Guidance / Help - Looking for Hair Transplant This Year

[manwithaplan]

Good day all,

Thank you all in advance for all the help and tips.

*disclaimer, about 5 years ago, I made a post while in college, if you want to follow the progress in terms of hair loss*

Im looking to get a FUE hair transplant, more so specifically in Istanbul. Between it being the hair transplant capital of the world, multiple effective doctors, and cost saving, I figured it would be the best best. Now that I’m of age(turned 26 November of last year) and a few other factors, I figured now would be a good time to get it done. I do have a few things to post / ask and figured it would be useful to use this forum again and post my perspective to gain the knowledge of others who have been through the trenches.. now that I’m a bit older and can do the procedure. I have grown, in terms of acceptance since my first post, where I was clearly a bit more immature / naive to the fact

I have posted a few updated pics on this thread , I can always supply more to specific areas, if need be. 

Some background information - in terms of cost, I’m realistically looking to spend $10k. If that’s a realistic or not when it comes to cost within that area for FUE procedures, do tell me.I’ve been losing my hair since around age 20 (2016) and have been taking finasteride on and off since age 22. I recently started taking Finasteride again this past October once I realized, in all honesty, that my hair loss hasn’t truly changed in about 2 or so years and seems to have stabilized. When my hair loss first started, it was quick and sudden.. I would notice hair falling out immediately with every bit of pressure I would put on my head while showering. Despite losing a bit more hair since I first noticed in 2016, (hair line has thinned out and crown has disappeared a bit more, really noticed this in 2019/2020), it has slowed down the past 2 or so years. I don’t notice or see any hair coming off my head while shampooing my scalp in the shower (and believe me, I’m OCD about it lol.) 

I can get away with basic activities by using Toppik , as I have been since 2018.  I’ve had to utilize it more as time went on and my hair loss grew to my hair line and crown. In my pictures, you can see the difference it makes.

 

I recognize that I’m more than likely closer to a Norwood 5, between my frontal area and crown. I’ll realistically need 3-5k grafts at least to cover the crown and restore my hairline. I do, however have hope with a solid first hair transplant (and realistically a second one, more than likely to get extra / secure coverage on crown or any additional areas that may need extra TLC) that I can get a good result. I have always have super thick hair and my donor areas are still very much vibrant and alive at least

 

I have not done a consultation with any clinics yet to fully understand or receive a doctors’ diagnosis on how many grafts I’d need for coverage/how many can be used for surgery and what Norwood I truly am. I understand that’s important, but wanted to consult with extra heads to make sure I’m taking the right steps and procedures.

 

I understand, like stated above, looking at decent pictures with good lighting, as well as before / after results of similar hair styles within what I have, as well as other credentials, involvement in research/head of boards, etc is important. I narrowed it down to 2 doctors I’ve done some research on that offer, from my understanding, a solid price and results with patients similar to myself and all things considered above.

Granted, if I’m a bit off and need to reconsider who I look at based on reviews and price range, I’ll happily listen. I’m aware there can be other options out there or I may have looked narrowed it down to a few names that aren’t well respected and I’m not aware. 

1) ASMED | Dr. Erdogan 2) Cosmedica | Dr. Acar 

Are these good options? Can I find better options in the nearby US with a price range within the $10k? I’ve personally heard nothing but positive things about the 2, specifically Dr. Erdogan. He’s a well known name I’ve kept up with since I started my hair loss adventure years ago. I’m not sure how long wait times are between many clinics either, or if that is a big issue as well. Regardless, happy for any advice or guidance on any additional things fo consider / look out for before I reach out to various Doctors for consultations and the eventual decision / surgery  

Im sure I will edit this post and provide more information as time goes on. I just wanted to run 

Edited January 20, 2023 by manwithaplan
Add on to post/fixing wordage

[botchedguy95]

I'm sorry mate but you very obviously have NOT done your research if those are your top picks. ASMED and Erdogan is absolutely not respected on any forum except the forums where mods get paid to remove critical and negative opinions like the Turkish and Italian forums. On the French, Spanish and English forums ASMED has been rightfully dragged through the mud.

