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Frequently Asked Questions

Are you considering a hair transplant, or are you already undergoing the procedure?
We have gathered answers to the questions we most frequently receive from our clients. If you cannot find what you are looking for, you are always welcome to contact us for a free, no-obligation assessment.

Before the treatment
Am I a good candidate for a hair transplant?

This is one of the questions we are asked most frequently, and the answer depends on more factors than many people realize.

To perform a hair transplant, there must first be a donor area with a sufficient number of healthy hair follicles. The donor area is typically the hair at the back of the head, which is more resistant to hair loss and is therefore used to restore hair in areas where it has thinned or been lost.

In addition, we consider your pattern of hair loss, age, hair type, and your expectations regarding the result. Some individuals are ideal candidates, while others might benefit more from waiting or combining a hair transplant with other treatments.

The only way to get a precise answer is through an individual assessment. That is why we offer a free, no-obligation hair analysis to evaluate your options.

How old do you have to be?

As a general rule, you must be at least 18 years old to undergo a hair transplant. However, at Håreksperten, we often recommend being at least 22–23 years old, as hair loss is typically easier to assess at that stage.

In cases of very early hair loss, it is important to take a long-term view. The goal is not only to achieve a good result today but also to ensure that the hairline and donor area remain suitable for many years to come.

Therefore, factors such as age, hair loss, and future options are always assessed on an individual basis before a treatment is planned.

What are grafts?

En graft er en lille gruppe hårsække, som flyttes fra donorområdet til de områder, hvor håret er blevet tyndere eller er forsvundet.

En graft indeholder typisk mellem 1 og 4 hår. Det betyder, at 3.000 grafts ikke nødvendigvis svarer til 3.000 hår. Antallet af hår afhænger af kvaliteten og sammensætningen af de enkelte grafts.

Det vigtigste er derfor ikke antallet af grafts alene, men hvordan de fordeles og placeres for at skabe et naturligt resultat.

How many grafts do I need?

Det korte svar er, at det er forskelligt fra person til person.

Antallet af grafts afhænger blandt andet af hvor stort området med hårtab er, hvor tæt håret ønskes, og hvor stærkt donorområdet er. En person med høje tindinger vil typisk have brug for færre grafts end en person med omfattende hårtab på både front og krone.

Hos Håreksperten fokuserer vi ikke på at sælge grafts. Vi fokuserer på at skabe det bedst mulige resultat. Derfor arbejder vi med fast pris og vurderer i stedet, hvor mange grafts der skal bruges for at opnå et naturligt og harmonisk resultat.

Hvis du er ung og stadig oplever hårtab, kan det være vigtigt at bevare en del af donorområdet til fremtidige behandlinger. Donorhåret er en begrænset ressource, og derfor planlægges behandlingen altid med både det nuværende hårtab og dine langsigtede muligheder for øje.

Det betyder også, at du ikke skal bekymre dig om, hvorvidt du har brug for 2.500 eller 4.000 grafts. Det er vores opgave at planlægge behandlingen korrekt, så du får det bedst mulige resultat både nu og i fremtiden.

How does the free valuation work?

The process begins with a free, no-obligation assessment of your hair condition. You send us photos of your hair loss and donor area, and we then evaluate your suitability for a hair transplant.

Based on the photos, you will receive an honest assessment regarding whether you are a good candidate for the procedure, which method is recommended, and what results you can realistically expect.

Which pictures should I send?

To provide an accurate assessment, we need photos of your hair from several angles.

We recommend photos of the front, both sides, the top of the head, and the donor area at the back of the neck. The photos should be taken in good lighting without filters or editing so that we can correctly assess the extent of hair loss and the quality of the donor area.

If you are unsure which photos to take or how to take them, you can watch the video below. In it, Zari explains exactly which photos we need and how to get the best shots for the assessment.

Should I shave off the hair before the treatment?

No. You should not cut or shave your hair yourself before the treatment.

We recommend arriving with your hair in its natural state, as this gives the clinic the best opportunity to analyze your hair loss, assess the donor area, and properly plan the treatment.

