Hair Transplant for Men: Surgery, Procedure and Restoration

A hair transplant is a surgery that includes hair follicles restoration by moving healthy units from a donor area. Hair transplantation for men is the transfer of genetically resistant hair follicles into areas experiencing thinning or baldness.

Hair restoration is a permanent solution for hair loss, provided it is maintained with proper care. The main techniques used are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation). Costs vary by region, with prices ranging from €6,000–€15,000 in Europe, $8,000–$20,000 in the USA, and $2,000–$7,000 Hair Transplant in Turkey.

What Is a Hair Transplant?

Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure involving taking hair follicles from a donor area—usually the back or sides of the scalp—and implanting them in areas affected by hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss in men, follows distinct patterns that have been systematically classified. These patterns were first mapped out by Hamilton in 1951 and later expanded by Norwood in 1975, providing a standardized scale for assessing hair loss progression.Their work remains the foundation for modern hair restoration techniques. 

The procedure relies on follicular units, which are naturally occurring groups of one to four hairs. These units are rich in keratin, a protein essential for hair strength and structure, as noted in Robbins’ 2012 study on hair biology. 

There are two main transplant methods: FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), which removes a strip of scalp to extract grafts, and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), a technique introduced by Bernstein and Rassman in 2002 that harvests individual follicles to avoid linear scarring. Both methods have their advantages, but the choice depends on factors like hair type, desired density, and personal preference.

Experts should plan hair replacement carefully by identifying usable grafts, storing them, and preparing the receiving site in a strategic manner to yield natural-looking results.

Is hair transplant different or the same in men and women?

Yes, while the surgical techniques—such as FUE, FUT, and DHI—are the same, the approach to a hair transplant for men and a women hair transplant differs significantly due to the unique patterns and causes of hair loss.

Men typically experience male pattern baldness, characterized by receding hairlines and crown thinning. This allows for well-defined donor and recipient areas, making them ideal candidates for hair restoration.

In contrast, women often face diffuse thinning across the entire scalp, making donor area assessment more complex. A women hair transplant requires a more strategic approach to ensure density, natural hairline design, and effective use of available grafts. Additionally, hormonal evaluation is often essential in female cases.

How Does a Hair Transplant Work?

Hair transplants work by relocating healthy hair follicles from a donor area (typically the back and sides of the head) to bald or thinning areas. The hair transplant surgery process involves extraction (via FUE, FUT, or DHI techniques), precise site creation in the recipient area, and meticulous implantation of follicles.

The success of the procedure depends on the careful handling of grafts, proper angulation, and strategic distribution to ensure natural density and long-term viability, according to Hair Transplantation: Basic Overview (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Jiménez et al., 2021).

Understanding how a hair transplant works involves recognizing the natural healing process. Following the procedure, the transplanted hair sheds over two to three months before regrowing naturally. 

Is Hair Transplant a Long-term Solution for Hair Restoration?

Yes, hair transplant is a permanent hair restoration procedure that is a long-term option. Hair follicles to be transplanted into the recipient area are extracted from areas of the scalp. These areas are resistant to balding. These are the sides or the back of the head, to continue to live a lifetime. The procedure is a permanent solution in that it implants hair, yet it fails to stop progressive hair loss in unaddressed scalp areas. 

The longevity of a hair transplant is dependent on a multitude of different variables, such as:

• Genetic predisposition to hair loss
• The skill and experience of the surgeon
• Post-transplant care and scalp health
• Lifestyle choices, including diet, stress management, and hair care routine
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for healing and growth stimulation
• DHT-blocking drugs like finasteride to prevent further hair loss

What Conditions Can Hair Transplant Surgery Treat?

Hair transplant surgery is most commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), a hereditary condition that causes progressive hair thinning in both men and women. Beyond genetic hair loss, hair transplants addresses:

• Receding hairlines and thinning crowns
• Traction alopecia (hair loss from excessive pulling or styling
• Scarring alopecia (hair loss due to scars from injury, burns, or surgery
• Hair loss from autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata
• Hair thinning caused by hormonal imbalances
• Loss of facial hair, including eyebrows, beard, and mustache gaps

Who can be a candidate for a hair transplant?
Good candidates are those who have good donor hair quality, a healthy scalp, and realistic expectations. If there is ongoing baldness, a hair restoration surgeon can provide consultation to decide on the best course of treatment based on the degree of hair loss and medical history.