Good options in Turkey are FUECapilar, Bicer, HLC, Pekineer.. I would also consider EUGENIX. There is absolutely no reason you should go to an overpriced hair mill like ASMED and risk donor depletion, low yields and poorly designed hairlines

[manwithaplan]

2 hours ago, botchedguy95 said:

I'm sorry mate but you very obviously have NOT done your research if those are your top picks. ASMED and Erdogan is absolutely not respected on any forum except the forums where mods get paid to remove critical and negative opinions like the Turkish and Italian forums. On the French, Spanish and English forums ASMED has been rightfully dragged through the mud.

Good options in Turkey are FUECapilar, Bicer, HLC, Pekineer.. I would also consider EUGENIX. There is absolutely no reason you should go to an overpriced hair mill like ASMED and risk donor depletion, low yields and poorly designed hairlines

Was not aware, sorry, I guess I’m new to the game, try not to attack😂

 

For my understanding.. Can you explain why places like this have such a bad reputation and what I should look out for? It’s not that I haven’t done research, just obviously not aware of specific hair clinics. I appreciate the advice and heads up. I will check into them, any reason why you recommend these places as well? Just so I can understand. Sorry for my lack of understanding.

[Melvin- Admin]

We’ve compiled a list of surgeons that we recommend, based on their reviews and results. I would use our list as a starting point for research.

https://hairtransplantnetwork.com/best-hair-transplant-surgeons

[manwithaplan]

8 minutes ago, Melvin- Moderator said:

We’ve compiled a list of surgeons that we recommend, based on their reviews and results. I would use our list as a starting point for research.

https://hairtransplantnetwork.com/best-hair-transplant-surgeons

Thanks man! I really appreciate that, would you mind if I took a look at some doctors and come back after some findings and ask a few questions/recommendations? I realize my research , after the initial comment I received, was a bit poor. Quickly recognized that by due diligence and extra research (who would have guessed). I want to make sure I hit the nail on the head currently.

Thanks again!

[botchedguy95]

5 hours ago, manwithaplan said:

Was not aware, sorry, I guess I’m new to the game, try not to attack😂

 

For my understanding.. Can you explain why places like this have such a bad reputation and what I should look out for? It’s not that I haven’t done research, just obviously not aware of specific hair clinics. I appreciate the advice and heads up. I will check into them, any reason why you recommend these places as well? Just so I can understand. Sorry for my lack of understanding.

Sorry if my tone was harsh there mate, I would do what Melvin advised and check the recommended list.. if I were in your position I would strongly consider Eugenix, they are absolutely killing it currently, amazing results and very nice price point.

[manwithaplan]

1 minute ago, botchedguy95 said:

Sorry if my tone was harsh there mate, I would do what Melvin advised and check the recommended list.. if I were in your position I would strongly consider Eugenix, they are absolutely killing it currently, amazing results and very nice price point.

No worries mate 😁 some people can take it one way, for me, made me think… and it showed how weak my research was, truthfully. So as a result, I’ve spent all morning researching and you were completely correct. It’s insane.

Based off of the list posted above, I sent consultation requests and submitted my information to a few clinics around my area and in Turkey. I’ll take a look at Eugenix too. My main question, for that clinic, would be if the doctor works more so 1 on 1 with you and your surgery/procedure and post op treatment. You taught me to avoid looking at places that have technicians doing the main blunt work, I’d say as well. Or am I being too picky?

[botchedguy95]

2 minutes ago, manwithaplan said:

No worries mate 😁 some people can take it one way, for me, made me think… and it showed how weak my research was, truthfully. So as a result, I’ve spent all morning researching and you were completely correct. It’s insane.

