Frequently Asked Questions

Who can undergo a hair transplant?

The group of patients who undergo hair transplant are generally individuals experiencing androgenic hair loss (hair loss caused by factors like hormones, age, and genetic predisposition). Hair transplants can also be performed for women who experience male-pattern hair loss after a dermatological examination. Individuals who have previously undergone hair transplant but were dissatisfied, or those who have developed bald patches due to burns or certain diseases that cause hair loss, can also undergo a hair transplant, if deemed suitable.

Can anyone undergo a hair transplant?

The suitability of the patient is a crucial factor in hair transplant. Hair transplant can be performed for individuals who have significant hair loss, are in good general health, have a type of hair loss that is suitable for the operation, and have a sufficient donor area. The procedure is generally recommended for individuals between the ages of 22 and 65, though there is no specific age limit. If a patient meets the necessary criteria, the treatment can be planned regardless of their age.

How can I determine if I am suitable for a hair transplant?

To determine if a patient is suitable for a hair transplant, the patient’s information form and photos are reviewed. After a consultation with a dermatologist and the hair transplant team, the suitability is assessed. The procedure is then determined either through an online consultation or an in-person consultation at our clinic. In some cases, if a patient is not suitable for a hair transplant, alternative treatment options may be recommended.

In what kind of environment should a hair transplant be performed?

Hair transplant using the sedated FUE / DHI method should be performed in an environment that is hygienic and sterile, under the supervision of a dermatologist and a hair transplant team.

How long does a hair transplant take?

The duration of the procedure depends on the number of grafts to be transplanted and typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours.

How many grafts can be obtained in a single session?

In the FUE method, individual hair follicles are extracted and transferred to the appropriate area. It is more important to focus on how many of the grafts become permanent hair strands, rather than the number of grafts themselves. The number of grafts that can be extracted varies depending on the patient’s hair density. Typically, around 3000 to 6000 grafts can be obtained.

Is the hair transplant performed under sedation?

Yes, the hair transplant performed at our center is done with sedation (a type of anesthesia where the patient remains conscious but relaxed). A non-sedated procedure can also be performed according to the patient’s preference. Local anesthesia is applied throughout the procedure.

What should be done after the procedure?

After the hair transplant procedure is completed, the patient can resume their daily activities immediately.

What should be considered after a hair transplant?

• It is crucial to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations after a hair transplant. The postoperative process will be thoroughly explained to the patient.
• The scalp should be protected from physical impacts and harmful sun rays, especially during the first 48 hours. Hats that sit on the head without touching the transplant area can be worn. Safari hats or golf hats are suitable options.
• During sleep, a small and firm pillow should be used, and the hair follicles should not touch the blanket or pillow to avoid damage. Sleeping on your back is recommended.
• It is necessary to avoid sports activities that could damage the hair follicles (such as football, taekwondo, basketball), swimming, and sauna for a month, as they may increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid combing, coloring, and using a hair dryer for one month.
• For the first two days, the transplanted area should not come into contact with water. If possible, the first wash should be performed in a clinic environment after 48 hours.
• The patient should pay attention to their nutrition and water intake after the operation.
• Harmful habits such as alcohol and smoking should be avoided as they can harm the hair follicles by affecting oxygen flow to the body and hinder follicle nourishment.
• Avoid using gel, hair sprays, or similar products, as they can negatively affect the hair follicles.
• Since stress plays a significant role in hair loss, it is important to avoid stress.

Is hair transplant a risky procedure?

Hair transplant surgery must be performed in a clinical environment under the supervision of a dermatologist. Since the procedure involves direct contact with the skin, it is susceptible to skin infections. Therefore, choosing the right clinic is crucial. Factors such as the doctor’s experience, the clinical setting, the use of sterile equipment, conducting necessary tests before the surgery, and providing proper support after the operation should all be considered. Proper drawing of the hairline and performing the transplant in the right direction are also critical. After the hair transplant, pimples and small wounds may occur at the transplanted area. The process can be comfortably managed with creams and pain relievers to reduce swelling and inflammation.

