It used to be that eyebrow loss was something people quietly covered with pencils, powders, or microblading. Today, more people, especially women and even men are choosing a permanent, natural fix instead: eyebrow transplantation.
In Turkey, that choice is easier than ever. Clinics in Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir now perform thousands of eyebrow transplants every year, using modern DHI and FUE techniques that restore real hair growth where cosmetics can’t.
At Istanbeautiful, we’ve visited several of the top clinics across Istanbul to see how the process works in practice from consultation and graft planning to healing and final results. And our guide shows everything you need to know: costs, techniques, recovery timelines, and expert insights to help you make a confident, informed decision.
In A Nutshell: Eyebrow Transplant in Turkey
- Expect to pay $1,800–$2,800, depending on the clinic, technique (DHI or FUE), and number of grafts.
- DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is the most precise choice for natural arches and dense results.
- Most travelers return to work in 2–3 days; full results appear in 9–12 months.
- Choose Ministry of Health-licensed and ISHRS-certified clinics for surgeon-led procedures.
- Permanent growth using your own follicles, not pigments like in microblading.
- Most Istanbul clinics include hotel, transfers, and aftercare in the treatment cost.
- Best for those with thinning or missing brows; not ideal for active autoimmune or hormonal issues.
An eyebrow transplant in Turkey typically costs between $1,800 and $2,800 in 2025, depending on the method (DHI or FUE) and the number of grafts needed per brow. Most Istanbul clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering the operation, 3–4 nights of hotel stay, airport transfers, post-op care, and PRP therapy.
The DHI technique that is performed using a Choi implanter pen is preferred for women and anyone seeking precise angle control, natural arch symmetry, and minimal downtime. Recovery takes about 5–7 days, and new hairs begin to grow within 3–4 months, with full results visible by 9–12 months.
According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and USHAŞ 2025 data, Turkey remains one of the top global destinations for eyebrow restoration, attracting patients for its expert surgeons, safety standards, and cost transparency.
Istanbeautiful Team Insight:
“Most travelers combine their eyebrow transplant trip with a few relaxing days in Istanbul. it’s a short recovery, but a long-lasting confidence boost.”
What Is an Eyebrow Transplant & How It Works
An eyebrow transplant is a delicate cosmetic surgery that moves healthy hair follicles — usually from the back of your scalp to sparse or missing areas of your brows. The goal isn’t just to add volume; it’s to restore expression, symmetry, and softness that artificial methods can’t fully mimic.
Unlike microblading or tattoos, transplanted eyebrow hairs grow naturally and can be trimmed or shaped just like normal hair. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and depending on the technique, it usually takes 3–5 hours.
Step-by-Step Process
Consultation & Design
The surgeon examines facial proportions, bone structure, and existing brow shape to design a natural arch that complements your features. Some clinics use digital mapping tools to visualize the final result before surgery.
Donor Area Preparation
Hair follicles are harvested from the back of the scalp — an area where hair is genetically resistant to shedding.
Extraction (FUE or DHI Method)
In FUE, follicles are extracted manually or using a micro motor before being implanted into micro-channels on the brow. In DHI, each follicle is directly implanted using a Choi implanter pen, allowing real-time control over the angle, depth, and direction that is very important for mimicking natural brow growth.
Implantation & Final Shaping
The surgeon places follicles one by one, aligning each at a 10–15° angle to create a soft, feathered look. The average eyebrow transplant uses 200–400 grafts per brow, depending on thickness goals.
According to PubMed research (Sethi & Bansal, 2013), the DHI method minimizes graft trauma and improves survival rates by up to 15%, which is especially valuable for fine, thin brow hairs.
The StatPearls (Zito & Raggio, 2024) review confirms similar success rates, with 95–98% graft survival in controlled conditions.
Patients are awake throughout, often chatting with the team or listening to music. Once done, a light saline dressing protects the area, and recovery begins immediately.
DHI vs FUE for Eyebrows: Which Technique Works Better?
When it comes to eyebrow transplants, both FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) achieve excellent, natural-looking results. The real question isn’t which one is “better”, but which one suits your specific brow goals.
FUE Eyebrow Transplant: The Traditional, Reliable Choice
In FUE, individual follicles are extracted from the donor area, stored in a nutrient solution, and then placed into tiny channels opened in the brow region. It’s efficient, affordable, and still the gold standard in most transplant surgeries worldwide.
