A hair transplant is the relocation of healthy follicles from the donor area to a thinning/bald area; modern practice relies on moving follicular units individually or via a strip method.
Having adequate donor hair and the ability to grow hair in the recipient area are fundamental;indications include male/female pattern hair loss, stable scarred areas, and eyebrow/beard restoration.
Because loss can progress rapidly and donor reserves are limited,early-age transplantation is often deferred and medical therapy recommended first; if shedding is not at a bothersome level, waiting until after age 25 is advised.
Balding areas have higher androgen receptor and 5-alpha-reductase levels;occipital follicles are relatively resistant to DHT and retain this property in their new location (“donor dominanceˮ).
Temporary shedding (telogen/“shock lossˮ) is expected between weeks 2-8; new growth
typically begins between months 3-6.
Most patients see noticeable results at 6-9 months; in some, it can take 12-16 months.
In FUT, a strip of scalp is removed from the nape (higher chance of a linear scar);in FUE, follicles are harvested individually with small punches (leaving punctate dot scars). A detailed definition of FUE entered the literature in 2002.
Not exactly. FUE does not create a linear scar; however, it leaves numerous punctate
(dot-like) scars in the donor.Overharvesting can cause visible thinning.
“Sapphireˮ refers to the blade material used for recipient-site creation; itʼs more about instrument choice than a distinct technique. Guidelines/overviews focus on minimizing recipient-site trauma with different tools such as blades/needles.
The implanter pen described by Choi in 1992 allows direct placement of grafts through a needle;in current practice it can be used into pre-made channels or for simultaneous placement.
The region expected to remain hair-bearing for life;grafts harvested here provide durable
coverage. Correctly defining boundaries and avoiding overharvesting are essential.
Overharvesting-related thinning causes permanent, difficult-to-correct cosmetic problems;the ISHRS FUE guideline recommends densitometry and careful area planning.
Because follicles have C-shaped curves, transection risk during harvesting is higher.Proper punch selection, low speed/controlled motion, and an experienced team are critical.
Yes. In appropriately selected female pattern hair loss (especially Ludwig II-III), hair
transplantation is among the options.
Not in the active phase; once these conditions are stable and the diagnosis confirmed, transplantation can be considered cautiously.Recurrence risk and limited success must be explained.
Micrografts can dry out and be damaged within minutes;holding them in cold isotonic
solution and handling swiftly and gently are critical for survival.
Usually 4-8 hours; for large cases, a short second session the next day may be needed.Most patients are awake under local anesthesia.
No. Transplantation does not halt ongoing loss; your physician may recommend adjunct
medical therapies to preserve the result.No. Transplantation does not halt ongoing loss; your physician may recommend adjunct
medical therapies to preserve the result.
The most common minor issues are edema, folliculitis, and scar changes; large series report an overall complication rate around 10.7%. Serious complications are rare in experienced hands.
Yes; FUE can enable graft harvesting from non-scalp sites like beard/chest where appropriate, assessed case by case.However, at Hair of Istanbul we avoid such approaches whenever possible. There is no guarantee that hairs from these areas will not miniaturize or be lost over time.
In the weeks after surgery, telogen effluvium-type temporary shedding may occur in the recipient and, rarely, donor areas;in most cases it regrows. Donor shock loss has been described after both FUT and FUE.
Expectations must be realistic; depending on hair shaft diameter/density and donor reserves, more than one session may be needed. This depends on individualized planning rather than a fixed number.
The procedure is performed mostly under local anesthesia; the patient is awake. A multidisciplinary team with an Anesthesiology Doctor, trained technicians, and basic life- support readiness is recommended.
Yes. Nicotineʼs vasoconstrictive effects can impair graft survival and wound healing;regular smokers face a risk of reduced yield. Reduction/cessation is advised.
Not mandatory. Meta-analyses suggest PRP may increase density/shaft caliber in AGA, but evidence quality varies;protocols combined with transplantation are heterogeneous. Data on LLLT-mediated biostimulation are also evolving and differ by center.
