Summary
Turkey has become a popular destination for hair transplant procedures, drawing international patients due to lower costs and packaged travel deals. Many people are traveling to Istanbul for these procedures, creating significant economic benefits for the country. However, concerns have arisen about unlicensed clinics and potential risks associated with the surgeries.
Key Facts
- Istanbul, Turkey, is a major hub for hair transplants, attracting international patients.
- The Smile Hair Clinic, opened in 2018, treats about 500 patients yearly, with many from the United States.
- Patients choose Turkey for lower costs; a procedure might cost $3,400 there versus an average of $13,000 in the U.S.
- In 2022, about 1 million people traveled to Turkey for hair transplants, generating approximately $2 billion.
- The Turkish Health Tourism Association reports 2 million medical tourists in 2024, bringing in close to $3 billion.
- Concerns exist about "black market clinics" and potential risks like infections, improper procedures, and unlicensed practitioners.
- The Turkish Health Ministry has promised stricter oversight and more clinic inspections.
- Medical experts warn of risks and the importance of medical oversight when using hair transplant-related medications.
