Question 1

Why do patients choose Turkey over the UK or Italy for aesthetic procedures?

Accepted Answer

Turkey offers the same internationally certified surgeons, the same equipment brands (Nobel Biocare implants, Allergan Botox, Sapphire blades), and JCI-accredited clinics. The difference is driven by lower labour costs and clinic overheads, not by cutting corners on quality. For a personalised quote, please book a free consultation.

Question 2

Is it safe to have surgery in Turkey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when you choose an accredited clinic with qualified surgeons. Turkey has over 1,000 JCI-accredited or Ministry of Health-certified medical facilities. Vellorian Hair only works with clinics whose surgeons hold board certifications, use internationally recognised product brands, and have verifiable before/after portfolios. We recommend patients research their surgeon specifically — not just the clinic — and request credentials before booking.

Question 3

How do I know if a clinic is reputable?

Accepted Answer

Look for: (1) a surgeon who is a qualified MD, not a technician; (2) use of recognised international brands for implants, injectables, or equipment; (3) a verifiable before/after gallery with real patient photos; (4) transparent pricing with no hidden costs; (5) clear revision and refund policies. Vellorian Hair provides a full due diligence report on each partner clinic on request.

Question 4

How do I start the process?

Accepted Answer

Send us photos via WhatsApp, fill out the consultation form, or book a free video call. For hair transplants, send photos of your scalp from the front, top, and both sides in good lighting. For dental work, send a recent panoramic X-ray and smile photos. For hair transplant, send frontal and profile photos. We'll respond within 24 hours with a personalised plan.

Question 5

Is the initial consultation really free and without obligation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The consultation is free, requires no payment, and carries no obligation to proceed. We will review your case, answer your questions, and provide a detailed treatment plan and price quote. Many patients ask multiple questions over several weeks before deciding — we welcome this.

Question 6

What is the difference between FUE, DHI, and Sapphire FUE hair transplants?

Accepted Answer

All three extract individual follicular units from the donor area. FUE uses standard steel blades and is the most widely available technique — excellent value for large sessions. Sapphire FUE uses sapphire crystal blades for finer channels, less tissue trauma, and faster healing. DHI uses a Choi implanter pen that places grafts directly without pre-made channels, giving the surgeon tighter control over direction and angle — ideal for hairline density work and no-shave cases. For most patients seeking full coverage, FUE or Sapphire FUE is recommended; for refined hairline work, DHI is often preferred.

Question 7

How many grafts will I need for a hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

Graft count depends on the area to be covered and the density of your donor zone. General guidelines: mild recession (Norwood 2–3) requires 1,000–2,500 grafts; moderate loss (Norwood 3–4) requires 2,500–3,500 grafts; advanced loss (Norwood 5–6) requires 4,000–6,000 grafts. Your surgeon will map your donor density during the consultation and give you a precise count. Most Istanbul clinics perform sessions up to 5,000 grafts in a single day.

Question 8

When will I see the final result of a hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

Transplanted hairs shed at weeks 2–6 (shock loss) — this is normal. New growth begins at months 3–4. At month 6 you will see noticeable improvement. The full density and final result develop at months 10–14. Results continue to improve slightly up to 18 months. Patience is essential — the process cannot be accelerated.

Question 9

Is a hair transplant painful?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you will not feel pain during the extraction or implantation. The injections to numb the scalp may cause brief stinging. After the procedure, mild tenderness and tightness in the donor area are normal for 2–3 days. Most patients manage comfortably with standard over-the-counter pain relief. The vast majority of patients describe the experience as far more comfortable than they expected.

Question 10

How many grafts do I need for a hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

Graft count depends on your hair loss stage (Norwood scale) and donor density. Typical ranges: early recession (Norwood 2-3): 1,500-2,500 grafts; mid-scalp thinning (Norwood 4): 2,500-3,500 grafts; advanced loss (Norwood 5-6): 3,500-5,000 grafts. Your surgeon will assess your donor area during consultation to give a precise estimate.

