Hair Transplant (FAQ)

1. What is hair transplantation and who is it suitable for?

Hair transplantation is the process of transplanting hair follicles taken from the nape of the neck or the sides of the head of individuals with hair loss.
It is commonly applied for men with male pattern baldness, but it can also be preferred for women with thinning hair or eyebrow loss.
Since the procedure is performed using one’s own hair follicles, there is no risk of rejection by the body.
Since the hair in the donor area is genetically resistant to hair loss, the transplanted hair is permanent.
The ideal age range for hair transplantation is generally 20 years and older; early transplantation in individuals with active hair loss may lead to undesirable results.

2. Which stages does the hair transplantation process consist of?

Hair follicles are taken from the donor area (usually from the nape of the neck).
Canals are opened in the recipient area and a suitable environment is prepared for the hair follicles to be transplanted.
The hair follicles are placed one by one in the opened channels.
After the operation, the healing process is followed and special care is applied.
The patient is informed about the process before and after the operation and necessary controls are performed.

3. What should be taken into consideration for a hair follicle (graft) to attach successfully?

The procedure should be performed in a sterile environment and the risk of infection should be minimized.
Grafts should not be damaged during removal and transplantation.
The area should not be touched and should be protected for the first 5 days after transplantation.
The patient should be guided appropriately to prevent blood accumulation (hematoma).
Heavy exercises and intense physical activities should be avoided for the first 1 month.

4. Which techniques are used for hair transplantation?

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): Hair follicles are extracted one by one and transplanted, providing fast recovery.
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): The scalp is removed as a strip and more grafts are transplanted.
DHI (Direct Hair Transplantation): It is performed with the pen technique and offers a more natural appearance.
Robotic Hair Transplantation: Hair transplantation is performed with artificial intelligence supported systems.
Beard and Eyebrow Transplantation: Similar to hair transplantation techniques, but requires finer detail**.

5. Who is not suitable for hair transplantation?

Individuals with serious chronic diseases (heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, etc.).
Young patients with ongoing active hair loss (an unbalanced appearance may occur when transplanted at an early age).
Individuals who do not have enough healthy hair follicles in the donor area.
Patients who are not suitable for hair transplantation due to skin diseases or infections.
Individuals who use blood thinners and are not suitable for the operation.

6. What is the healing process after hair transplantation?

The transplanted area should not be touched for the first 5 days.
During the first week, swelling and crusting is normal and can be removed with regular washing.
Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided for the first 2 weeks.
Avoid heavy exercise and intense sunlight for the first 1 month.
The full healing process takes about 6-12 months; new hair growth starts in the 3rd month.

7. What are the differences between FUE and FUT hair transplantation methods?

The FUE method transplants by taking hair follicles one by one, while FUT is applied by taking strips from the scalp.
While the FUE method leaves less scarring, the FUT method may leave scars on the scalp.
While the FUE method offers a more natural look, the FUT method allows for more grafts to be transplanted.
The FUE method provides faster recovery, while the recovery process is slightly longer with the FUT method.
The FUT method is generally preferred in patients with severe hair loss.

8. Does hair loss occur after hair transplantation?

Yes, temporary hair loss (shock hair loss) may occur after hair transplantation.
Shock hair loss usually occurs within 1-2 months and is part of a normal healing process.
New hair usually starts to grow from the 3rd month and full results are obtained within 6-12 months.
Care products and medications used after hair transplantation can improve the quality of the hair.
Regular medical check-ups are important to monitor the health of the transplanted hair.

9. How many hours does hair transplantation take and how many grafts can be transplanted?

Hair transplantation usually takes 6-8 hours, but can take up to 10 hours depending on the scope.
Usually 3000 to 5000 grafts can be transplanted in one session.
A second session can be planned for patients who need more grafts.
Session duration may vary depending on the technique used and the patient’s hair structure.
In the DHI method, fewer grafts can be transplanted in a single session, but a more natural appearance is achieved.