In most cases, the hair is shaved as part of the procedure to provide the specialists with optimal working conditions and ensure the highest possible precision during the operation. Therefore, you do not need to do anything to your hair yourself before you travel.

Can women get a hair transplant?

Yes. In many cases, women can also be good candidates for a hair transplant.

However, it depends on the cause of the hair loss. Some forms of hair loss in women are well-suited for transplantation, while other types require a different approach.

Therefore, a thorough assessment is particularly important so that the treatment can be planned based on the specific cause of the hair loss and the available options.

What should I avoid before a hair transplant?

To ensure your body is in the best possible condition before the surgery, we recommend following a few simple guidelines in the days leading up to the procedure.

Stop drinking alcohol at least one week before the surgery.
Stop smoking and using e-cigarettes, cannabis, and other nicotine products at least one week before the surgery.
Stop drinking coffee, energy drinks, and other caffeinated beverages three days before the surgery.
Stop drinking herbal and green tea one week before the surgery.
Stop taking dietary supplements, vitamins, and painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Ipren one week before the surgery. You may use Panodil.
These recommendations help optimize blood circulation and create the best conditions for the surgery, the healing process, and the final result.

You will, of course, receive full instructions prior to your treatment so that you know exactly what to keep in mind leading up to the day of surgery.

Can I bring a companion?

Ja. Du er velkommen til at tage din partner, en ven eller et familiemedlem med til Istanbul.

Mange vælger at rejse med en ledsager, så opholdet bliver mere trygt og afslappet. Hotellet ligger centralt i Şişli på den europæiske side af Istanbul, hvilket gør det nemt at opleve byen før eller efter behandlingen.

En ledsager kan tilføjes for €20 pr. dag pr. person. Hvis du ønsker at forlænge opholdet, kan ekstra overnatninger tilkøbes for €120 pr. nat.

Kontakt os gerne inden booking, hvis du ønsker at medbringe en ledsager eller planlægger et længere ophold.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes. If you wish to stay in Istanbul before or after your treatment, additional nights can be purchased.
Many people choose to combine the treatment with a few extra days in the city, either to relax or to explore Istanbul. The hotel is centrally located in Şişli, close to shopping, restaurants, and public transport.

If you would like extra nights at the hotel, these can be purchased for €120 per night.

How do I book my treatment?

The first step is a free, no-obligation assessment of your hair condition.
You send us photos of your hair loss and donor area; we then evaluate your options and review what results you can realistically expect. If a hair transplant is the right solution for you, we will work together to find a suitable date.

We then assist with planning the entire process, including accommodation, local transport in Istanbul, and the practical details of the procedure. You will also receive information on how best to prepare before your departure.

We support you throughout the entire process, from the initial assessment to the final follow-up after the treatment.

During the treatment
How is a hair transplant performed?

En hårtransplantation går i al sin enkelthed ud på at flytte dine egne hårsække fra donorområdet i nakken til de områder, hvor håret er blevet tyndere eller er forsvundet.
På operationsdagen starter behandlingen med en gennemgang af hårlinjen og det ønskede resultat. Herefter barberes håret typisk kort, donorområdet bedøves, og hårsækkene udtages enkeltvis. Når hårsækkene er klargjort, placeres de med stor præcision i de områder, der skal behandles.

Da der anvendes dine egne hårsække, vil de transplanterede hår fortsætte med at vokse naturligt efter behandlingen. Hele forløbet planlægges individuelt ud fra dit hårtab, donorområde og dine langsigtede muligheder.

Does a hair transplant hurt?

We receive this question almost daily.
The hair transplant procedure itself is generally not painful, as it is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients find that the small pricks from the anesthetic injections are the most noticeable part of the procedure.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, you may feel touch and movement, but you should not experience pain.

After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness, tightness, or swelling for a few days, though for most people, this is surprisingly minimal.

If you wish to purchase sedation, you can also avoid the discomfort associated with the local anesthesia, which takes approximately 5–7 minutes.

How long does the treatment take?