Question 11

What is included in Vellorian Hair packages?

Accepted Answer

Standard packages include: the medical procedure itself, pre-operative blood tests, post-operative medications, hotel accommodation (3 nights for hair transplant, 5–7 nights for dental, 8–10 nights for hair transplant), airport transfers on arrival and departure, a personal patient coordinator available throughout your stay, and follow-up video consultations after you return home. Flights are not included — patients book their own flights.

Question 12

How long do I need to stay in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For a hair transplant, we recommend a minimum of 3 nights: day 1 for pre-operative tests and consultation, day 2 for the procedure, day 3 for the first post-operative wash at the clinic. Most patients fly home on day 4. Staying an extra night or two is perfectly fine if you want to recover comfortably before flying.

Question 13

Do UK and Italian citizens need a visa for Turkey?

Accepted Answer

UK citizens require a visa for Turkey (e-Visa or visa on arrival — check the current fee on the official Turkish e-Visa portal). Italian citizens with an EU passport do not need a visa for Turkey for stays up to 90 days — entry is visa-free. All patients should check the current requirements at the official Turkish e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.tr) before travelling. Requirements can change and we recommend verifying 2–3 weeks before your trip.

Question 14

Which Istanbul airport should I fly to?

Accepted Answer

Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side (new, modern, majority of international flights) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side (budget airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air). Both airports are served by clinic transfers. IST is typically 45–60 minutes from central Istanbul; SAW is 45–75 minutes. Check which airport your flight uses and inform your coordinator — our drivers will be at the correct terminal.

Question 15

Can I bring a companion or partner?

Accepted Answer

Yes, companions are welcome and many patients bring someone for support. We can arrange hotel accommodation for companions at preferential rates. Companions can accompany you to all consultations and wait in the clinic lounge during procedures. For surgical procedures, having someone with you for the first 1–2 days post-operation is recommended for peace of mind.

Question 16

How do I care for my hair transplant after returning home?

Accepted Answer

You will leave Istanbul with a complete aftercare kit including specialised shampoo, foam, and lotion, plus written instructions. Key points for the first month: wash gently using only the provided products for the first 2 weeks; never pick crusts (they fall naturally at days 10–14); avoid gyms, swimming pools, and saunas for 4 weeks; sleep with your head elevated for the first week; apply SPF 50+ when outdoors. Your coordinator sends week-by-week guidance and you can send photos for review at any stage.

Question 17

The transplanted hair is falling out — is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely normal. Shock loss (shedding of transplanted hair shafts at weeks 2–6) is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. The follicles remain intact under the skin and will produce new permanent hairs starting at months 3–4. If you see shedding before week 6, this is expected. If you see shedding after month 4 from regrown hairs, contact your coordinator for assessment.

Question 18

When can I return to the gym and normal exercise?

Accepted Answer

Avoid any strenuous exercise, swimming pools, saunas, and steam rooms for the first 4 weeks after your hair transplant. Light walking is fine from day 3. After 4 weeks you can gradually resume normal activity. Intense cardio and heavy lifting raise blood pressure and scalp sweating, which can dislodge grafts in the early healing phase. Your coordinator will confirm clearance at your 1-month follow-up.

Question 19

What follow-up care is provided after my hair transplant?

Accepted Answer

Vellorian Hair provides 12 months of dedicated aftercare support. This includes: a first wash at the clinic on day 2, a detailed home care protocol (washing routine, medications, sleep position), WhatsApp access to your coordinator for questions, and video consultations at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months to track your progress.

Question 20

What if there is a complication after I return home?

Accepted Answer

Contact your Vellorian Hair coordinator immediately via WhatsApp. For serious complications (signs of infection, significant pain, swelling), seek local emergency care first — do not wait for international communication. For non-emergency concerns (unusual healing, swelling, questions about results), send photos to your coordinator who will arrange a video consultation with your surgeon within 24 hours. We can also provide a written report for any local doctor you see.

Frequently Asked Questions