What Are the Types of Hair Transplant?

• Sapphire FUE, founded by Vera Clinic is known for denser hair implantationdue to its finer and more precise cuts. Sapphire blades are effective in reducing scarring and speeding up healing, making the procedure safer for patients with sensitive scalps, according to Balik et al., (2023). This method is the most advanced version of FUE, using sapphire blades instead of steel for incisions.
• FUE is defined by the extraction of individual follicular units, ensuring a precise and scar-free outcome, according to Pontes et al., 2024. FUE is the most widely performedhair transplant technique due to its minimally invasive nature and natural-looking results. Folicular Unit Extraction is faster for recovery than FUT because it avoids large incisions and stitches.
• FUT is a hair transplant technique that involves removing a strip of scalp,first introduced by Orentreich (1952) as the foundation of modern hair transplants. This hair transplant technique is known for leaving a linear scar, making it less ideal for those who prefer to wear short hairstyles.
• DHI is a technique that uses an implanter pen,refined by Choi et al. (1992), which improves graft survival rates. This technique is the most precise implantation method, as it does not require pre-made incisions.
• Robotic hair transplantation is the most technologically advanced method, utilizing AI-driven precisionfor graft extraction. Robotic FUE is designed to reduce human error,ARTAS leading to more consistent and predictable results. Systems of Robotic Hair Transplant such as , were introduced in 2008, revolutionizing the field with automation, according to Harris et al. (2011).
• Micro FUE is the least invasive FUE technique, using ultra-fine punchesto extract follicles. This hair transplant method is the most precise follicle harvesting method, making it ideal for delicate areas like the hairline, according to Jiménez et al. (2020).

What Is the Cost of Hair Transplant Surgery?

Globally, hair transplant prices range between €1,400 and €18,500, depending on factors like technique, clinic reputation, and country.

In Turkey, a top destination for hair restoration, prices vary from €1,000 to €8,000. However, choosing a certified and reputable clinic is crucial to ensure safety, expertise, and optimal results.

Hair transplant cost at Vera Clinic ranges from € 2,990 – € 5,890 depending on the treatment package that has been selected. This pricing includes advanced techniques, personalized aftercare, and a signature Vera Clinic experience focused on medical excellence and patient satisfaction.

Hair transplants are considered as aesthetic treatments, hence the reason for not being covered by insurance. However, there is still the possibility of considering other financial options that are more affordable.

How Does Hair Transplant Surgery Price Change According to Its Type?

The cost of a hair transplant varies based on the technique used, the number of grafts, and the surgeon’s expertise. 

The most advanced techniques, like robotic FUE or stem cell therapy, the price exceeds up to €30,000. Prices in Turkey remain lower due to reduced operational costs, but quality varies by clinic. Since hair transplants are classified as cosmetic procedures, insurance does not cover them, except in rare cases of reconstructive surgery after burns or trauma.

Factors Affecting Hair Transplant Cost

• Number of Grafts: More grafts = Higher cost. But at Vera Clinic, we don’t price per graft. Instead, we use a Max Grafting System, ensuring no over-grafting or under-grafting—just the exact number of grafts you need.
• Surgeon’s Experience: Top-rated specialists charge more.
• Technology Used: Advanced methods like Robotic FUE and Stem Cell Therapy are costlier.
• Geographical Location: The cost of living and economic differences impact pricing. Clinics in the UK and the US charge higher fees due to operational expenses, while Turkey provides the same quality procedures at up to 70% lower costs.

📌 Why is Turkey More Affordable?

Turkey’s affordability isn’t due to compromised quality but economic factors like lower operational costs and currency exchange rates. This allows world-class clinics like Vera Clinic to offer premium treatments at a fraction of the cost.

Can Insurance Cover Hair Transplants?