A hair transplant typically takes between 5 and 8 hours, depending on the scope of the procedure and the number of grafts.
The day consists of several stages, including planning the hairline, extracting hair follicles, preparing the grafts, and the implantation itself.

There will also be breaks during the process, allowing you to eat, drink, and relax. Although it is a long day, most people find that the time passes more quickly than expected.

Will I be awake during the operation?

Yes. Hair transplants are usually performed under local anesthesia, which means you are awake throughout the entire procedure.
Many people are actually surprised by how relaxed the atmosphere is.

What is the difference between FUE Sapphire and DHI?

FUE Sapphire and DHI are the two most widely used methods in modern hair transplantation.
With FUE Sapphire, hair follicles are first extracted from the donor area; small channels are then opened in the scalp where the grafts are placed. This method is particularly well-suited for larger areas and allows for high density.

DHI utilizes a specialized Choi Pen, enabling hair follicles to be implanted directly into the scalp. This gives the hair specialist greater control over the direction, angle, and placement of each individual hair.

Both methods can yield excellent, natural-looking results. The choice depends on the specific hair condition and the desired outcome.

You do not need to make this decision in advance.

The choice between FUE Sapphire and DHI depends on factors such as the extent of your hair loss, the donor area, your hairline, and the specific areas requiring treatment.

For some, FUE Sapphire is the optimal solution. For others, DHI may offer distinct advantages—particularly for hairlines or smaller areas where precision is paramount.

During the assessment, we review your options and recommend the method that offers the best conditions for a natural and long-lasting result.

How many days does the treatment take?

The hair transplant procedure itself is performed in a single day and typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, depending on the scope of the treatment.
Most clients stay in Istanbul for three days: the first day is for arrival, the second is the day of the surgery, and the third is for a check-up at the clinic before returning home. This allows ample time for both the treatment and the initial follow-up.

Can I take breaks during the treatment?

Yes, of course.
A hair transplant is a long procedure, and there will be opportunities for breaks along the way. You can stretch your legs, use the restroom, have something to drink, or simply take a short break if you need to.

The goal is for you to feel as comfortable as possible throughout the day.

Will I receive food and drink during the operation?

Water and lunch will be available during the day. As the treatment often lasts several hours, scheduled breaks are included so you can eat and replenish your energy.
If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please let us know before the treatment.

What happens if I need to go to the toilet?

Then you go to the restroom.
It might sound like an odd question, but it is actually something many people wonder about before the procedure. The hair transplant does not take place like a traditional surgery where you are under anesthesia or strapped down.

If you need a break at any point, simply let the staff know; they will ensure the procedure is safely paused until you return. This is completely normal and happens often during the day.

After the treatment
What happens immediately after the procedure?

After the treatment, you will receive medication, shampoo, and detailed instructions for the following days. The treated area will be red, and there will typically be small scabs around the transplanted hair follicles. Some people may also experience mild swelling on the forehead or around the eyes during the first few days.

Before you travel home, you will attend a follow-up appointment at the clinic and your bandage will be removed. You will also receive detailed instructions for your ongoing aftercare.

When can I wash my hair?

You can wash your hair on the second day after the procedure. The clinic will provide you with both lotion and shampoo, along with detailed washing instructions.

It is important to follow the instructions carefully, as the transplanted hair follicles are still vulnerable during the initial healing period. Do not rub, scratch, or use regular hair products until the scalp has healed.

How should I sleep after the treatment?

For the first 7 to 10 days, it is recommended that you sleep on your back with your head elevated. Many people use a neck pillow or several pillows to avoid contact with the transplanted area.

This helps protect the new grafts and reduce the risk of swelling.

When can I exercise again?

Light walking and normal daily activity can usually be resumed after a few days. Strenuous exercise, running, gym workouts, contact sports, and activities that significantly increase your heart rate should generally be avoided for at least 14 days.

Your body needs time to heal, and excessive sweating may irritate the scalp during the early recovery period.

When can I wear a cap or hat?

During the first few days, you should avoid wearing anything on your head that may put pressure on the transplanted hair follicles.

