Hello Friends,
After a few years of research on hair transplant and specific medicines, I’ve had my first HT at Asuman Hair on 12 Feb 2025 (Pendik Hospital).
Travelled from UK, so my perspective might be slightly different to most on this forum as a foreigner. Hair loss runs in the family, from father to brothers (all NW 5-6 and beyond), I experienced loss from age 17 onwards. Wore hair systems for 5 years prior to HT.
Total grafts based on WhatsApp conversation prior to op was 4000-4500, although not sure on the exact figure as not shared by them nor did I ask.
My focus was front area and new hair line. They planted some in the crown/middle, this was not discussed/agreed prior to surgery, I only discovered after the operation but I’m not overly fussed about this, only concern I had on this approach is potential “over harvesting” in a single session. I plan to have 2nd HT next year for the crown/middle area, with use of some beard + donor area. And if donor allows, reduce hairline by 1cm (only if that is an option based on donor availability) without compromising density on main head areas.
General observations from Asuman (no use of machines or tools), back of head donor area is healthy, both sides have limited availability which aligns with my own observations and of other clinics during my research.
Medicines 2 months prior to HT:
Topical minoxidil (solution) twice daily, I plan to reduce to once daily after 1 year. Stopped a week before HT, will resume 20 days after. (Asuman said after 12 days is fine but I want to play it safe).
Oral Finasteride, once daily, will use indefinitely. Not noticed any symptoms to date. Stopped a day before, resume 5 days after. They said I don’t need to stop at all, but I made the decision based on own research around this medicine and various doctor’s opinions.
Vichy purple (daily) and green (every 3 days) shampoo. Will resume once all scabs have fallen out (so day 10+).
Evocapil biotin tablets, twice daily.
Now to the post-HT:
I’m on general temporary medicines to relieve pain and prevent infections, not going into detail here but reach out if you want to know anything specific.
Had my bandage removed and first wash (Day 1) at the clinic and Fito cream applied on donor area. So far, all good no signs of infection, pimples or major pain. Swelling has started towards the forehead and working down towards face and I’m not wearing any headbands, it was not recommended.
See attached Day 0, will share Day 1 & before photos separately.
Keen to hear your views on:
How is my donor area, is it over harvested?
Does the front of my head and hair line look dense and natural?
Is the hair line too high?