• No, insurance does not cover cosmetic hair transplants.
• Exception: If hair loss is due to burns, trauma, or a medical condition, some insurers partially reimburse costs.

Alternative Options:

• Medical Loans & Payment Plans are available at most clinics.
• HSAs & FSAs in the US may cover part of the cost if linked to a medical need.

What Are the Anatomical Regions Where Hair Transplantation Can Be Performed?

Hair transplants are not limited to the scalp—they are applied to facial and body areas, especially for beard, mustache, and eyebrow restoration. These procedures restore hair due to genetic factors, scarring, or aesthetic preferences.

The most commonly treated anatomical regions include:

• Scalp: The most common area, used to treat male and female pattern baldness.
• Eyebrows: Helps restore density lost due to overplucking, trauma, or medical conditions.
• Beard & Mustache: Addresses patchiness or total absence due to genetics, scarring, or hormonal factors.
• Chest: A niche procedure, often used for cosmetic enhancement or gender-affirming cases.

Where Do They Get the Hair for a Hair Transplant?

In hair transplantation, donor hair is removed from areas of your body that have good hair coverage and are genetically resilient to hair loss. The most ideal donor area is behind your scalp and on the sides, or your occipital region of your skull. Hair removed from this region is genetically resilient to DHT (hair loss hormone that causes pattern hair loss) providing long-term hair restoration outcomes.

When your scalp donor hair is too fine, surgeons target other donor areas of your body such as chest, beard, moustache, and eyebrows. Beard hair is denser and coarser, making it suitable for adding volume. However, especially where there is a necessity to enhance its fullness to create a thicker appearance. But its peculiar hair pattern must have to be blended carefully to make it natural-looking.

The table below summarizes the donor options and their advantages:

What Is the Hair Transplant Timeline?

The hair transplant timeline typically spans several months, with key milestones along the way. 
First, your surgeon assesses the health of your donor area and plan a customized treatment. The hair restoration process involves extracting hair grafts and implanting them into thinning or balding areas to restore a natural hairline. 

The hair transplant timeline begins with the procedure, which typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the number of grafts required. During recovery, mild swelling and discomfort are common but gradually subside as healing progresses. In the weeks following the procedure, shedding of the transplanted hair is expected as part of the natural hair growth cycle. New hair begins to emerge within 3 to 6 months, with noticeable results becoming visible between 9 to 12 months.

What Helps for Faster Healing After Hair Transplantation?

Supplements, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and PRP play a key role in speeding up recovery and optimizing hair regrowth. 

Studies from ISHRS confirm that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (OxyCure) enhances graft survival, reduces swelling, and accelerates healing by increasing oxygen supply to tissues (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).

PRP injections stimulate growth factors, aiding tissue repair. PRP enhances healing by 15% and increases hair density, as demonstrated in a 2023 Dermatologic Surgery study.

Supporting your body with Vitamin D, Zinc, Biotin, Omega-3, Iron, Vitamin C, and collagen enhances faster healing and optimal hair regrowth, according to research from Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery by Brown, Spencer A. Ph.D., et al. (2004). This contributes to improved wound healing and better post-transplant recovery.

How to Prepare for a Hair Transplant Surgery

Preparing for hair transplant surgery involves several important steps to ensure the best possible outcome:

Begin by consulting with a qualified specialist who can assess your suitability for the procedure and ask how a hair transplant works. During this consultation, you are to discuss your goals, including whether you want a hairline transplant or more extensive hair restoration. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions. The instructions include avoiding blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and smoking, as these impact healing. 

Your surgeon recommends washing your hair thoroughly before the procedure and arranging comfortable post-surgery transportation. 

Understanding what a hair transplant does and how it differs from other hair replacement options helps you set realistic expectations. While they typically enjoy long-lasting results, they need maintenance depending on factors like age and hair loss progression. Preparing properly for hair replacement surgery ensures that you maximize the benefits of this effective hair replacement solution.

How to Determine the Hair Loss Pattern

Practitioners use the Ludwig scale for women and the Norwood scale for men to assess hair loss patterns. This helps determine hair loss severity and guide treatment. Androgenetic alopecia is linked to genetics and hormones according to Rodney D. Sinclair’s study.