10. Can women have hair transplantation?

Yes, women can also have a hair transplant.
Women can undergo hairline correction, filling sparse areas or eyebrow transplantation.
Since the hair loss pattern is different in women, the right patient selection should be made.
FUE method is more preferred for women because it leaves no scars.
Hormonal and medical evaluation should be performed for female patients before hair transplantation.

11. Which activities should be avoided after hair transplantation?

The hair transplanted area should not be touched for the first 5 days.
Avoid activities such as heavy exercise, swimming and sauna for the first 10 days.
It is necessary to protect the head from direct sunlight for the first 2 weeks.
Accessories that compress the head such as hats or berets should be avoided during the first month.
Alcohol and smoking should be stopped for at least 2 weeks and the healing process should be supported.

12. What is shock loss after hair transplantation and how to prevent it?

Shock shedding is the temporary loss of transplanted hair and is a normal process.
This loss usually occurs within 1-2 months and new hair starts to grow from the 3rd month.
Biotin supplementation, PRP treatment and doctor-recommended lotions can reduce hair loss.
After hair transplantation, special care shampoos and serums recommended by the doctor should be used.
A balanced diet and regular sleep support healthy hair growth.

13. How should the patient be prepared before hair transplantation?

Before the operation, blood thinners (aspirin, etc.) should be stopped under the supervision of a doctor.
Smoking and alcohol consumption should be stopped at least 1 week in advance.
Hair should be washed on the day of the operation, but products such as gel and spray should not be used.
If the patient has chronic diseases, his/her doctor should be informed.
Adequate sleep should be taken to reduce stress and anxiety before the operation.

14. In which age range is hair transplantation more successful?

The ideal age range for hair transplantation is generally between 25-45 years.
In patients under 20 years of age, transplantation is not recommended as active hair loss continues.
In patients over 50 years of age, the hair density in the donor area may have decreased, so careful planning is required.
Hair transplantation in younger patients may provide longer-term results.
Hair transplantation is more successful if it is performed in a period when hair loss is fully established.

15. What are the differences between FUE and DHI techniques?

In the FUE method, hair follicles are taken one by one and channels are opened before transplantation.
In the DHI method, hair follicles are directly transplanted with a special pen, so no channeling is required.
While the FUE method can be applied in larger areas, the DHI method is more suitable for thickening procedures.
Since the DHI method is less traumatic, the healing process may be faster.
The FUE method usually allows more grafts to be transplanted.

16. How long does it take for the hair to grow completely after hair transplantation?

During the first 2 weeks, there is a scabbing process and the scabs begin to fall off.
The shock shedding process can take place within 1-2 months.
From the 3rd month, new hair starts to grow, but it may take 6-12 months to get full results.
By the 6th month, most of the hair has grown, but the thickening process continues.
At the end of 1 year, the hair has a natural and dense appearance.

17. Why is PRP treatment recommended after hair transplantation?

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) strengthens hair follicles with growth factors obtained from the patient’s own blood.
It enables the transplanted hair to grow faster and accelerate the healing process.
Increases blood circulation, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles.
It supports the transplanted hair to grow stronger by reducing the shock shedding process.
PRP can be applied periodically in the first 3 months after hair transplantation.

18. Is hair transplantation different for women than men?

Since the hair loss pattern is different in women, hair transplantation planning is done differently.
In women, the hair taken from the donor area is usually transplanted without shaving.
The FUE method is more preferred for women because it leaves no scars.
For female patients, hormonal evaluation should be performed before transplantation.
Hair transplantation in women is usually applied to thinning areas, not completely bald areas.

19. What should be considered for a natural look after hair transplantation?

The hairline should be determined in accordance with the facial contours.
Hair should be transplanted at natural angles; vertical transplants create an unnatural appearance.
The distribution of the grafts should be homogeneous, not excessively dense or sparse.
The direction of the hair follicles should be adjusted in accordance with the natural hair growth direction.
For a natural look, the accuracy of the design is as important as the amount of hair transplanted.

20. What are the consequences of incorrect applications after hair transplantation?

Wrong hairline design can cause an unnatural appearance.
Wrong transplant angle may cause hair to grow steeply or cannot be combed.
Procedures performed in non-sterile environment may cause infection and graft loss.
Incorrect donor area management may lead to hair loss and scarring in the nape area.
As a result of poor quality hair transplantation, patients may need a second correction operation.

