Rory, a 32-year-old professional from Manchester, UK, never imagined that hair loss would impact his life so early. Like many men, he began noticing subtle changes in his late 20s. It started innocently enough—a few extra hairs in the shower drain, a slightly higher forehead when he looked in the mirror. But by his early 30s, the thinning had accelerated, particularly around his hairline and temples.
Rory recalls the emotional toll vividly: “I felt like I was aging prematurely. Every photo, every video call, I’d catch myself adjusting my hair to hide the recession. It wasn’t just vanity; it was about feeling like myself again.” He explored various solutions, from over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil to natural remedies, but nothing provided lasting results. That’s when he turned his attention to surgical options, specifically a hair transplant in Turkey.
Researching the Best Hair Transplant Options
Rory’s quest for a permanent fix led him down a rabbit hole of online forums, reviews, and medical articles. He knew that Turkey had become a global hub for hair restoration. Key factors in his decision included success rates, patient testimonials, and the Turkey hair transplant cost.
After comparing several clinics, Rory zeroed in on Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic in Istanbul. Renowned for its expertise in Direct Hair Implantation (DHI), the clinic boasts over 25 years of experience and a 98% success rate based on patient feedback. “I read countless hair transplant before and after stories,” Rory says. “Dr. Aygin’s work stood out—natural-looking results without the ‘pluggy’ appearance of older methods.”
Planning the Trip for a Hair Transplant in Istanbul
Excited yet nervous, Rory prepared for his journey. Flying from Manchester to Istanbul was straightforward. He opted for the clinic’s all-inclusive package, which covered airport transfers, hotel accommodation, and all medical expenses. His procedure came in at around €3,500, including everything from pre-op tests to follow-up care—a bargain compared to the quotes he received back home.
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, a clinic representative greeted him with a sign and whisked him to a comfortable 4-star hotel near the clinic in the bustling Beyoglu district.
Rory’s Hair Transplant in Turkey: The Complete Procedure Step by Step
Rory’s first hair transplant took place the next day using the DHI method, ideal for precise placement in the hairline area. Here’s how the day unfolded:
- Pre-Procedure Consultation and Preparation (Morning): Rory arrived at the clinic at 8 AM for a final in-person assessment. Dr. Aygin himself reviewed his case, drawing the new hairline with a marker for approval. Blood tests ensured he was fit for surgery, and his donor areas (back of the head and beard) were shaved partially for extraction.
- Anesthesia and Graft Extraction (Mid-Morning): Under local anesthesia, the team began extracting follicles. Using a specialized micromotor tool, they harvested 2,700 grafts from the back of his head (the “beachhead” area, known for its density) and 430 from his beard, totaling 3,130 grafts. This phase lasted about 2-3 hours, with Rory feeling minimal discomfort—mostly just pressure.
- Lunch Break and Rest: A light meal was provided, allowing Rory to relax in a private room while the grafts were sorted and preserved in a nutrient solution.
- Implantation Phase (Afternoon): The DHI technique shone here. Each graft was loaded into a Choi implanter pen and directly inserted into the recipient sites (front hairline and temporal areas) without creating prior incisions. This minimized trauma and ensured natural angles for growth. The process took 4-5 hours, with breaks for comfort.
- Post-Procedure Wrap-Up (Evening): By 6 PM, it was done. Rory’s head was bandaged lightly, and he received instructions on care. He returned to the hotel feeling tired but optimistic.
The entire procedure was seamless, with a team of 10 professionals ensuring hygiene and efficiency. Rory emphasizes, “The DHI method was perfect for my needs—no visible scarring and quick recovery.”
Immediate Aftercare and Return Home
Post-op care began immediately. Rory was given antibiotics, painkillers, and a special shampoo. For the first few days:
- Day 1-3: Swelling around the forehead was managed with ice packs. He avoided touching the area and slept elevated.
- Washing and Check-Up: On day 3, the clinic performed the first gentle wash and removed any scabs.
Rory flew home on day 4, armed with a care kit and access to a 24/7 support line. Back in the UK, he took a week off work, experiencing mild itching but no major issues.
Before and After Hair Transplant Photos
Hair transplant before and after results aren’t instant—they unfold over months. Rory documented his progress meticulously:
- Months 1-2: Shock Loss Phase: Transplanted hairs shed, a normal process. Rory’s scalp looked pinkish, but he followed the clinic’s advice: gentle washing, avoiding sun exposure, and using prescribed sprays.
- Months 3-4: Early Growth: Tiny sprouts appeared, boosting his morale. He noticed denser coverage in the temples, though uneven at first.
- Months 5-6: Visible Improvements: Hair thickened noticeably. Rory shared hair transplant before and after photos on forums, inspiring others.
- Months 7-9: Maturation: The new hair integrated seamlessly, matching his natural texture. Beard donor sites healed without scars.
- Month 12: Full Results: A year later, Rory’s hairline was restored—fuller, more youthful. “It’s like turning back the clock,” he says. Regular check-ins via video with the clinic ensured everything was on track.
Throughout, Rory tracked progress with weekly photos and a journal, noting how his confidence soared. Minor setbacks, like temporary numbness, resolved naturally.
Why Choose Dr. Serkan Aygin
Rory’s experience at Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic transformed his life, proving that a hair transplant in Turkey can be life-changing when done right. From the initial research to the one-year milestone, every step was supported by expertise and care. If you’re facing similar hair loss, consider the affordability of Turkey hair transplant cost and the proven results at clinics like this.
Rory’s advice? “Do your homework, choose a reputable surgeon, and be patient—the results are worth it.” Today, at 33, he feels revitalized, ready to embrace life without hiding behind hats or filters.
