impression, they are not sufficient on their own.
Unfortunately, some unlicensed clinics publish before-and-after pictures that do not belong to them or use Photoshop to alter the images.
After selecting a licensed and reliable clinic, we recommend reviewing online reviews. Additionally, details such as publishing detailed CVs of the doctors on the clinic’s website are important.
Furthermore, you should contact the clinic and ask detailed questions, and evaluate the quality of the answers they provide.
18. Can I See Testimonials or Reviews From Previous Hair Transplant Patients in Turkey?
Check written reviews on Google, video testimonials on the clinic's YouTube and Instagram accounts, and websites. A large number of reviews is usually a good sign.
19. What Are the Top 3 Signs of a Low-Quality Hair Transplant Clinic?
- Lack of detailed information about the doctor
- Operations conducted in hospitals due to lack of a proper facility
- Willingness to negotiate prices and offer significant discounts
20. How Much Would It Cost to Have a Hair Transplant in Turkey?
Hair transplant prices in Turkey vary widely. At licensed clinics like DK Klinik, under the supervision of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, prices start from £1800-£2000. For instance, our all-inclusive package costs £2000.
21. Why Do Hair Transplant Prices Vary Between Clinics in Turkey?
The pricing policies of clinics in Turkey vary. Most clinics charge per graft, while some clinics offer a fixed price regardless of the number of grafts.
For example, we are one of the few clinics that offer a fixed price for the sake of transparent pricing.
We do not believe in negotiating the number of grafts with the patient; instead, we believe in transplanting the number of grafts necessary to ensure the patient's satisfaction. Transplanting more grafts does not change our costs.
By maintaining a fixed price, we build a trust-based relationship with our patients, focusing on their satisfaction with the results.
Another reason for the significant price differences between clinics is the large number of black-market clinics.
These clinics are not authorized to perform hair transplants, and many use the names of doctors to build trust, although these doctors are not involved in any part of the operation.
Once you return to your country, if you encounter any problems, the people responding to you are not doctors and are therefore not competent.
However, with proper research, you can find hair transplant clinics of exceptionally high quality that meet global standards.
22. Are There Any Fees I'll Have to Pay Out of Pocket?
If you purchase a hair transplant package for your trip to Turkey, this package typically includes pre-transplant blood tests, the hair transplant procedure, transfers between the airport and hotel, 2 or 3 nights of hotel accommodation, and shampoos and medications for use after the operation.
Of course, it is rare but possible to hear that some unreliable hair transplant centers charge patients extra fees.
Like many institutions operating in the same sector, our package price includes these services.
However, some of our patients report that they did not estimate the amount of shampoo and foam needed for a certain period after the operation and found that it was not enough. In such cases, they purchase these products in their own countries at an additional cost, which is usually around 30-40 GBP.
23. How Long in Advance Should I Book a Hair Transplant?
For many clinics, this issue varies. The two most important factors determining how far in advance you need to make a reservation are "capacity" and "seasonality."
Demand for hair transplants decreases during the summer months due to the hot weather. Therefore, July, August, and September are generally more available compared to other months.
For clinics like DK Klinik, which prioritize quality and safety and serve a limited number of patients, capacity is another crucial criterion. Hair transplant centers that provide personalized care and operate under the supervision of doctors work with limited capacity.
Therefore, clinics like DK Klinik may require a deposit to confirm the reservation and secure your spot.
The best approach is to contact the clinic where you plan to have your hair transplant directly to ask how far in advance you need to book your appointment.
24. Which Hair Transplant Method Should I Choose?
Considering that FUT is no longer a commonly used method, FUE and DHI are the two most widely applied hair transplant techniques today. Any other methods mentioned are typically marketing tactics.
At our clinic, we can perform hair transplants using both techniques, but we prefer the DHI technique unless necessary. DHI transplants have a shorter downtime and often look more natural.
However, it is important to remember that effective results can also be achieved with FUE.
Therefore, we believe that the hair transplant technique should not be the primary focus. The main focus should be on the clinic and the qualifications of the individuals performing the procedure.
For a detailed comparison of the two techniques, please read our article.
25. What Type of Anesthesia is Used During Hair Transplant Surgery in Turkey?
Most clinics in Turkey use local anesthesia, administered through small injections into the scalp.
