What Is A Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure used to treat hair loss by transplanting hair follicles from a donor site (usually the back of the head) to areas that are bald or thinning. Here’s how a typical hair transplant works:
1. Consultation and Planning
- Before the transplant, the surgeon conducts a detailed consultation with the patient to analyze the hair loss pattern, discuss goals, and determine how many hair follicles (grafts) are needed to achieve a natural-looking result.
2. Preparation
3. Extraction of Hair Follicles
4. Preparing the Recipient Area
5. Implantation of Hair Follicles
6. Post-Operative Care and Healing
7. Hair Growth After Transplantation
What Is Hair Transplantation? The Key to a Natural and Permanent Look
Hair transplantation is a micro-surgical procedure performed to restore hair follicles lost due to shedding or thinning. Thanks to modern techniques, both men and women can achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. At Elix Istanbul, every patient receives a personalized plan designed to create a hairline that complements their facial features for a natural and aesthetic appearance.
Who Is a Candidate for Hair Transplantation?
Men experiencing permanent hair loss
Women with genetic hair thinning
Individuals with regional hair loss due to scars or burns
Those with sparse beard, eyebrow, or mustache areas
At Elix Istanbul, a comprehensive analysis of the donor area and hair loss pattern is conducted to determine the most suitable technique for each individual.
Hair Transplantation Techniques
1. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)
Using a micromotor device, follicles are extracted from the donor area and implanted one by one into the bald zones. This technique leaves no visible scars and ensures a fast recovery while achieving a natural hair density.
2. Sapphire FUE
An advanced version of the classic FUE method, Sapphire FUE uses sapphire-tipped blades for channel opening. This minimizes tissue damage, speeds up recovery, and allows for denser follicle placement.
3. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)
In DHI, hair follicles are directly implanted into the target area using special implanter pens, eliminating the need for channel incisions. This results in minimal bleeding and faster healing — ideal for patients who wish to preserve their existing hair.
4. Long-Hair DHI
Designed for patients who prefer not to shave their hair before surgery. Existing long hair is preserved, and new follicles are integrated seamlessly for a natural appearance.
5. Shaven-Free Hair Transplantation
A method developed for women and for individuals who wish to undergo the procedure without disrupting their social life. Only minimal shaving is applied in donor and recipient areas.
6. Beard, Eyebrow & Afro Hair Transplantation
For beard and eyebrow transplants, follicles are implanted following the natural growth direction of the hair. In Afro hair types, curl pattern and follicle structure are carefully analyzed for the best outcome.
How Does the Hair Transplant Process Work?
Consultation & Planning – Hair loss type and graft number are analyzed and planned.
Preparation & Anesthesia – Donor area is numbed with local anesthesia.
Graft Extraction – Hair follicles are collected using FUE or DHI technique.
Channel Opening & Implantation – Follicles are placed at natural angles and directions.
Recovery Process – Minor crusting disappears within 10–12 days.
New Hair Growth – Noticeable growth begins around the 3rd month; full results appear within 9–12 months.
The Elix Istanbul Difference
Elix Istanbul is more than a hair transplant clinic — it is a center for restoring natural beauty and confidence.
Experienced medical professionals
Personalized planning and design
Advanced technology in a sterile environment
Continuous postoperative care and follow-up
At Elix Istanbul, the goal is not just to restore hair, but to restore self-confidence. Each patient’s hairline is designed to harmonize perfectly with their facial contours.
Postoperative Care
The first two weeks after the procedure are critical for graft retention.
The first wash is performed at the clinic.
Avoid heavy exercise, sauna, and swimming for 10 days.
Protect the scalp from direct sunlight and use a soft pillow.
Temporary “shock shedding” may occur within 3 months — a normal phase before new growth.
The Elix Istanbul team provides continuous support throughout the recovery period.
Genuine Transformations, Proven Outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hair Transplants
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure in which hair follicles are taken from a donor area (usually the back of the head) and implanted into bald or thinning areas of the scalp.
Ideal candidates are usually individuals with stable hair loss patterns, sufficient hair in the donor area, and good overall health. A consultation with a specialist is required to confirm eligibility.
The two most common techniques are FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), where individual hair follicles are extracted, and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), where a strip of skin is removed and follicles are isolated. Another method is DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), where the follicles are implanted directly.
The hair transplant is performed under local anesthesia, so the procedure is pain-free. Some patients may experience mild discomfort after the procedure, which they can usually manage with pain medication.
A hair transplant can take 4 to 8 hours, depending on the number of grafts transplanted. In some cases, the procedure may be performed over two days.
The transplanted hairs typically fall out within the first few weeks after the surgery (shock loss). New hair growth begins around 3 to 4 months after the procedure, with the final results visible around 9 to 12 months.
The transplanted hair is usually permanent because it is taken from a stable donor area resistant to hair loss. As a result, the hair will last a lifetime in most cases.
Yes, modern hair transplant techniques allow for natural-looking results, as the surgeon carefully places the hair in the correct direction, depth, and angle to match natural hair growth.
With the FUE technique, tiny dot-like scars may form in the donor area, but they are typically hidden by surrounding hair. With FUT, a fine linear scar is left in the donor area, which the surrounding hair can also conceal.
Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within 2 to 5 days. However, to avoid complications, it is important to follow the doctor’s post-operative care instructions.
It is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activities for at least two weeks after the procedure to minimize the risk of swelling and bleeding.
The transplanted hair is usually permanent, but non-transplanted hair may continue to fall out. In some cases, additional treatments or a second transplant may be necessary.
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, swelling, scarring, or uneven hair growth. However, these risks are rare and can be minimized with proper post-operative care.
The cost varies depending on the clinic, technique, and number of transplanted grafts. After a personal consultation, the doctor can inform the patient of the exact cost.