If you’re considering restoring your hair in Turkey, understanding the step-by-step process can make your journey smoother and more confident. From your first consultation to post-surgery care, this guide walks you through exactly what happens before, during, and after your hair transplant procedure.
Why Choose Turkey for a Hair Transplant
Turkey has become a global leader in hair transplantation, performing more than 500,000 procedures annually. Clinics in Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya are known for their skilled surgeons, modern facilities, and affordable prices.
International Expertise and Affordability
- Expert Surgeons: Most Turkish doctors are ISHRS-certified with extensive international experience.
- Advanced Techniques: Clinics offer Sapphire FUE, DHI, and Hybrid methods.
- Affordable Pricing: The average cost ranges between $1,500 and $3,000, significantly lower than in the U.S. or Europe.
Step 1: Pre-Consultation and Planning
Your hair restoration journey begins with a thorough consultation either online or in person.
Hair Analysis and Design
The surgeon examines:
- Hair loss pattern (using the Norwood scale)
- Donor area density
- Scalp condition and expectations
A personalized hairline design is created to match your facial symmetry and age for natural results.
Medical Tests and Preparations
Before surgery, patients undergo:
- Blood tests (to rule out infections or conditions)
- Scalp cleansing
- Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and blood thinners for 3–5 days
This ensures the safest possible procedure.
Step 2: Surgery Day in Turkey
Surgery day is the most exciting part of your journey. You’ll arrive at the clinic early in the morning, meet your team, and review the final plan.
Local Anesthesia and Comfort
Your scalp is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Most patients watch TV or listen to music during the operation.
“The contact from start to end was very pleasant. You het licked up from the airport to the hotel. From the hotel to the clinic and back to the hotel for all the days you are there. The transplant was painless. You don’t see or feel any needles. The people that work there are very friendly and know what they are doing. I really recommend it.” – Laçin
Extraction and Implantation
The surgery is performed in two main stages:
- Extraction: Hair follicles are harvested individually from the donor area (back of the scalp) using micro-punch tools.
- Implantation: The extracted grafts are implanted into tiny incisions at natural angles.
Depending on the number of grafts, the procedure lasts 5–8 hours.
You’ll be offered breaks for meals and rest throughout the day.
Step 3: Immediate Post-Surgery Period
After surgery, a protective bandage is applied to the donor area. The transplanted region remains uncovered to allow airflow and healing.
Bandaging, Redness, and Sensations
You may experience:
- Mild swelling on the forehead or scalp
- Tightness or tingling around the donor area
- Slight redness in the recipient area
These symptoms are temporary and subside within 2–4 days.
Step 4: Aftercare and Recovery
Your before and after care routine determines how well your new grafts grow.
First 3 Days: Immediate Care
- Sleep with your head elevated at 45°
- Avoid touching or scratching the grafts
- Use the saline spray provided by your clinic
- Do not wash your hair until instructed (usually after 48 hours)
1–3 Weeks: Healing Phase
- Gentle washing begins after the third day
- Scabs start forming and naturally fall off after 10–14 days
- Redness fades gradually
- Avoid sweating, swimming, or heavy exercise during this period.
3–6 Months and Beyond: Growth Phase
- Transplanted hair may shed (known as shock loss) this is normal.
- New growth starts at 3 months and thickens significantly by 6–9 months.
- Full results appear around 12–15 months post-surgery.
Step 5: The Final Results
By one year, you’ll see dense, natural hair growth that can be styled, cut, or colored normally.
The results are permanent, provided the procedure was done by an experienced surgeon and proper aftercare was followed
Expert Tips for a Successful Hair Transplant Journey
- Choose a certified clinic with transparent before-after results.
- Follow all pre- and post-care instructions carefully.
- Stay patient hair growth takes time.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in biotin and protein.
- Avoid smoking and excessive stress during recovery.
🩺 “Your post-care discipline determines 70% of your final result,”
says Dr. Rasime Erkan, a leading Turkish hair restoration specialist.
FAQs About Hair Transplant in Turkey
1. How long will I stay in Turkey for a hair transplant?
Usually 3–4 days: consultation, surgery, and post-op check-up.
2. Is the surgery painful?
No. Local anesthesia makes the process virtually painless.
3. When can I return to work?
Most patients resume work within 3–5 days.
4. How long before new hair starts growing?
Visible growth begins at 3 months, with full density after 12 months.
5. Can I wear a hat after surgery?
Yes, but only after 10 days and only a loose, soft cap.
6. Will I need more than one session?
Depends on your baldness level and donor hair density. Most patients achieve desired results in one session.
🔗 Learn more about Types of Hair Transplant Techniques in Turkey »