According to StatPearls (Zito & Raggio, 2024), FUE remains one of the safest and most consistent techniques, offering a graft survival rate of around 94–96% when performed under sterile conditions. It’s ideal for covering larger or more symmetrical brow gaps.
However, because FUE requires creating small incisions before implantation, it demands precise control to ensure the right angle, direction, and depth — factors that matter most for fine eyebrow hairs.
DHI Eyebrow Transplant: The Precision Upgrade
DHI is a modified version of FUE that skips the channel-opening step. Instead, each follicle is implanted directly using a Choi implanter pen. This allows the surgeon to control every millimeter of the placement in real time — angle, curl, and orientation.
That’s particularly important for female patients, where eyebrow patterns often need softer gradients and curved edges. PubMed studies (Sethi & Bansal, 2013) show that DHI reduces graft handling time by 40%, improving follicle survival and healing speed.
Dr. Gökhan Bilgin (Smile Hair Clinic) notes,
“For eyebrows, we almost always recommend DHI. The Choi pen lets us align every hair naturally, just like an artist drawing strokes on canvas.”
FUE vs DHI for Eyebrows: Quick Comparison
Feature | FUE | DHI |
---|---|---|
Incision method | Channels opened before implantation | Direct placement via implanter pen |
Angle control | Moderate | High precision |
Healing time | 7–10 days | 5–7 days |
Graft survival rate | 94–96% | 96–98% |
Ideal for | Larger or symmetrical gaps | Shaping, curves, and fine detail |
Cost (Turkey 2025) | $1,800–$2,300 | $2,200–$2,800 |
Both are excellent. But for most patients seeking natural arches and quick recovery, DHI tends to deliver finer detail, especially when done in licensed Istanbul clinics following ISHRS and Ministry of Health protocols.
Istanbeautiful Team Insight:
“The clinics we visited that specialize in DHI achieved smoother, feathered results with less swelling, that is a clear advantage for eyebrow restoration.”
Who Is a Good Candidate? Who Should Wait?
Eyebrow transplantation isn’t for everyone, at least, not right away. The best outcomes come from knowing whether your current condition and expectations align with what surgery can truly deliver.
You’re a Good Candidate If…
- Your brows have thinned or disappeared from overplucking, injury, scarring, or natural aging.
- You have a stable donor area at the back of your scalp with healthy follicles suitable for transplantation.
- Your overall health is stable, with no uncontrolled medical conditions (like diabetes or thyroid imbalance).
- You understand the process that final results take up to 12 months and require trimming and shaping.
- You’re seeking permanent, natural growth, not a temporary cosmetic fix.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and StatPearls (Zito & Raggio, 2024), patients with strong donor density and realistic goals have 95%+ satisfaction rates when treated in certified clinics.
You Should Wait If…
- You have active alopecia areata or autoimmune-related hair loss (transplants won’t survive until the condition stabilizes).
- You’re currently experiencing stress-induced shedding (telogen effluvium), this often reverses naturally.
- You’ve had recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Doctors recommend waiting at least 12 months after treatment.
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding, since hormonal shifts can temporarily affect follicle strength.
- You’re considering microblading removal or have scar tissue that hasn’t healed fully.
If you’re unsure, many Istanbul clinics offer free online consultations. You can send photos, discuss expectations, and receive a medical opinion before booking your trip to Turkey that is a simple step that ensures your investment pays off in confidence, not regret.
Cost of Eyebrow Transplant in Turkey
Right off the bat: you’ll often see eyebrow transplant prices in Turkey between $1,800 and $2,800, all-inclusive forms (procedure + hotel + transfers) in Istanbul. That’s significantly lower than many Western countries. For example, one source lists the average at around €1,900 in Turkey vs €4,690 in the UK.
What drives the price and what’s included?
When you see a quote like $1,800 to $2,500, here’s what’s usually bundled:
- Surgeon’s fees (consultation + operation)
- The eyebrow transplant procedure (often 150-350 grafts)
- Local anaesthesia and standard after-care medication
- 2–4 nights hotel stay (often 3/4 stars) in Istanbul
- Airport/hotel/clinic transfers
- Follow-up check-up and instructions
Some clinics quote per-root pricing, others a flat session cost. For example, at one Istanbul clinic the quoted “average” is $2,000-$2,800 for an eyebrow transplant. Another lists packages from $1,795 to $2,564.