Patients typically feel pain only during the first 6-7 injections. Once the area is numb, the rest of the procedure is painless.
Some clinics use pressurized anesthesia devices, claimed to be painless, but this method is not widely accepted in the medical community.
26. Does Hair Transplant Hurt in Turkey?
Before a hair transplant, local anesthesia injections are administered to prevent pain during the procedure. These injections cause some discomfort, similar to the pain experienced during dental anesthesia.
Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, no pain is felt during the operation, but a sensation of tightness in the scalp may be experienced.
In the first couple of days after the operation, some pain may still be felt, but the medications we provide will help ensure that this pain is not severe.
27. How Long is the Recovery Period After a Hair Transplant in Turkey?
Expect minor bleeding, swelling, and redness. A 2-3 day rest period is recommended before returning to work. Redness and scabs in the transplanted area will clear up within two weeks with proper care.
28. Are There Any Potential Side Effects or Complications of Hair Transplant Surgery in Turkey?
Hair transplant success rates in licensed clinics are high, with graft survival rates between 85%-95%. The risk of complications is low in experienced clinics.
29. Do Turkish Hair Transplant Clinics Offer Follow-Up Care or Post-Operative Support?
Post-operative care is so crucial to the success of a hair transplant that, in our observation, it is one of the key indicators for distinguishing between a good clinic and an indifferent one.
A clinic that values its patients and cares about the success of the hair transplant will meticulously request photos from the patient at regular intervals, recommend additional medications if necessary, and continue to answer the patient's questions long after the procedure.
30. Is It Possible to Get Additional Medical or Cosmetic Services in Turkey?
Yes, it is possible. For example, since our clinic is a dermatology clinic, procedures such as botox and fillers, along with hair transplants, can be performed in short intervals.
Additionally, many people coming to Turkey undergo dental treatments and hair transplants on consecutive days. A significant number of our patients complete both dental treatments and hair transplants within a 7-day period in Turkey.
31. Is It Possible to Travel or Swim After a Hair Transplant in Turkey?
The first 15 days after a hair transplant are crucial for the success of the procedure and your health. During this period, you should avoid activities that cause sweating or could lead to infection, such as hammam, sauna, swimming, and sports. Therefore, while there is no issue with traveling, long trips can be risky.
32. Do I Need to Do Anything Special Before Getting My Hair Done in Turkey, Like Stop Smoking or Change the Way I Take My Medications?
- Stop taking aspirin and other blood thinners 5 days before the procedure
- Avoid alcohol and smoking 3 days before
- Discontinue strong painkillers 3 days prior
- Avoid herbal teas with blood-thinning effects 7 days before
On the day of the procedure:
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing
- Do not drive home after the procedure
- Eating before the procedure is fine
- Share your medication details with the clinic
- Ensure personal hygiene and wash your hair
33. What Should I Bring With Me When Traveling to Turkey for a Hair Transplant Procedure?
Besides essentials like chargers, sunscreen, and your passport, consider bringing:
- Headphones to listen to your own music during the procedure
- Loose and comfortable clothing, especially button-up shirts to avoid damaging the grafts when changing clothes
DK's Expert Advice
''We recommend packing 2 to 3 loose-fitting shirts in your suitcase when you come. Consider these shirts as ones you can afford to sacrifice because, despite our precautions, some blood may get on your clothing, and blood stains are difficult or sometimes impossible to remove.
If possible, bring or purchase 2 to 3 affordable, cotton shirts that are at least one size larger than what you normally wear (e.g., if you normally wear a large, bring extra-large). Shirts are not pulled over the head, which helps protect your newly transplanted grafts and the donor area.''
34. Why Are Different Clinics Giving Me Varying Information Regarding the Number of Grafts I Need?
Unfortunately, the most common reason we encounter is the use of graft numbers as a marketing tool. These companies typically overestimate the necessary number of grafts by 1000-2000 to convince the patient.
Some patients, believing that more grafts mean better results, choose the company offering the highest number of grafts at the lowest price.
Unfortunately, companies with such an ethical approach often transplant far fewer grafts than promised, leading to increased dissatisfaction.
The goal in hair transplantation should be to extract and transplant the number of grafts necessary for the patient from the donor area.