Based off of the list posted above, I sent consultation requests and submitted my information to a few clinics around my area and in Turkey. I’ll take a look at Eugenix too. My main question, for that clinic, would be if the doctor works more so 1 on 1 with you and your surgery/procedure and post op treatment. You taught me to avoid looking at places that have technicians doing the main blunt work, I’d say as well. Or am I being too picky?

I don't think you are being too picky, this is a life changing surgery and you should be as picky as you feel is right for you. However keep in mind very few doctors do the entire procedure themselves, and some of the best clinics in the world use technicians, even Couto and Bisanga use techs, the difference is the level of surgical protocol and quality of technicians. If you can go to a pricier option I would go for Bisanga, if you want a cheaper option that does the full surgery himself it's Bruno Pinto but the wait could be several years.

In Turkey I would probably only consider Bicer or Pekineer, but really mate the worst thing you could do is let location limit you. As I said this is life changing and travelling abroad for two to three days to do it right is worth it!

[SteveUrkel02]

8 hours ago, botchedguy95 said:

I'm sorry mate but you very obviously have NOT done your research if those are your top picks. ASMED and Erdogan is absolutely not respected on any forum except the forums where mods get paid to remove critical and negative opinions like the Turkish and Italian forums. On the French, Spanish and English forums ASMED has been rightfully dragged through the mud.

Good options in Turkey are FUECapilar, Bicer, HLC, Pekineer.. I would also consider EUGENIX. There is absolutely no reason you should go to an overpriced hair mill like ASMED and risk donor depletion, low yields and poorly designed hairlines

HLC? Hell nah

[manwithaplan]

5 minutes ago, botchedguy95 said:

I don't think you are being too picky, this is a life changing surgery and you should be as picky as you feel is right for you. However keep in mind very few doctors do the entire procedure themselves, and some of the best clinics in the world use technicians, even Couto and Bisanga use techs, the difference is the level of surgical protocol and quality of technicians. If you can go to a pricier option I would go for Bisanga, if you want a cheaper option that does the full surgery himself it's Bruno Pinto but the wait could be several years.

In Turkey I would probably only consider Bicer or Pekineer, but really mate the worst thing you could do is let location limit you. As I said this is life changing and travelling abroad for two to three days to do it right is worth it!

I’m not limited to traveling, I would actually look forward to the travel abroad, as travel baseball really limited my ability to travel during summers and childhood  I sent consultation requests for those 2 in that list mentioned above. My biggest worry, in general, is wait time I’d say at this point, I can only hope I can receive surgery by summer time. Fingers crossed I’m being realistic and don’t sound crazy. Thank you for the help again, I shall keep you updated mate 🤝 

 

 

[Samadeus]

1 hour ago, Melvin- Moderator said:

We’ve compiled a list of surgeons that we recommend, based on their reviews and results. I would use our list as a starting point for research.

https://hairtransplantnetwork.com/best-hair-transplant-surgeons

Thanks for the job you guys are doing. Would you mind having a look at my last message here? 

 

Edited January 25, 2023 by Samadeus

[manwithaplan]

Quick update: based on multiple messages back from a few different places and their consultants, I’ll probably need at least 4-5k for the decent coverage I’m looking for. 
 

Should be getting a final price estimation from Bicer, as I’ve been in talks with Consultants via WhatsApp and Bicer will have a look and I’ll have a final estimated price here in the near future. Also have messaged Hasson and Wong and Resul Yamun.

 

I know Bicer is considered a bit more “pricey”, but I’m really enjoying the thorough questions , communication, and a more prolonged approach, no more than 4k grafts at a time and a dedicated plan that they take is really appealing and shows , to me, they’re about getting true results and are willing to not rush things for the best result.

will keep updated as I hear back from more doctors and get a few options in terms of price and what can be done. 

[Rafael Manelli]

7 minutes ago, manwithaplan said:

Quick update: based on multiple messages back from a few different places and their consultants, I’ll probably need at least 4-5k for the decent coverage I’m looking for. 
 

Should be getting a final price estimation from Bicer, as I’ve been in talks with Consultants via WhatsApp and Bicer will have a look and I’ll have a final estimated price here in the near future. Also have messaged Hasson and Wong and Resul Yamun.