What makes prices vary?
- Technique used (DHI tends to cost more than basic FUE)
- Surgeon involvement vs technician-heavy steps
- Number of grafts (though eyebrow cases are low graft count compared to scalp)
- Hotel category, transfers, translation services
- Clinic reputation, surgeon credentials, and patient reviews
Sample Budget Breakdown
- Entry range: ~$1,700-$2,000 — simple session, standard hotel, basic package.
- Mid-range: ~$2,200-$2,800 — surgeon-led, fine technique, above standard hotel, smaller patient load.
- Premium / DHI or special follow-up: ~$3,000+ — very surgeon-focused, luxury accommodation, VIP transfers, extended after-care.
Istanbeautiful Note:
If a clinic quotes under ~$1,500 for a full eyebrow transplant package, ask “what’s missing?” Either hotel/transfer is excluded or surgeon time is minimal.
Travel & Stay: What to plan
Since the eyebrow area is small and recovery quick:
- Arrival Day 0, procedure Day 1, check-up Day 2 or 3, depart Day 3–4 often works well.
- Ensure hotel stay covers at least the first night post-op (when you’ll rest and avoid sun/exertion).
- Flights vary by origin; consider total trip cost when comparing to home country pricing.
Why Turkey offers such value
- High procedure volumes reduce cost per case.
- Strong surgeon training and medical infrastructure in Istanbul supports international patients.
- Travel packages optimised for overseas clients (visa support, language, after-care).
“Price Check” Questions to Ask Your Clinic
- Does the quote include hotel nights, airport transfers, and follow-up check-ups?
- Who performs the extraction and implantation—the surgeon or technicians?
- What is the graft count estimate for my case, and what happens if that changes?
- Are after-care medications and required services (e.g., shampoo kit) included?
- Are there any hidden or optional costs (extra nights, translator, extra check-ups)?
Recovery Timeline & Aftercare Tips for Eyebrow Transplant
The recovery process after an eyebrow transplant in Turkey is short, but it still deserves patience and care. Because the area is small and vascular, it heals quickly, yet every step affects the final look.
What the Recovery Looks Like
Days 1–3
You’ll notice mild redness, tenderness, and perhaps light swelling around the brows. Most clinics give saline spray and antibiotic ointment to keep the area clean. Sleeping slightly elevated and avoiding face washing for the first 48 hours helps reduce swelling.
Days 4–7
Tiny scabs form around each follicle. These are normal and should be left alone. At this stage, gentle washing begins usually under clinic guidance. Makeup and skincare around the brows are still off-limits.
Days 8–14
Scabs fall off naturally. Redness fades. You can return to work or social activities comfortably. If your clinic provides PRP or aftercare serum, this is when it’s typically applied to stimulate healing.
Weeks 3–4
The “shedding phase” starts, and transplanted hairs fall to make space for new ones. It can feel discouraging, but it’s completely expected.
Months 3–6
New growth begins. Tiny, fine hairs emerge, gradually thickening over time.
Months 9–12
Full shape, density, and softness become visible. Most patients trim or shape their brows like normal hair by this stage.
According to Healthline and PubMed (Kerure & Patwardhan, 2018), over 95% of grafts survive long term when proper aftercare is followed, especially avoiding trauma, scratching, or harsh cosmetics in the first two weeks.
Aftercare Tips
- Clean gently with clinic-approved shampoo or saline solution.
- Avoid makeup, heavy creams, or tanning for at least 10 days.
- Stay out of direct sunlight for two weeks.
- Skip gym workouts and sweating for 7–10 days.
- Don’t pluck or trim new hairs until at least three months post-op.
Recovery isn’t just physical. It’s that slow, exciting realization that your reflection is coming back to life, strand by strand.
Risks, Complications & How Turkish Clinics Manage Them Safely
Every surgical procedure carries some level of risk, and eyebrow transplants are no exception. The difference lies in how those risks are managed, and in Turkey’s top clinics, prevention is built into every step.