After approximately 3 to 5 days, it is often possible to wear a loose-fitting cap or hat. You will receive specific recommendations after the treatment, depending on how the healing process is progressing.

When can I return to work?

Many people return to office work after a few days. If your job involves physical activity, heavy lifting, or spending long periods outdoors, it is often recommended to wait a little longer.

It also depends on how visible the redness and scabs are and how comfortable you feel during the recovery process.

Is swelling normal?

Yes. Swelling is a completely normal part of the healing process.

It usually appears on the forehead or around the eyes 2 to 5 days after the treatment and generally disappears on its own within a few days.

Are scabs normal?

Yes. Small scabs around the transplanted hair follicles are a natural part of the healing process.

They protect the area while the skin repairs itself and gradually disappear as you wash your hair. It is important not to pick or remove them.

What should I do if it itches?

Itching is very common during the healing process and is often a sign that the skin is recovering.

Avoid scratching or rubbing the area. Instead, follow the instructions for washing and moisturizing. If the itching becomes severe, you can always contact us for advice.

When can I go out in the sun?

You should avoid direct sunlight on the treated area for at least 1 month after the procedure.

The scalp is particularly sensitive during the period after treatment, and strong sun exposure may affect both healing and skin pigmentation.

Can I drink alcohol or smoke after the procedure?

We recommend avoiding smoking and alcohol for at least one week after the treatment.

Alcohol and nicotine can affect blood circulation and the body's ability to heal properly. The better the conditions you provide for your body during the initial recovery period, the better the conditions for the transplanted hair follicles.

When can I cut or shave my hair?

The new hair can be trimmed with scissors during the first 12 months, and the donor area can be shaved with a hair trimmer after 3 weeks. You can start using a hair dryer 1 month after the treatment, but avoid excessive heat. Keep an appropriate distance from the scalp.

The result
When will I see the results?

Patience is an important part of a hair transplant. The first new hairs typically begin to grow after 3 to 4 months.

After around 6 months, most people start to see a noticeable difference, while the majority of the final result is usually visible after 9 to 12 months. For some people, the hair continues to mature and become denser for up to 18 months after the treatment.

Hair in the crown area typically starts growing around 2 months later than in other transplanted areas. Blood circulation in this area is often lower, which can result in a slower healing and growth process.

Will the transplanted hair fall out again?

Yes, and this is completely normal.

In the weeks after the treatment, most people will experience shedding of the transplanted hairs. This is known as shock loss and is a natural part of the process. The hair follicles remain beneath the skin and enter a resting phase before they begin producing new hair.

This does not mean that the treatment has failed. It is an expected part of the hair transplant process.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. The transplanted hair follicles are typically taken from the donor area at the back of the head, where the hair is genetically more resistant to hair loss.

Once the hair follicles are moved to their new location, they retain these characteristics and normally continue to produce hair for the rest of your life.

How natural will the results look?

A natural-looking result depends on several factors, including the hairline design, placement of the hair follicles, hair direction, and the experience of the specialist.

At Håreksperten, the focus is not on creating the lowest possible hairline or placing the highest possible number of grafts. The focus is on creating a result that naturally suits your face, age, and future hair loss pattern.

The goal is for no one to be able to tell that you have had a hair transplant.

How dense can my hair become?

This depends on the quality of the donor area, your hair type, age, and the size of the area that needs to be covered.

Some people can achieve very high density, while others will achieve the best balance between density and maintaining a healthy donor area. The goal is always to create a natural and balanced result rather than using an unnecessary number of grafts.

Can I lose more hair in the future?

Yes. A hair transplant does not stop natural hair loss in your existing hair.

The transplanted hairs are normally permanent, but the existing hairs around the treated area may continue to be affected by hereditary hair loss over time. For this reason, the treatment is always planned with future hair loss in mind.

Can I have the same hairline I had when I was 18?

In most cases, this would neither be possible nor recommended.

A natural hairline should suit your face, age, and the way your hair loss is expected to develop. A very low or youthful hairline may begin to look unnatural later in life.

