Dec 5th, 2019, 01:05 PM

Hair Transplant in Turkey

By Stella Sagini
Men in Instabul.jpg
Men in Instabul recovering from a Hair Transplant/Credit: AFP
The Ultimate Hair Transplant Guide for Men

Earlier this month, I went on an AUP cultural trip to Istanbul, Turkey. As we wandered through the streets of Istanbul, I started to notice a strange pattern. Bald men with mostly black jogging sweat bands and white bandages. One, two, three... ten of them. 

I turned to my friend Monique and asked, “Do you see this?” 

She replied, “Girl…..It’s a Hair Transplant!” 

According to Quartz, an estimated 60,000 men visit Istanbul annually for a Hair Transplant procedures. Istanbul has become world renowned for performing safe and successful procedures at affordable prices.

As we strolled through the winding streets of Istanbul. I just couldn’t believe it. The more we walked, the more I saw these bandaged men. At the bazaars and mosques, on the streets, in hotels, and even at the airport. I counted exactly 26 men with hair transplants by the end of my four day trip. However, I couldn’t help but wonder why these men would undergo this procedure? 

Men overtime have become more self-conscious about losing their hair. Recent studies by The American Psychological Journal depicts a direct correlation between social media and the decrease of male self-esteem. Young men have been feeling pressure from celebrity culture, society, and other men around them. According to the Huffingpost, almost half of men will experience some hair thinning by the age of 30. A majority will go the shaved-head route, but more men are now opting for hair transplants.

I believe men should seek this surgery, if they wish to boost their confidence.

Balding gentleman/Credit: Shutterstock

Keep reading below to find four reasons why you should get your hair transplant in Turkey.

World Class Treatment

With its experienced surgeons and cutting-edge equipment, Istanbul is the most popular hair transplant destination in the world. Over 350 clinics in the country, the industry is booming and is said to be worth an estimated $1 billion to the country’s economy drserkanaygin.com. Turkey was the first country to start follicular unit extraction (FUE), a method of obtaining hair follicles naturally for hair transplantation. Skilled surgeons in this area ensure that the surgery is done with the best precision and after care services.

Hair Transplant procedure in Istanbul/Credit: Daily Sabah

Cost

Istanbul offers world-class medical facilities at affordable prices for hair transplants. In the U.S. and most European countries it costs around $15,000. In Istanbul, it costs between $2,000 to $4,000.

Istanbul (the capital of Turkey) has established a reputation as the go-to destination for affordable hair transplants, attracting thousands of visitors from Europe and the Middle East each month. 

According to YouTube influencer Mattdominance there are various package options offered by Turkish clinics. However, he recommends spending a good amount of money (between $6,000 to $10,000). Cheaper options unfortunately do not input enough hair grafts to make the process successful,according to some of the men Mattdominance has interviewed in the past. Most providers claim they have the best offers for hair transplants, but it is always safe to choose a package with qualified doctors. One way to tell if the surgeon is qualified is if they are members of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.

Unqualified doctors can lead to scar tissue and grafting complications.

Solidarity

The healing process after a hair transplant is very pronounced. The bandages are noticeable from afar, which can make many feel quite vulnerable. However, in Istanbul there is solidarity in numbers. People do not stare as it’s been normalized. According to Quartz, there are about 150 - 500 surgeries performed per week in Istanbul. Therefore, you’ll be in good company in hotel lobbies and dinner halls should you decide to get a hair transplant.



Holiday destination

Pink Sunset, Istanbul/Credit: Ixigo

Istanbul is a perfect refuge to recuperate after surgery. Hair transplants clinics often partner with local hotels on special packages including flights and airport transfers. A hair transplant process may take you two to four days, including doctor check ups, and could cost as little as $1,500. Also, it’s interesting to note that Booking.com has a curated page dedicated to hotels near a famous hair transplant clinic Clinica.

After visiting Istanbul myself, I can attest to it being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Istanbul is rich in cultural heritage, cuisine, and hospitality. It’s a transnational city in the crossroads of civilization. 

Image Credit: Booking.com

Turkey’s hair loss industry shows no signs of receding (pun intended) and I encourage men that plan on getting a hair transplant to get the procedure in Istanbul. Click here for more information and reviews.