Common, Short-Term Side Effects
- Mild redness and swelling around the brows for 2–3 days
- Tiny scabs that fall naturally within a week
- Temporary itching or tightness as new follicles settle
- “Shock shedding” around week 3–4
According to StatPearls (Zito & Raggio, 2024) and Healthline, these reactions are typical and short-lived. Most patients return to work within four days, with no visible signs of surgery after two weeks.
Rare Complications (and How Clinics Prevent Them)
Infection or Folliculitis
Extremely uncommon when treated in Ministry of Health–licensed facilities. Turkish clinics use single-use Choi pens, sterile field prep, and antibiotic protocols to keep rates under 1%, based on EHRS data.
Uneven Growth or Angle Mismatch
Happens if follicles aren’t implanted with proper alignment. The DHI technique, supported by PubMed studies (Sethi & Bansal, 2013), helps minimize this by allowing precise angle control.
Overharvesting from the Donor Area
A risk mainly in unregulated or technician-led clinics. ISHRS urges patients to confirm the surgeon’s direct involvement in extraction and implantation, a standard met by Istanbul’s top centers.
Allergic Reaction or Scarring
Very rare, but surgeons screen for allergies to local anesthesia or antiseptics during consultation. Scarring is almost nonexistent thanks to micro-punch tools under 0.7 mm in diameter.
Red Flags When Researching Clinics
- No visible Ministry of Health license number
- Aggressive marketing without surgeon names
- Promises of “unlimited grafts” or guaranteed density
- Prices far below the national average
When the surgery is done in a certified, surgeon-led facility, complication rates stay below 2%, which is lower than the global average for cosmetic procedures. That’s why Istanbul continues to lead not because it’s cheaper, but because it’s safer.
Eyebrow Transplant vs Microblading: Which One Lasts Longer?
Both eyebrow transplants and microblading promise fuller brows, but they’re not the same. One gives you permanent, natural growth; the other, a temporary illusion. Choosing between them depends on how long you want the results, and how real you want them to look up close.
What Microblading Offers
Microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo technique. A trained artist uses a fine blade to create hair-like strokes on the skin. It looks convincing at first but fades over time as pigment breaks down.
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Cost in Turkey: Around $200–$400
- Maintenance: Requires annual touch-ups
- Ideal for: Those with full brows who just want definition
Microblading doesn’t involve real hair follicles, so there’s no texture, no regrowth, and limited flexibility in shaping.
What Eyebrow Transplant Offers
An eyebrow transplant, on the other hand, moves real hair follicles (usually from the back of your scalp) into your brow line. It’s a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia by a licensed medical doctor.
- Duration: Permanent
- Cost in Turkey: Around $1,500–$2,500
- Maintenance: Occasional trimming every 10–14 days
- Ideal for: Those with sparse or missing brows due to genetics, injury, or overplucking
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re after a short-term aesthetic boost, microblading works fine. But if you want real growth that follows your natural hair cycle, an eyebrow transplant is the smarter, long-term choice.
How to Choose the Best Eyebrow Transplant Clinic in Turkey
The right clinic makes all the difference not just for results, but for your confidence during the process. Turkey has hundreds of centers offering eyebrow transplants, but only a fraction meet international medical standards.
Check Surgeon Credentials and Involvement
This should be your first step. Ask who will actually perform the extraction and implantation. In reputable clinics, the surgeon personally designs the eyebrow shape, oversees graft harvesting, and supervises every implantation.
Cross-check credentials through the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) and the European Hair Restoration Society (EHRS) directories. Both maintain verified lists of surgeons who follow ethical, hands-on practice standards.
Confirm Clinic Licensing
Every medical aesthetic center in Turkey must be approved by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health. Licensed clinics are required to maintain full sterilization protocols, emergency preparedness, and anesthesia compliance. You can ask to see the clinic’s license certificate or verify its registration number online.
Look at Patient Results and Follow-Up Care
Before-and-after galleries tell part of the story, but the real proof lies in follow-up results after 9–12 months. Look for authentic, high-resolution photos with consistent lighting.
Top-rated clinics often include post-op check-ins, PRP support, and remote follow-ups for international patients.
According to USHAŞ (International Health Services Inc.), clinics offering structured follow-up care report 20% higher satisfaction rates compared to those that don’t.