Knowing hair loss patterns helps plan transplants, estimate grafts, and control costs. For example, hairline restoration needs fewer grafts than crown restoration. Having it planned sets realistic expectations for long-term results.

Do I have to Shave My Head Before the Hair Transplant Surgery?

No, you do not need to shave your entire head before hair transplant surgery. For most people, the surgeon only needs to shave the areas where follicles will be taken out and implanted. It makes it simpler for your surgeon to have easy unobstructed access without noticeable changes to your hair. 

Shaving the donor area provides better access to healthy follicles for transplantation. However, leaving the rest of your hair unshaved maintains your natural styling. If your outward appearance is your primary concern, your surgeon discusses ways to ensure a seamless look and smooth recovery.

How Is the Hair Transplant Surgery Process?

The surgery process for hair transplant begins with a consultation, where an expert assesses your baldness and advises the most suitable procedure, either FUE or FUT. Vera Clinic insists on all patients undergoing pre-operative medical tests to ensure that they are in fine health for undergoing the operation and to prevent any chance of infection or virus transmission.

Before the procedure, pre-operative guidance is provided to patients, including avoiding smoking, alcohol, and blood thinners, which are likely to disrupt healing.

During surgery, the area of the transplant is marked by the surgeon and local anesthesia is applied to provide a painless experience. The follicles are then extracted from the donor area, in this case usually from the back of the neck.These follicles are prepared and subsequently implanted in a normal hair configuration on the receiving region.

The procedure usually lasts 6 to 8 hours, during which patients at Vera Clinic watch TV, relax, or enjoy herbal teas like chamomile and green tea, which are known for their calming and healing properties.

Once complete, the scalp is sterilized and bandaged and post-operative instructions by the surgeon given to assist the patient in recovery as well as optimum growth. The recovery process entails minor swelling, scabbing, and shedding before new hair growth, with visible results in 6 to 12 months.

Is Hair Grafting an Important Step in Hair Transplant Surgery?

Yes, hair grafting is a crucial step in hair transplant surgery as it directly impacts the procedure’s success. This process involves extracting and implanting grafts to restore natural hair growth. When done with precision, grafting ensures proper density, seamless coverage, and long-lasting results. Skilled surgeons strategically place each graft to create a realistic, undetectable hairline. With the right technique, the transplanted hair grows naturally and permanently, blending perfectly with existing hair.

Do Hair Transplant Clinics Still Use Hair Plugs?

No, most clinics now use hair grafts instead of hair plugs. 

Hair restoration has changed a lot over the years. In the past, hair plugs were used, which involved transplanting big clusters of hair follicles. This often looked unnatural and took longer to heal. Now, hair grafts are used instead. They involve transplanting smaller groups of 1-4 follicles, which creates a more natural look and heals faster.

What Are the Side Effects of Hair Transplant Surgery?

Hair restoration is generally safe but comes with potential side effects. Major side effects of hair transplant surgery are temporary swelling, redness, itching, and mild pain, which subside with proper care. Infections, though rare, occur due to poor hygiene, while shock loss and uneven hair growth are part of the natural healing process. Serious complications like excessive bleeding, cysts, or scarring autoimmune reactions like Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) are uncommon. 

Swelling (edema) from fluid accumulation is managed with cold compresses and anti-inflammatory medication. Redness and itching occur as the scalp heals and should be controlled with prescribed ointments. Shock loss, a temporary shedding phase, resolves within 3-6 months. 

Infections, linked to poor aftercare, are preventable with proper hygiene and antibiotics. Folliculitis, or inflamed follicles, responds well to warm compresses and topical antibiotics. Numbness from minor nerve damage fades within months. FUT patients develop mild scarring, while uneven growth is due to natural hair cycles. 

Rare risks, including Lichen Planopilaris (LPP), a scarring autoimmune reaction, and minor skin texture changes, are documented in Complications with Hair Transplantation (Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, Nadimi et al., 2020). Graft survival, typically 85-95%, depends on circulation, smoking, and post-op care. Choosing an experienced clinic and following aftercare reduces risks and improves results.

