A disturbing photo showing the aftermath of a Turkish hair transplant has been spreading on the internet. The photo shows how a man’s head was swollen to a huge size, looking like the hero of the video game Bonk’s Revenge, a 2D platformer set in prehistory . The photo has triggered a discussion about the safety and quality of hair transplants in Turkey, a country that draws thousands of medical tourists every year.
How does a hair transplant lead to swelling?
Swelling is a normal side effect of hair transplant surgery, especially when the procedure involves taking hair follicles from the back of the head and putting them into the bald areas. This technique is called Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), and it is the most common method of hair transplantation in Turkey.
The swelling happens because of the fluid that is injected into the scalp to numb the pain and make the extraction and implantation of the grafts easier. The fluid can build up in the forehead and around the eyes, creating a puffy look. The swelling usually goes away within a few days, but in some cases it can be more extreme and last longer.
What are the risks of hair transplants in Turkey?
Hair transplants in Turkey are not risk-free. Some of the possible complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage, poor growth, and unnatural results. These risks are higher when the surgery is done by unskilled or unqualified doctors, technicians, or clinics that do not follow the proper standards of hygiene, equipment, and care.
Sadly, there are many such clinics in Turkey that offer cheap and low-quality hair transplants to unsuspecting patients. These clinics often use aggressive marketing strategies, such as fake reviews, misleading photos, and unrealistic promises, to attract customers from abroad. They also operate illegally, without the necessary licenses, permits, or insurance.
It’s not clear if this man was the victim of one of these cheap clinics, but take a look at the viral photo showing the aftermath of a man’s Turkish hair transplant.
Why do people travel to Turkey for hair transplants?
Despite the risks, many people still choose to travel to Turkey for hair transplants. The main reason is the cost. Hair transplants in Turkey are much cheaper than in other countries, such as the US, the UK, or Germany. The average cost of a hair transplant in Turkey ranges from $2,100 to $8,600, depending on the method, the number of grafts, and the clinic. In comparison, the average cost of a hair transplant in the US is between $11,400 and $15,900.
Another reason is the availability. Turkey has a large number of hair transplant clinics, doctors, and technicians, who can perform the surgery with short waiting times and flexible schedules. Turkey also has a well-developed medical tourism industry, with many services and facilities that cater to foreign patients, such as hotels, transfers, translators, and aftercare.
How to choose a trustworthy hair transplant clinic in Turkey?
If you are thinking about getting a hair transplant in Turkey, you should do your research carefully and choose a trustworthy and reliable clinic. Here are some tips to help you make a smart decision. First, verify the credentials of the doctor and the clinic. Make sure they have the proper qualifications, experience, and certifications. Look for accreditations from international organizations, such as the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) or the Joint Commission International (JCI).
Second, request for before and after photos and videos of previous patients. Look for realistic and consistent results, and avoid clinics that use photoshopped or stolen images. You can also contact the patients directly and ask for their feedback and testimonials.
Third, compare the prices and the packages. Beware of clinics that offer very low or very high prices, as they may indicate poor quality or hidden fees. Look for clinics that offer all-inclusive packages that cover the surgery, the medication, the accommodation, the transportation, and the aftercare.
Fourth, read the reviews and the ratings. Look for honest and unbiased opinions from verified customers on trusted platforms, such as Trustpilot, Google, or Facebook. Avoid clinics that have fake or negative reviews, or no reviews at all.
Fifth, consult with the doctor and the clinic. Ask as many questions as you can about the procedure, the risks, the expectations, and the guarantees. Make sure you feel comfortable and confident with the doctor and the clinic, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you have any doubts.
Hair transplants in Turkey can be a good option for people who suffer from hair loss, and want to improve their appearance and confidence. However, they also come with certain risks and challenges that should not be ignored or underestimated. Therefore, it is important to do your homework and choose a trustworthy and reliable clinic that can provide you with safe, effective, and natural-looking results.
Also remember there are people who have used natural methods, and reversed their hair loss.