Additionally, aggressive harvesting should be avoided to ensure that patients have enough donor area for a potential second hair transplant in the future.
35. Can I Choose the Thickness or Density of My Transplanted Hair in Turkey?
The density of your transplanted hair depends on the quality of your donor area and whether you may need a second transplant in the future.
Patients with insufficient donor areas are advised to wait a year before undergoing a second transplant.
36. Can I Request a Specific Hairline Design During My Hair Transplant in Turkey?
We recommend that you indicate your desired hairline during the online consultation by sending a sample picture or drawing it simply using a basic application on your phone.
However, the hairline design should be adjusted based on factors such as age, facial suitability, and hair loss pattern.
For example, a very low hairline on an older person would look unnatural and not aesthetically pleasing.
Therefore, it is important to consider various factors and find a balance between the doctor's recommendation and your preference.
37. What is the Role of the Medical Team During a Hair Transplant Surgery in Turkey?
The medical team, under the doctor's supervision, is responsible for tasks such as measuring blood pressure, administering medications, shaving the patient's hair, and answering questions.
During the procedure, the team carefully collects grafts, selects quality grafts, and implants them using tools like the Choi Implanter Pen.
The medical team's expertise is crucial for a successful hair transplant.
38. Is It Possible to Undergo a Hair Transplant if I Have a History of Medical Conditions?
Common conditions like diabetes, and high blood pressure can be managed with medication, allowing for hair transplants under doctor supervision.
However, those with heart issues are generally advised against hair transplants.
Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy cannot have hair transplants, but those who have completed treatment may be eligible.
Patients with scalp conditions like eczema, fungal infections, or dermatitis should be evaluated by a doctor to determine suitability.
39. Are There Any Specific Pre-Operative Tests or Evaluations Required Before a Hair Transplant in Turkey?
Yes, you must be evaluated to ensure you are a suitable candidate. Patients with extensive open areas and limited donor reserves are not recommended for hair transplants.
Detailed blood tests should also be performed to assess for infections and evaluate relevant vitamins, hormones, and minerals.
40. Are There Any Non-Surgical Hair Restoration Options Available at Turkish Clinics?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and hair mesotherapy are non-surgical options used to treat hair loss. These treatments involve injecting the scalp with specific substances to slow down hair loss. Various shampoos and oral medications can also help. Conditions like vitamin deficiencies and thyroid disorders should be identified and treated. Licensed hair transplant clinics and health institutions often offer these treatments.
41. Should I Choose the Package Deals or Should I Buy My Own Flight Tickets and Hotel?
Avoid businesses that focus more on offering hotel, flight, and vacation packages than on providing quality healthcare services.
Your priority should always be the healthcare service you will receive. Nowadays, it is quite simple to book hotels, flights, and transfers.
Of course, some health institutions or medical tourism agencies may have agreements with hotels or airlines, and purchasing a package deal can be advantageous for you.
The key criterion to pay attention to here is whether the institution you are communicating with provides detailed and clear answers to all your health-related questions.
If they can give you satisfactory answers and prove their competence, then you can certainly benefit from advantageous package services.
42. What Are the Advantages of Getting a Hair Transplant in Turkey Compared to Other Countries?
The top three advantages of hair transplants in Turkey are affordable costs, high success rates due to experience, and the opportunity to combine the procedure with a short vacation thanks to Turkey's rich cultural offerings.
By choosing a reputable clinic in Turkey that has completed the necessary legal procedures, you can get a hair transplant at a much lower cost and with much higher expertise compared to an average clinic in your own country.
43. How Many Days Are Enough in Turkey for Hair Transplantation?
Visitors coming to Turkey for a hair transplant should plan to stay for at least two days. Experienced clinics like DK Klinik can perform some operations that require a high number of grafts and beard area harvesting over two consecutive days for patient safety. In such cases, a 3-4 day stay is ideal.
On the first day, a blood test is performed, the second day is for the operation, and the third day is for the first hair wash.
If the patient has limited time, the blood test and operation can be done on the same day, reducing the minimum stay in Turkey from three days to two days.
44. Can I go back to work after a hair transplant?
Your first hair wash should be done at the clinic one day after the operation. After the wash, you can return to your country. If your job does not require wearing a hard hat (e.g., construction work), you can return to work 3-4 days after the procedure.