When will the transplanted hair start to grow?

The patients are supported throughout the recovery process with photographs taken at the third (3rd), sixth (6th), and twelfth (12th) months after the operation. The recovery process may vary from person to person depending on genetic factors, hair structure, age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental factors. After the shock loss (which usually lasts for about one to two months), the transplanted hair follicles begin to grow. Growth starts from the fourth month, and by the twelfth month, a natural appearance is achieved. A successful result with a 95% or higher natural appearance is typically obtained by the twelfth month.

How should international patients plan their travel?

If the patient resides abroad, information regarding the operation date and technique at our clinic, as well as accommodation, transfer services, and the general process, will be provided. The patient is responsible for their flight ticket, visa, and passport procedures. (A certificate confirming that the patient will undergo a hair transplant for medical tourism purposes in Turkey will be provided by our clinic for the visa application process. Therefore, there is usually no issue during the visa application process.)

Should PRP be applied after hair transplantation?

PRP ensures the healthy and quality growth of the transplanted hair follicles and supports the hair transplantation process, providing the advantage of achieving a more efficient result. It is a natural and reliable application that uses plasma obtained from the person’s own blood. It is recommended because it promotes healing and cell regeneration after hair transplantation, and it is applied in our clinic by our experts, optionally combined with Vitamin C + Glutathione supplementation.

How Do Hair Transplanted After the Procedure Return to Their Natural Form?

In the first two (2) weeks after a hair transplant procedure, small wounds formed in the newly transplanted area scab over and fall off, marking the beginning of the healing process. The transplanted hair follicles (grafts) anchor to the skin and adapt to their new locations during this period. After about one month, sudden hair loss occurs, which is referred to as “Shock Loss” in hair transplant terminology. This can lead patients to wonder, “Was the procedure unsuccessful?” After this shock loss, the hair follicles that are permanent and enter the normal growth cycle begin to grow approximately 1–2 cm per month. During the recovery process, the hair follicles (grafts) that have not yet fully achieved their natural form may produce hair that is more irregular or weaker compared to normal hair. By following the recommended shampoos, vitamins, and dietary guidelines, patients can achieve healthy, quality hair follicles.

Starting from the second (2nd) month after the procedure, shock loss ends and the hair follicles (grafts) begin to grow.

By the fourth (4th) month after the hair transplant, the hair strands (grafts) begin to lengthen and take on a defined shape.

By the sixth (6th) month following the procedure, the hair follicles (grafts) grow between forty-five percent (45%) and eighty percent (80%), allowing the patient to feel more confident. The hair becomes visibly noticeable to the naked eye.

In the eighth (8th) month and beyond, the hair follicles (grafts) enter the normal growth cycle, becoming denser, thicker, and more natural in form. This leads the patient to feel more confident when looking in the mirror. In some patients, curly hair syndrome (where the hair follicles grow curly instead of straight due to genetic factors) disappears after the eighth (8th) month.

By the end of the twelfth (12th) month, the hair follicles (grafts) continue to grow naturally. Using the recommended shampoos, lotions, and vitamins, the hair becomes permanent and presents a full, healthy appearance, confirming that the patient has made the right decision.

How Much Do Transplanted Hair Follicles (Grafts) Grow and How Many Centimeters?

One of the frequently asked questions by patients, aside from when the transplanted hair will start growing, is “How much do transplanted hair follicles (grafts) grow?”

When hair follicles are harvested from the donor area, typically the nape of the neck, they will grow at the same rate as your natural hair and reach the desired length within one (1) year.

If hair follicles are harvested from secondary areas (chest, back, arm, leg, or genital regions) instead of the nape, the hair may not be as compatible with the natural hair texture. Therefore, the growth rate may vary depending on the area from which the follicles are taken.

Transplanted hair generally enters a natural growth cycle as the patient’s own hair at the end of the twelve (12) month period, starting to grow at an average rate of one (1) to two (2) cm per month.