Post-op instructions vary by center; the aim is to protect grafts while controlling crusting.Avoid strenuous exercise/trauma early on and follow your clinicʼs written instructions exactly.
Most suitable are female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and traction alopecia.In scarring types
(e.g., CCCA), success depends on strict selection and careful evaluation.
Yes; however, donor selection and technique depend on the target area:Eyebrow transplant: Typically single follicular units from the occipital scalp are harvested via FUE and placed at very shallow angles (-10-15°).
Beard transplant: Most often grafts are taken from the occipital donor and placed in the beard. In selected cases, limited donor harvesting from the submandibular beard can be considered; attention to scarring, direction, and curl match is crucial.
Scar repair (burn/trauma/surgical): Possible in mature, well-vascularized scars. Success depends on scar thickness/perfusion; consider scar preparation first (e.g., fractional laser, microneedling, steroid/PRP), start with lower density, and plan multiple sessions if needed.
Note: If there is active inflammation/scarring alopecia, control the disease first; donor management and natural direction/angle design ultimately determine the outcome.
Most hair transplants are safely performed under local anesthesia.Patients with controlled hypertension, diabetes, clotting disorders, cardiovascular disease, or potential drug interactions should undergo pre-op assessment (cardiology/anesthesiology as needed).
There is no single universal rate; donor quality, time out of body, trauma/desiccation control, surgical technique, and patient aftercare are decisive.Therefore, clinics do not provide a “percentage guaranteeˮ; process control and biology are key.
Overly dense packing can compromise blood/oxygen supply and reduce survival.Density is planned according to hair caliber, curl, skin laxity, and vascularity; when needed, a staged (two-session) approach is preferred. Today, if the donor area is sufficient, up to -5,000+ grafts can achieve lasting results in a single session when indicated.
Protocols differ; a common approach is gentle washing at 48-72 hours.The goals are to dissolve crusts in a controlled way and protect grafts from mechanical trauma; strictly follow the clinicʼs instructions.
Limit heavy exercise and sweating for 15-30 days, avoid direct sun for 4-6 weeks, and postpone sea/pool typically 4-6 weeks.A hat can usually be worn loosely/without contact after the first week. (Follow your clinicʼs protocol first.)
Routine prophylactic antibiotics depend on the center and patient risk; they are not mandatory for everyone. Pain is usually controlled with simple analgesics; for swelling, sleep with the head elevated and use cold compresses as advised.
Assess donor reserves and target density at 9-12 months.Do not decide on early revision before the final texture/direction has settled (especially for the crown, 12-18 months).
Beard Transplant
A beard transplant is a surgical procedure in whichhair follicles are taken from one area of the body, typically the scalp, and transplanted onto the face to create a fuller, more defined beard.
A beard transplant is typically performed using the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) technique, in which individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area and then transplanted onto the recipient area.
A beard transplant is a permanent solution for hair growth in the transplanted area,as the hair follicles are taken from genetically permanent hair area.
The healing process for a beard transplant typically takes about 7 to 10 days for the initial redness and swelling to subside,and about 3 to 4 months for the transplanted hair to fully grow in.
Some risks associated with a beard transplant include bleeding,infection, scarring, and poor growth of the transplanted hair.
The number of grafts needed for a beard transplant can vary depending on the desired fullness and density of the beard.On average, around 1000-3000 grafts are needed for a full beard transplant.
It typically takes several months for the transplanted hair to grow in and for the final results to be visible. In the first few weeks after the procedure,the transplanted hair will shed and then begin to grow back. The new hair growth will be visible at 3-4 months post-surgery, however, it can take up to 6-9 months to see the final result. It is important to note that the growth rate and density of the new hair may vary from person to person.
Yes, a beard transplant can be used to fix patchy or unevenbeards by transplanting hair follicles into the areas where hair is thin or absent.
After a beard transplant, it is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity,exposure to sunlight, and to avoid smoking.
A beard transplant performed by a skilled surgeonwith the FUE technique should leave minimal scarring that is not visible when the hair is grown out.