Compare Packages, Not Just Prices
All-inclusive eyebrow transplant packages in Turkey usually cover:
- Pre-op consultation and blood tests
- Local anesthesia
- DHI or FUE implantation
- Hotel accommodation (3–4 nights)
- Airport transfers
- Aftercare kit and follow-up
Average total cost ranges between $1,500–$2,500, depending on the number of grafts and the clinic’s reputation.
Patient Feedback & Reviews
Platforms like Google, RealSelf, and Trustpilot reveal far more than price lists. Look for reviews mentioning realistic timelines, surgeon involvement, and communication quality — not just final results.
The best eyebrow transplant clinics in Istanbul consistently score between 4.8 and 4.9 stars across thousands of reviews, reflecting strong international trust.
Traveling to Turkey for Eyebrow Transplant
Planning an eyebrow transplant in Turkey is a mix of medical precision and cultural discovery. Istanbul, with its modern clinics and centuries-old charm, welcomes thousands of visitors each year for both reasons, treatment and travel.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Most clinics in Istanbul arrange airport transfers, hotel stays, and translator assistance, making your trip smooth from the start. You’ll usually spend 3–5 days in the city — consultation on day one, procedure the next, and light recovery for the remaining days. It’s the perfect rhythm for combining care and comfort.
Istanbeautiful Team Tip:
“Book a hotel near your clinic for convenience but choose one with quiet surroundings such as Kadıköy, Nişantaşı, or Beşiktaş are ideal.”
Things to Do in Istanbul (Without Overexertion)
Since recovery after an eyebrow transplant is gentle, you can still explore at a calm pace:
- Take a Bosphorus cruise that is a gentle breeze, no effort, and perfect for the first recovery day.
- Visit the Galataport or Karaköy waterfront cafés having shaded outdoor areas and soft sunlight make ideal post-procedure spots.
- Enjoy a short walk through Sultanahmet and admire Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from the outside if you prefer to avoid crowds.
- Shop for skincare and organic serums at Grand Bazaar or İstinye Park that many clinics recommend Turkish-made products for aftercare.
Common Questions & Answers
How much does an eyebrow transplant cost in Turkey in 2025?
The average eyebrow transplant cost in Turkey ranges from $1,800 to $2,800. Prices vary depending on the method (DHI or FUE), clinic reputation, and graft quantity. Most Istanbul clinics include hotel stay, airport transfers, and aftercare in all-inclusive packages.
Is an eyebrow transplant permanent?
Yes. Since the procedure uses your own hair follicles, growth is natural and permanent. Once the transplanted hairs settle (usually within 9–12 months), they continue growing for life. You’ll just need occasional trimming, as scalp hairs grow slightly faster.
What is the recovery time after an eyebrow transplant?
Most patients resume remote work or light activity within 2–3 days. Mild redness and scabbing fade by day 7–10. Full recovery where swelling completely subsides and new growth begins, takes about 3–4 months.
Is DHI or FUE better for eyebrow transplant?
For eyebrows, DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is usually preferred because the Choi pen allows precise angle control, helping create a natural arch and direction. FUE works well for broader areas like scalp coverage.
Are eyebrow transplants safe in Turkey?
Yes, when done in Ministry of Health-licensed clinics by certified surgeons. According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), Turkey ranks among the top three safest and most experienced destinations for medical hair restoration.
How long before I see full eyebrow transplant results?
Visible growth starts around 3–4 months, with full density achieved between 9–12 months. PRP or exosome therapy can help speed up recovery and improve graft survival.
Can both men and women get eyebrow transplants?
Absolutely. Women usually seek symmetry and fullness; men aim to restore density without reshaping. The DHI method adapts easily to both preferences.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Minor redness, swelling, or scabbing are normal for the first week. In rare cases, temporary shock shedding or mild folliculitis can occur but resolves with proper aftercare. Choosing an experienced surgeon minimizes all complications.
Can I combine eyebrow transplant with other treatments in Turkey?
Yes. Many travelers combine it with PRP, mesotherapy, or even dental or cosmetic procedures, as recovery time is short. Clinics in Istanbul often organize combined medical-tourism packages.
When should I avoid an eyebrow transplant?
If you have active alopecia areata, ongoing chemotherapy, or uncontrolled hormonal conditions, it’s better to wait.