What Aftercare Tips Should Be Done After a Hair Transplant Surgery?

Some precautions and tips must be followed as hair transplant aftercare to achieve recovery and optimal hair growth after hair transplantation. 

For the first 72 hours, avoiding touching or scratching of the transplanted area is a must to prevent graft displacement. Sleep with your head at an angle of 45 degrees to reduce puffiness, and use a doctor’s pillow to support your head. Wash your scalp gently with a physician-recommended shampoo after 48 hours using lukewarm water and light dabbing motions. Avoid direct sunlight, excessive sweating, and alcohol consumption, as these slow down healing..

From day 4 to week 2, scabs form; do not pick them—allow them to shed naturally to avoid trauma to grafts. Resume light exercise after two weeks and avoid heavy exercises for one month to prevent high blood pressure at the recipient site. 

Long-term care entails scalp hydration, mild shampooing, and avoidance of chemical treatments for a minimum of six months. Red light treatment and hyperbaric oxygen therapy are known to enhance graft survival to 20%. Adhering to these post-operative steps guarantees improved graft maintenance and a worthwhile hair restoration result.

What Is the Success Rate for Hair Transplants?

A hair transplant success rate varies between 85% and 95%, depending on factors such as surgical technique, surgeon expertise, aftercare compliance, and patient health. 

Studies on ISHRS and Vera Clinic Hair Transplant Statistics indicate that FUE has a graft survival rate of 90-95%, while FUT ranges from 85-90%. The transplanted hairs begin shedding within the first 2-4 weeks, followed by regrowth starting at 3-4 months, with full results visible in 12-18 months.

Key factors affecting success include:

• Surgeon expertise: A skilled surgeon ensures precise graft placement, improving survival rates.
• Aftercare protocols: Following post-op guidelines, such as avoiding trauma to grafts and maintaining scalp hygiene, enhances outcomes.
• Patient health: Conditions like diabetes and poor circulation impact healing and growth.
• Advanced treatments: Oxycure therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy have shown to increase graft survival by up to 20%.

Success Rate by Technique

Scientific advancements like oxycure therapy are improving hair transplant outcomes, pushing survival rates beyond traditional methods. 

Is there a Possibility of Hair Transplant Failure?

Yes, but only when performed by inexperienced hands and without post-operative care.

Hair transplant success rates are typically 85-98% depending on the technique, experience of the surgeon, and health of the patient. Failure occurs due to various reasons such as poor graft survival, improper handling, underlying disease, or post-operative complications. Signs of a failed hair transplant are excessive shedding after 3-4 months, not growing hair after 6-8 months, visible scarring, uneven density, and persistent redness or infection.

How Do Hair Implants Differ from Hair Transplants?

Hair implants and hair transplants refer to the same surgical procedure. Before the discovery of hair transplant, synthetic hair was used to implement. However, this procedure were called “synthetic hair transplant”. Nowadays, synthetic hair is no longer in use and both terms are used for “real hair” transplantation. 

Which Countries Are Best for Hair Transplant Surgery?

Turkey is the #1 destination for hair transplants, with over 500,000 medical tourists visiting annually. The combination of affordable prices, advanced technology, and experienced surgeons makes it a preferred choice. According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), Turkey performs a significant portion of the world’s hair transplants, with success rates exceeding 95%.

Vera Clinic: Pioneering Excellence in TurkeyAt Vera Clinic, we don’t just perform hair transplants, we innovate. We specialize in high-tech hair restoration. Our procedures are led by Dr. Kerim Benan Ünsal and a team of experts, using the latest techniques:

• Sapphire FUE: found by Vera Clinic, a refined version of FUE using ultra-sharp sapphire blades, ensuring faster healing, denser graft placement, and minimal scarring.
• Oxycure Therapy: exclusive to Vera Clinic, enhances graft survival by up to 30% through increased oxygenation.
• FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) for precision and natural results.
• Advanced Diagnostic Technologies – We use FotoFinder Trichoscale AI for precise donor area analysis and the UHL Scanner for microscopic graft evaluation, ensuring optimal placement and natural results.
• 98% patient satisfaction rate, with personalized aftercare and monitoring.