For this reason, we design hairlines with a result in mind that will continue to look natural in 10, 20, and 30 years.

How long does a hair transplant last?

The transplanted hair follicles are normally permanent and will continue to produce hair for the rest of your life.

A hair transplant should therefore be considered a long-term solution. How well the result is maintained over the years depends on factors such as your overall hair condition, continued hair loss, and how carefully the donor area has been planned and used.

The Journey to Istanbul
How long should I stay in Istanbul?

Most clients stay in Istanbul for 3 days and 2 nights.

Typically, you arrive the day before the treatment, have the procedure the following day, and attend a follow-up appointment at the clinic before travelling home.

If you would like to stay longer in Istanbul before or after the treatment, additional nights can be added for €120 per night. Many clients choose to combine their treatment with a few extra days in the city.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes. If you would like to stay in Istanbul before or after the treatment, additional nights can be added.

Many clients choose to combine their treatment with a few extra days in the city. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore Istanbul at your own pace.

Additional nights can be added for €120 per night, and we are happy to help arrange this as part of your booking.

What flight times should I choose?

We recommend booking your flights only after your treatment date has been confirmed.

On the day of arrival, there are usually no scheduled activities other than hotel check-in, so you can choose the flight that suits you best.

On your departure day, we recommend booking your flight no earlier than 12:30 PM. Your follow-up appointment at the clinic takes place in the morning, allowing enough time for both the check-up and your transfer to the airport without stress.

If you are unsure, we are happy to review your flight times before you book.

Is the hotel included?

Yes. Hotel accommodation with breakfast is included in the price.

The hotel is centrally located in Şişli on the European side of Istanbul, close to restaurants, shopping, and public transport. This makes it easy to get around the city both before and after your treatment.

Will I be picked up from the airport?

Yes.

When you arrive in Istanbul, your driver will meet you and take you directly to the hotel. All transportation during your stay is arranged in advance, so you do not need to find your own way or organise transfers yourself.

Is transportation included?

Yes. All transportation between the airport, hotel, and clinic is included.

You will be picked up from the airport upon arrival and taken to the hotel. Transportation between the hotel and clinic, as well as your return transfer to the airport, is also included.

You therefore do not need to worry about taxis or public transport during your stay, unless you choose to explore Istanbul or make plans outside the scheduled treatment programme.

Do I need to book my own flights?

Yes. Flights are not included in the package.

We recommend booking your flights only after your treatment date has been confirmed. This helps prevent problems if the date needs to be changed.

You can choose your own departure airport and airline, allowing you to find the option that suits you best.

Can I bring a companion?

Yes. You are welcome to bring your partner, a friend, or a family member with you to Istanbul.

Many clients choose to travel with a companion to make their stay feel more comfortable and relaxed. The hotel is centrally located in Şişli, making it easy to explore the city before or after the treatment.

A companion can be added for €20 per day, per person. If you would like to stay longer in Istanbul, additional nights can be added for €120 per night.

2. Hair transplant
Do I have enough donor hair for another hair transplant?

It depends on how many grafts were previously extracted and how dense the donor area is today. We always assess the donor area individually before recommending another treatment.

When can I have a second hair transplant?

It is generally recommended to wait until the results of the first hair transplant have fully developed so that the need for another treatment can be assessed accurately.

Why do some people choose to have a second hair transplant?

Some people want more density, while others experience continued hair loss in areas that were not treated during the first procedure. A second hair transplant can also be used to adjust or improve previous results.

Can you correct a previous hair transplant?

In many cases, yes. If the hairline looks unnatural, the density is insufficient, or the result does not meet expectations, another hair transplant can often improve the overall appearance.

Can the results of a second hair transplant be as good as the first?

It depends on the donor area, hair quality, and how many grafts are still available. Many people achieve very good results with a second treatment.

Can I increase the density in an area that has already been transplanted?

Yes. It is often possible to increase density in areas that have previously been treated, provided that the donor area allows it.

Can I lower or adjust my hairline further?

In some cases, yes. However, this requires an individual assessment of the donor area and the existing hairline.