21. How should the first wash after hair transplantation be done?

The first wash is usually done on the 3rd or 4th day of the operation.
The shampoo used during washing should be a special medical product recommended by the doctor.
The washing process should be carried out with gentle movements, without applying pressure on the transplanted area.
When drying the hair, towels should not be used, a low-speed hair dryer should be preferred.
Regular washing should be done to remove crusts, but should not be intervened with nails or harsh movements.

22. What are the most common mistakes after hair transplantation?

Touching or scratching the transplanted area in the first days.
Exposure to intense sunlight and not using sunscreen.
Consuming alcohol and smoking in the first weeks delays recovery.
Heavy sports and excessive sweating can negatively affect the attachment of hair follicles.
Not using the recommended medication and care products may negatively affect the healing process.

23. When do scabs fall off after hair transplantation?

Crusting is a natural healing process in the transplanted area and usually begins to fall off within 10-15 days.
Regular and gentle washing ensures that the scabs fall off over time.
No fingernails or rough massage should be used to remove the scabs early.
It may take about 2 weeks for the crusts to clear completely.
If the crusts still do not disappear after the 3rd week, a doctor should be consulted.

24. What should be the sleeping position after hair transplantation?

In the first week, a sleeping position that does not touch the transplanted area should be preferred.
Supporting the head with a high pillow helps to reduce edema formation.
Lying on your side or face down may reduce the success of the transplantation by putting pressure on the hair follicles.
During the first 3-5 days, you should sleep on your back and in a slightly upright position if possible.
Hard surfaces that will touch the area during sleep should be avoided.

25. How to reduce edema after hair transplantation?

Drinking plenty of water can help reduce edema formation.
Keeping the head elevated and sleeping on the back prevents swelling in the facial area.
Avoiding salty and processed foods helps reduce edema.
Anti-inflammatory medicines recommended by the doctor can control edema.
It is important to maintain the body’s balance by avoiding heavy physical activities in the first week.

26. Which foods should be consumed after hair transplantation?

Protein-rich foods (eggs, fish, chicken) support hair growth.
Foods containing biotin and zinc (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts) help strengthen hair follicles.
Green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli) are rich in iron and increase blood circulation.
Drinking plenty of water speeds up the healing process by maintaining body balance.
Avoiding sugary and processed foods helps maintain hair health.

27. Why is smoking and alcohol consumption not recommended after hair transplantation?

Smoking may impair blood circulation and prevent hair follicles from receiving oxygen.
Alcohol can delay recovery after hair transplantation by increasing water loss in the body.
Smoking and alcohol consumption during the first 2 weeks may decrease the rate of graft attachment.
Smoking can cause inflammation in the hair follicles and negatively affect hair growth.
Alcohol can impair blood clotting, increasing the risk of complications during the healing process.

28. Does hair loss continue after hair transplantation?

Yes, the transplanted hair may temporarily fall out in a process called shock loss.
Shock shedding occurs within 1-2 months, but the hair starts to grow again from the 3rd month.
While the transplanted area is protected, other hairs that are genetically prone to hair loss may fall out over time.
The transplanted hair is permanent, but the overall hair structure of the person may change over time.
PRP and vitamin supplements may be recommended to reduce hair loss.

29. Is eyebrow and beard transplantation different from hair transplantation?

Eyebrow transplantation requires a more subtle and detailed procedure than hair transplantation.
Angles are very important during eyebrow transplantation, otherwise unnatural results may be obtained.
For beard transplantation, hairs taken from the hair or beard area are usually used.
Since the hair follicles grow after eyebrow transplantation, regular trimming is required.
The recovery period after beard transplantation may be shorter compared to hair transplantation.

30. What are the medications that should be avoided after hair transplantation?

Blood thinners (aspirin etc.) should be used with caution before and after the operation.
Drugs containing cortisone may adversely affect the healing process.
Supplements containing steroids may adversely affect the success of hair transplantation.
DHT blockers (finasteride etc.) should be used under the supervision of a doctor to prevent hair loss.
No medication or supplements should be used without a doctor’s recommendation.