Other Top Countries for Hair Transplants

While Turkey remains unmatched, these countries offer high-quality hair transplant services:

• Spain – Known for advanced robotic hair transplant techniques.
• South Korea – Cutting-edge technology with a focus on aesthetics.
• India – Cost-effective options with skilled professionals.
• Poland – High medical standards with competitive pricing.

Turkey continues to lead the industry, providing world-class results at affordable prices.

Why Get a Hair Transplant in Turkey?

Turkey is a leading destination for hair transplants due to its cost-efficiency, high success rates, and exceptional results. Turkey offers world-class procedures at a fraction of the cost compared to Europe and the U.S., without compromising on quality. This is largely due to advanced technology, highly skilled surgeons, and competitive pricing. Many clinics in Turkey boast high success rates and natural-looking results, thanks to experienced specialists. For those seeking the best hair transplant doctor in Turkey, Vera Clinic stands out as one of the top choices. Renowned for its expert team and cutting-edge techniques, Vera Clinic consistently delivers outstanding, natural-looking hair restoration results, making it a trusted name in the industry.

Which Country Is Better for Hair Transplant: Turkey or Mexico?

Both Turkey and Mexico are popular options for hair transplantation, but Turkish hair transplant is more popular due to its relatively more affordable cost, stringent medical laws, and proficient surgeons. The country boasts an advanced medical tourism sector with excellently equipped centers that follow global health standards. Mexico also has good procedures, especially in bigger cities, but costs are expensive, and rules in clinics are not as consistent.

Is Getting Hair Transplants in Turkey Cheaper?

Yes, getting a hair transplant in Turkey is significantly cheaper compared to other countries, including Mexico. This is due to lower operational costs and currency exchange advantages, not lower quality.

When Was the First Hair Transplant Innovated?

The history of hair transplant starts with the first successful hair transplant was performed in 1939 by Dr. Shoji Okuda, a Japanese dermatologist. He developed a method called the punch graft technique, which involved transplanting small sections of hair-bearing skin to bald areas. 

However, his work remained largely unknown due to World War II. In the 1950s, Dr. Norman Orentreich in New York revolutionized hair restoration by proving the concept of donor dominance—showing that transplanted hair from the back of the scalp could retain its growth properties even after being relocated. This laid the foundation for modern hair transplantation.

What Concepts to Know About Hair Transplantation Surgery?

What Are the Alternatives of Hair Transplantation?

Alternatives of hair transplant are using topical solutions, non-invasive therapy methods, or wigs. 

For those seeking non-surgical hair transplant alternatives to hair loss, several effective alternatives to hair transplants offer unique benefits and considerations.

1. Medications (Minoxidil & Finasteride): Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical solution applied directly to the scalp, while Finasteride (Propecia) is an oral medication that blocks DHT, a hormone responsible for hair loss. These treatments help slow hair loss and promote regrowth but require consistent use. However, they sometimes causes side effects, including scalp irritation (Minoxidil) and hormonal imbalances such as decreased libido or mood changes (Finasteride).
2. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of blood, extracting the platelets, and injecting them into the scalp. These platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair follicles, improving thickness and regrowth.
3. Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy – LLLT): Laser therapy uses red light to stimulate hair follicles, improve circulation, and promote hair growth. Devices like laser combs, helmets, or caps are used.
4. Hairpieces and Wigs: Hairpieces, wigs, and hair systems offer a quick and effective way to cover baldness. They come in various styles, materials, and colors to match your natural hair.
5. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP): SMP is a cosmetic procedure that tattoos tiny pigment dots onto the scalp to mimic the look of hair follicles. It’s ideal for those with thinning hair or bald spots.
6. Stem Cell Therapy (Harnessing regenerative potential): Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells into the scalp to stimulate dormant hair follicles, promote regeneration, and improve hair thickness. These cells have the potential to repair damaged follicles and enhance hair growth naturally.