 

I know Bicer is considered a bit more “pricey”, but I’m really enjoying the thorough questions , communication, and a more prolonged approach, no more than 4k grafts at a time and a dedicated plan that they take is really appealing and shows , to me, they’re about getting true results and are willing to not rush things for the best result.

will keep updated as I hear back from more doctors and get a few options in terms of price and what can be done. 

Strange. I’ve heard Bicer is great value for money. Hassan and Wong are much more expensive.

[A_4_Archan]

@manwithaplan considering your age whervr you go plz go for a conservative approach and future loss in mind...specially whn u go to turkey...dont go like 5k grafts in one procedure ....and dnt be on and off from medication..use finasteride and minoxidil if you dnt find any adverse effects ....there are many good doctors in the recommended list who have produced good results and who have appropriate charges...look thm and analyse them ...

I guess seeing the demand we should even make a list of surgeons called "budget stars" ...wht do u say @Melvin- Moderator

Just a suggestion on a lighter note..😄

[manwithaplan]

On 1/31/2023 at 3:56 AM, Archan said:

@manwithaplan considering your age whervr you go plz go for a conservative approach and future loss in mind...specially whn u go to turkey...dont go like 5k grafts in one procedure ....and dnt be on and off from medication..use finasteride and minoxidil if you dnt find any adverse effects ....there are many good doctors in the recommended list who have produced good results and who have appropriate charges...look thm and analyse them ...

I guess seeing the demand we should even make a list of surgeons called "budget stars" ...wht do u say @Melvin- Moderator

Just a suggestion on a lighter note..😄

Hey, thanks for the comment. I agree, I’ve been in contact w Bicer and Dr. Yamun. Both were professional in the feedback I gave from pictures and videos. Both said I’d need more that 3500 grafts (not surprising). I’d say in total, I’d need 5000ish grafts to get a full transformation I’m happy with. Bicer, I know, doesn’t go above 3500-4000 ish per surgery while Yamun can go 4-5k per surgery. Bicer is more expensive compared to Yamun, especially considering the package and fixed price Yamun has with everything included. 
 

However, I’m leaning more towards Bicer, as the feedback I got was realistic to a long term approach (for full transparency, I’m aware I’ll need 2 surgeries for a “full” transformation, just am aware how important the first one is for donor hair retention and fixing issues/not creating other issues.) I am awaiting a final estimated price from her as of Tuesday morning, via the consultant on WhatsApp. The before and after pics of her work are remarkable, and she seems to do a lot of the work herself where Yamun, from what I seen, has more techs do the dirty work, which can lead to some results that aren’t as refined as paying a bit extra for more personal 1 on 1 surgery and what not.

3500-4k, to me (correct me if I’m incorrect or being unrealistic) is a reasonable first surgery, to touch up the hair line and add some volume to the crowd, then have a potential secondary one to touch up the final areas of the crown and any additional areas, no? 

[manwithaplan]

On 1/30/2023 at 7:59 PM, Rafael Manelli said:

Strange. I’ve heard Bicer is great value for money. Hassan and Wong are much more expensive.

I should have said a bit more expensive compared to other options I’ve looked at in Turkey, my fault. But I’m aware those places who mass 5k+ graft surgery you at once for 2-5k is normally what you want to avoid 😂

[Rafael Manelli]

Ask Dr Bicer if she would consider doing a larger surgery over two days.

[manwithaplan]

1 minute ago, Rafael Manelli said:

Ask Dr Bicer if she would consider doing a larger surgery over two days.

From my understanding from our communication, she avoids doing a larger 4k + graft surgery to avoid donor depletion and preserve as much as possible for the best final results. If I’m able to get a final estimation and eventually consult with her 1 on 1, it’s always a question I can ask though. I’m interested to see what her thoughts would be. 

