UK doctors issue warning on hair transplant abroad

UK clinic warns that British men in search of cheap hair transplants are putting themselves at risk by visiting unlicensed clinics abroad.

According to a UK clinic, British men in search of cheap hair transplants are putting themselves at risk by visiting unlicensed clinics abroad. These cut-price producers see men often requiring further surgery to repair the damage on return to the UK. Some go to India but the vast majority go to Turkey.

Boasting 500 transplant clinics across the country, Turkey has become a popular choice for hair transplant procedures. But with 60% of clinics believed to be operating illegally, doctors are warning of the effects visiting an unlicensed surgeon can have.

Lured in by cheap deals on surgery, patients are often given no aftercare or vital medication needed to aid the success of a hair transplant.

Dr Edward Ball, from The Maitland Clinic warns: “Medical tourism is not new, but what I find so shocking is the number of poor transplants being carried out by reckless and unqualified surgeons. The results of a hair transplant stay with you for the rest of your life. When done well, this can give a huge boost to confidence and self-esteem. However, we have seen patients who are devastated by the unnatural looking results from their decision to accept a low cost offer overseas. If you want to consider a hair transplant, my advice would always be to do your homework, research your surgeon and make sure you meet them face to face well in advance of the procedure. Ask to speak to any of their previous patients who have had the same procedure, and whether at home or abroad make sure you have a comprehensive aftercare plan.”