Afro Type
Afro hair transplant is suitable for individuals withhair loss caused by genetics (androgenetic alopecia), injury or burn scarring, or other medical conditions that result in hair loss.
Hair transplantation on Afro hair can be more challenging than on other hair types due to the unique characteristics of Afro hairsuch as its curly and kinky texture, and its tendency to be more brittle and fragile. This can make it difficult to accurately place the transplanted hair and ensure that it grows in properly. However, with the proper techniques and experienced surgeons, successful hair transplants can be achieved on Afro hair.
The length of the procedure depends on the number of hair follicles that are being transplanted, but it typically takes between 4-8 hours to complete.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with Afro hair transplants. These may include bleeding, infection, or poor healing of the transplant site. Additionally, there is a risk that the transplanted hair may not grow or may grow at a slower rate than expected.
It usually takes around 3-4 months for the transplanted hair to start growing, and the full results of the transplant may not be visible for up to a year.
It can be difficult to restore hair to a completely bald scalp with an Afro hair transplant because there may not be enough donor hair available. However, in some cases, a combination of hair transplantation and medical treatment may be used to help restore hair growth.
The main difference between Afro hair transplant and other hair transplants is that Afro-textured hair has a unique curl pattern and thickness that requires special techniques and considerations when transplanting.
It is generally recommended to wait at least 3-4 months after the transplant before coloring your hair,as the newly transplanted hair is still fragile and may not take the dye as well as it would otherwise.
There are non-surgical alternatives to Afro hair transplant such as medication, scalp micropigmentation, hair systems and wigs.
The benefits of an Afro hair transplant include improving the appearance of hair and helping to restore self-confidence in individuals with hair loss.
Woman Hair Transplant
A woman hair transplant is a surgical procedure in whichhair is removed from one area of the scalp (usually the back or sides) and transplanted to a bald or thinning area on the scalp.
Women may need hair transplants due to genetic hair loss, hormonal changes, or medical conditions that cause hair loss.
The procedure is similar for both men and women,but the hairline design and the density of the transplanted hair may be different for women.
The procedure can take several hours to a full day, depending on the number of grafts being transplanted.
The transplanted hair typically begins to grow within 2-3 months, but it can take up to 6-9 months for the full results to be visible.
Risks and side effects can include bleeding,infection, scarring, and changes in sensation on the scalp.
Recovery time can vary, but most patients can return to normal activities within 7-10 days.
Yes, women with afro hair can get a hair transplant. However, it is important to note that the transplant method and techniques used may vary depending on the density, texture, and curl pattern of the patient's hair. The FUE method is usually preferred for Afro hair because it is less invasive and can help to avoid scarring. Additionally, the surgeon should be experienced in working with Afro hair and be aware of the unique considerations that come with this type of hair.
Hair transplantation on women can present some unique challenges compared to men. Women's hair tends to be thinner and less dense, which can make it difficult to achieve the same level of coverage. Additionally, women's hair loss is often diffuse, meaning it affects the entire scalp rather than just specific areas, which can make it more difficult to target specific areas for transplantation. However, with the proper techniques and experienced surgeons, successful hair transplants can be achieved for women. Additionally, hair transplantation for women is becoming more popular, so the techniques and the technology are improving to cater to their needs.
The procedure is typically used to regrow hair on the scalp, it may not be suitable for regrowing hair on other parts of the body such as the eyebrows or eyelashes.
Yes, women can also undergo hair transplant. Hair loss is a common problem for women, just like it is for men, and they can solve this problem through hair transplant. In women, hair loss is not as complete baldness as in men, but it is more characterized by thinning hair, receding hairline, thinning hair strands, and hair loss.The hair transplant procedure for women involves transplanting hair follicles taken from the donor area to the area where hair loss is occurring. However, since hair loss in women is different from that in men, careful examination should be done before performing the hair transplant procedure. Based on the results of this examination, it is determined whether the hair transplant procedure is suitable for the woman or not.
In addition, hair transplant in women can be more challenging than in men and the recovery period may be longer. Therefore, it is important for women to talk to their doctors and get detailed information about the procedure before undergoing hair transplant.
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