[Rafael Manelli]

5k over two surgeries would deplete the donor just as much as 5k in one surgery. This makes no sense. You deplete the donor by the number of grafts you extract. If you extract 5k you deplete it by 5k. That's how all transplants work. Fair enough if you want to save some for later, if you continue to lose hair. But if you've already lost it and you want the grafts now, I see little downside to just moving as much as possible in one go. 

Have you considered FUT? 

[A_4_Archan]

19 minutes ago, manwithaplan said:

Hey, thanks for the comment. I agree, I’ve been in contact w Bicer and Dr. Yamun. Both were professional in the feedback I gave from pictures and videos. Both said I’d need more that 3500 grafts (not surprising). I’d say in total, I’d need 5000ish grafts to get a full transformation I’m happy with. Bicer, I know, doesn’t go above 3500-4000 ish per surgery while Yamun can go 4-5k per surgery. Bicer is more expensive compared to Yamun, especially considering the package and fixed price Yamun has with everything included. 
 

However, I’m leaning more towards Bicer, as the feedback I got was realistic to a long term approach (for full transparency, I’m aware I’ll need 2 surgeries for a “full” transformation, just am aware how important the first one is for donor hair retention and fixing issues/not creating other issues.) I am awaiting a final estimated price from her as of Tuesday morning, via the consultant on WhatsApp. The before and after pics of her work are remarkable, and she seems to do a lot of the work herself where Yamun, from what I seen, has more techs do the dirty work, which can lead to some results that aren’t as refined as paying a bit extra for more personal 1 on 1 surgery and what not.

3500-4k, to me (correct me if I’m incorrect or being unrealistic) is a reasonable first surgery, to touch up the hair line and add some volume to the crowd, then have a potential secondary one to touch up the final areas of the crown and any additional areas, no? 

You should consult eugnix as well..they are very good with large sessions while keeping the donor safe...

[manwithaplan]

16 minutes ago, Rafael Manelli said:

5k over two surgeries would deplete the donor just as much as 5k in one surgery. This makes no sense. You deplete the donor by the number of grafts you extract. If you extract 5k you deplete it by 5k. That's how all transplants work. Fair enough if you want to save some for later, if you continue to lose hair. But if you've already lost it and you want the grafts now, I see little downside to just moving as much as possible in one go. 

Have you considered FUT? 

Makes sense what you’re saying, there’s a lot of different things people say with what’s good / not good with large 4-6k graft surgeries and recommend not going above 4k ish grafts per surgery, so hard to gauge sometimes. I’ve never had a hair transplant (yet) so I can’t speak from experience, only those of others and recommendations. 
 

I haven’t thought too much into FUT because I’m not sure a scar would be something I’d want, but I’m not sure of the upsides compared to FUE. I’m much prefer FUE tbh , but would go FUT if it meant a much better result.

[manwithaplan]

10 minutes ago, Archan said:

You should consult eugnix as well..they are very good with large sessions while keeping the donor safe...

I’ll take a gander at them as well. Don’t know how I brushed over em.

[Rafael Manelli]

FUT can give you more grafts overall. If you truly want to maximise lifetime grafts, start with FUT and do FUE when you're stripped out (no more laxity for strip)

[A_4_Archan]

25 minutes ago, manwithaplan said:

I’ll take a gander at them as well. Don’t know how I brushed over em.

Yeh they produce excellent result for higher grade of baldness ...and did u consider fut or not?

Edited February 1, 2023 by Archan

[manwithaplan]

On 2/1/2023 at 2:42 PM, Archan said:

Yeh they produce excellent result for higher grade of baldness ...and did u consider fut or not?

Have not but will consider - I am in contact w Eugenix and am awaiting a final estimation of cost / hair grafts needed for the transplant. I see they offer great results for higher NW cases.

Bicer is a great option and am highly considering her, but availability isn’t until Jan/Feb of 2024. Im interested in seeing what Eugenix has to say back, as my current 2 final places I’m considering are Bicer / Eugenix.

Edited February 6, 2023 by manwithaplan