31. What are the benefits of PRP treatment after hair transplantation?

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) strengthens the hair follicles with growth factors taken from the patient’s own blood.
It enables the transplanted hair follicles to grow faster and accelerate the healing process.
By increasing blood circulation, it supports more oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles.
It supports the growth of healthier transplanted hair by reducing the shock shedding process.
PRP can be applied periodically in the first 3 months after hair transplantation.

32. How should scabs be cleaned after hair transplantation?

During the first week, washing should be done with gentle movements and no pressure should be applied to the transplantation area.
The washing process should be supported by using special shampoos recommended by the doctor.
Scabs should not be scraped off with a fingernail or a hard object; this may damage the hair follicles.
The scabs usually fall off spontaneously within 10-15 days.
If the scabs have not disappeared after the 3rd week, a doctor should be consulted.

33. When is it safe to cut hair after hair transplantation?

It is not recommended to use a razor or razor blade for the first 3 months.
Scissorless haircuts can be done after the first 1st month.
Care should be taken for 6 months until the hair in the transplanted area is fully established.
The hair in the donor area can be cut with scissors after the first 1 month.
It is recommended to wait at least 6 months for a full shave or short cut.

34. What should be considered in the first 1 month after hair transplantation?

No pressure should be applied to the transplanted area and the area should be protected.
Hats should be used when going out in the sun, but tight and head-compressing models should be avoided.
Heavy physical activities and exercises that cause excessive sweating should be avoided.
Hair washing should be done gently as recommended by the doctor.
Smoking and alcohol consumption should be stopped for at least 1 month to support the healing process.

35. What is the hair growth process after hair transplantation?

Crusting and redness are observed for the first 2 weeks.
Shock hair loss may occur within 1-2 months, this is a normal process.
From the 3rd month, new hair starts to grow, but it may be weak and thin.
By the 6th month, most of the hair has grown and starts to thicken.
Full results are usually obtained at the end of 12 months.

36. Can hair transplantation fail? What are the reasons for failure?

Transplantation with the wrong technique may cause hair follicles to fail.
Transplants performed in a non-sterile environment carry the risk of infection and may fail.
Depending on the genetic structure of the patient, hair follicles may not be compatible in some cases.
If the transplanted hair is transplanted at wrong angles, the natural appearance may deteriorate.
If the patient does not follow the doctor’s recommendations, it may be difficult for the transplanted hair to grow healthy.

37. What kind of care should be applied in the first 6 months after hair transplantation?

During the first 2 weeks, contact that will strain the hair follicles should be avoided.
Chemical products that will irritate the scalp should not be used for the first 3 months.
Attention should be paid to nutrition, vitamins that support hair growth should be taken.
Smoking and alcohol consumption should be limited and blood circulation should be supported.
For 6 months, regular PRP or hair strengthening treatments can be applied.

38. Which medications should be used after hair transplantation?

Antibiotics recommended by the doctor can be used to reduce the risk of infection.
PRP treatment and biotin supplements can accelerate hair growth.
Medications such as finasteride or minoxidil may be recommended to protect existing hair.
Anti-inflammatory drugs recommended by the doctor can be used to reduce edema.
Blood thinners should be taken under doctor’s supervision after the operation.

39. When can I return to social life after hair transplantation?

Patients should generally rest for the first 3-5 days and are advised to stay at home.
During the first week, the hair transplantation area should be protected while being outdoors.
After the 1st week, you can return to desk work, but you should wait at least 2 weeks for heavy physical work.
After 2 weeks, social life can be fully resumed, but heavy sports activities should be avoided.
It is recommended to wait 1 month for full freedom of movement.

40. Why can hair grow curly after hair transplantation?

Hair after hair transplantation may have a different structure during the initial growth process.
The position of the follicles during transplantation may cause the hair to temporarily grow curly.
New hair growth usually regains its normal texture within 6-12 months.
In some patients, wavy or curly hair may be permanent.
PRP treatment and appropriate care methods can help the hair regain its natural form.

