Hair Transplant: Introduction

Turkey has become a global leader in hair transplantation over the past two decades. The journey began in the early 2000s, when Turkish clinics started adopting modern techniques, such as FUT and later FUE, attracting patients from Europe and the Middle East. With highly skilled surgeons, affordable prices, and advanced medical infrastructure, Turkey quickly gained international reputation. Istanbul, in particular, became the main hub for medical tourism in this field. Today, the country performs tens of thousands of successful procedures annually, using state-of-the-art technologies such as sapphire blades, DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), and robotic assistance, positioning Turkey at the forefront of innovation in hair restoration.

Hair Transplant: Full Procedure Explained

1️⃣ Initial Consultation

Discussion of expectations and possible outcomes.

Assessment of hair loss pattern.

Examination of donor area (usually the back of the head).

2️⃣ Hairline Design & Treatment Plan

Estimated number of grafts needed (typically 2,000–4,000).

Surgeon draws a natural-looking hairline.

3️⃣ Local Anesthesia

Patient stays awake but feels no pain.

Local anesthetic is injected into the scalp.

4️⃣ Graft Extraction

Two main techniques:

➤ FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

  • Individual follicular units are extracted using a micro punch tool.
  • No linear scar, quicker healing.

➤ FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation/Strip Method)

Leaves a fine scar at the back of the head.

A strip of scalp is removed and dissected under a microscope.

5️⃣ Graft Preparation

Kept in a cooling solution.

Follicles are cleaned and sorted under a microscope.

Grouped based on the number of hairs per graft (1, 2, 3, or 4 hairs).

6️⃣ Incision (Channel) Creation

Angle, direction, and depth are critical for a natural look.

Tiny incisions are made in the recipient area.

7️⃣ Graft Implantation

This step can take several hours depending on the number of grafts.

Each graft is inserted carefully into the recipient area.

8️⃣ Immediate Post-Op Care

Bandages or headbands may be worn for 1–2 days.

Redness and small scabs appear in the implanted area.

9️⃣ Recovery & Hair Growth Timeline

  • Scabs fall off within 7–10 days.
  • Transplanted hair sheds after 3–4 weeks (normal shedding phase).
  • New hair starts growing by the 3rd month.
  • Final results typically visible between 9–12 months.