41. Why can the transplanted hair grow later after hair transplantation?

The healing process of the hair follicles may vary from person to person, some patients may take longer to grow hair.
A shock hair loss process causes the transplanted hair to fall out and it may take time for new hair to grow.
Poor blood circulation or lack of nutrients can delay the hair growth process.
Factors such as smoking, alcohol and stress can negatively affect hair growth.
Supportive treatments such as PRP after hair transplantation can accelerate the process.

42. Which shampoos should be used after hair transplantation?

Medical shampoos that do not contain sulfate, paraben and alcohol should be preferred.
Special care shampoos recommended by the doctor should be used.
Formulas that are pH balanced and do not irritate the scalp should be selected.
Shampoos containing biotin, keratin and vitamins can support hair health.
Shampoos should be applied with light massage movements in the first weeks and strong rubbing movements should be avoided.

43. In how many sessions can the desired result be achieved after hair transplantation?

Usually 3000-5000 grafts can be transplanted in a single session, but additional sessions may be required for patients with severe hair loss.
A second session can be scheduled to increase hair density and achieve a more dense appearance.
It may take 6-12 months for the transplanted hair to fully settle and the results to become evident.
Some patients may require minor touch-up procedures after 1 year.
The transplantation process should be planned depending on the patient’s hair loss level and donor area capacity.

44. What are the psychological effects after hair transplantation?

Patients may experience a significant increase in self-confidence after hair transplantation.
In the first months, anxiety or disappointment may be felt due to the shock hair loss process.
Patience is required as the full results appear over time.
Some patients may feel more comfortable in social environments due to their appearance after hair transplantation.
Realistic expectations make the psychological process after hair transplantation more comfortable.

45. Is it safe to dye hair after hair transplantation?

Hair coloring is not recommended for the first 6 months because chemicals can damage hair follicles.
After 6 months, natural, ammonia-free hair dyes can be used.
Coloring procedures performed before the scalp is fully healed may cause irritation and hair loss.
Frequent hair coloring should be avoided during the first year after hair transplantation.
Herbal hair dyes with low chemical content should be preferred.

46. Is it harmful to be exposed to sunlight after hair transplantation?

Direct sunlight exposure should be avoided for the first 1 month.
Intense sunlight may irritate the transplanted area and delay the healing process.
The use of hats is recommended, but models that squeeze or sweat the head should not be preferred.
Sunscreen creams can be used with formulas suitable for the scalp.
Patients who have hair transplantation especially in summer should be extra careful.

47. Is itching after hair transplantation normal and how to prevent it?

Yes, itching after a hair transplant is common and a natural part of the healing process.
As the skin regenerates during the scabbing process, itching sensation may occur.
Sterile solutions or moisturizers recommended by the doctor can reduce itching.
It should never be scratched with a fingernail, this may damage the transplanted hair follicles.
Itching usually goes away on its own within 2-3 weeks.

48. When can I start doing sports after hair transplantation?

Heavy exercises and sports should be avoided for the first 2 weeks.
Light walks can be started after 1 week.
Wait at least 1 month for weight lifting, swimming and high-intensity exercises.
Care should be taken as excessive sweating may increase the risk of infection in the transplanted area.
Depending on the complete healing process, you can return to all sports activities after 2-3 months.

49. Which season is more advantageous after hair transplantation?

It may be more advantageous to have a hair transplant in the fall and winter months.
Extra precautions should be taken as there is a risk of exposure to intense sunlight in the summer months.
Cooler weather can make the healing process more comfortable.
Since the use of hats is common during the winter months, the transplanted area can be protected.
However, hair transplantation can be performed in any period, regardless of the season, with appropriate care and protection measures.

50. Which additional treatments are recommended for best results after hair transplantation?

PRP treatment can speed up the healing process after hair transplantation and strengthen the hair follicles.
Biotin and zinc supplements can help hair grow faster and healthier.
Topical treatments such as minoxidil can help protect existing hair.
Hair mesotherapy can support hair growth in the transplanted area by increasing the nutrition of the scalp.
Balanced nutrition, stress management and regular sleep are among the important factors that increase success after hair transplantation.