If you’re considering a beard transplant, you’ve found one of the most comprehensive guides.
A beard is often seen as a symbol of masculinity, and this isn’t a recent trend—beards have been popular and associated with the male image throughout history.
Though there was a period where a clean shave was the standard, beards have made a strong comeback, with men worldwide growing them again.
But what if you can’t grow a beard, or if yours is patchy or doesn’t grow well?
A beard transplant might be just what you’re looking for.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about beard transplants.
I’ll explain how a beard transplant works and share before and after results to show you what to expect.
But that’s not all.
You’ll also learn about the costs, recovery time, potential side effects, and what happens if a beard transplant doesn’t go as planned.
Before we get started, let me quickly introduce myself.
I’m James, the co-founder of Tecnifue International, one of Turkey’s top hair transplant clinics in Istanbul, Turkey.
Our clinic has helped people from all over the world with their hair and beard transplant needs.
I’ve been deeply involved in helping our patients, so I’ve gained a lot of insight into hair and beard transplants.
Now that you know a bit about me, let’s dive into our first topic, shall we?
How Does a Beard Transplant Work?
Before discussing the details of a beard transplant, it’s important to understand that the basic principle is the same as that of a hair transplant.
Essentially, we can choose from a few available methods.
Personally, I recommend the FUE or DHI methods over FUT, which I’m not a fan of. I’ve explained why in another blog titled “FUE vs. FUT: Expert Analysis and Opinion.“
If you’re curious about my reasoning, please check it out.
If you’re new to a hair transplant or want to better understand my approach, our blog section covers the most critical topics, including the different methods used in hair transplants.
Now, let’s get back to beard transplants.
The same methods used for hair transplants are applied here.
Let’s explore how the procedure works.
Consultation and Design
Like a hair transplant, the first step in a beard transplant is designing the new hairline.
The consultation involves several critical stages.
First, the donor area needs to be thoroughly examined.
Here’s something crucial: if you already have some facial hair, it’s essential to check if the donor’s hairs match well enough.
Beard hair and scalp hair have different structures by default.
However, if the beard hair is too different from the scalp hair, it could lead to an unnatural look.
In such cases, the surgeon may need to consider a different donor area to find hair that matches better.
Next comes the design of the beard.
We always aim for a natural-looking design, which we typically create for our patients.
During the consultation, you’ll also have the chance to ask questions about the procedure.
Once the new beard design is finalized, the surgeon will create a graft allocation plan for the recipient sites.
A graft allocation plan determines the number of grafts placed in each zone.
One more critical point: if the patient already has some facial hair, the medical team must carefully study the density of the existing hair.
Studying the existing beard hairs is crucial because the implantation needs to match the existing density for a natural result.
Extracting Grafts
The next step in the beard transplant process is extracting the hair grafts for the beard.
This is done in the same way as hair restoration.
The donor hair is taken from the donor area, usually the back of the head.
This stage typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the grafts needed for the beard transplant.
Channel Opening
After graft extraction, the focus shifts to channel opening at the recipient site.
During this stage, small incisions are made in the beard area to prepare for graft implantation.
The angle of the channel openings is crucial for achieving natural results.
Any existing facial hair can guide this angle.
If the patient had no facial hair before the transplant, the surgeon could determine the optimal angle for the best results.
The channel opening also plays a crucial role in determining the density of the beard, similar to how it works in hair transplants.
One important note: the channel opening direction differs from the channel angle.
The direction should align with the beard’s natural growth patterns to ensure a seamless look, blending the transplanted hairs with existing ones.
Implantation
The final stage is the implantation.
During this phase, the harvested grafts are manually implanted, one by one, into the pre-opened channels.
Depending on the number of grafts and the complexity of the implantation, this process can take up to 3 hours.
I’ve highlighted some aspects common to hair and beard transplants.
Much of what applies to a hair transplant also applies to a beard transplant, so I recommend checking out our other blog articles for a comprehensive understanding of hair restoration procedures.
By now, you should have a solid grasp of how a beard hair transplant works.
Let’s move on to our next topic: Beard Transplant Before and After Results.
Beard Transplant Before and After
Here are a few beard hair transplant results to give you an idea of how it looks.
What’s a good Beard Transplant Result
A good beard transplant result should look completely natural.
The transplanted hair must blend seamlessly with existing facial hair, creating a uniform appearance.
You want people to notice your beard, not the fact that it was
When it comes to a good beard transplant result, the key is making sure it looks completely natural.
You want your new beard to blend seamlessly with your existing facial hair so it looks like it belongs there.
Density plays a considerable role in this.
If the transplanted hair isn’t dense enough, it can look thin or patchy, which isn’t what you want.
The goal is to have the same thickness and fullness throughout, matching the natural growth patterns of your face.
When it’s done right, no one should be able to tell your beard was transplanted.
It should just look like you naturally grew it.
So, as you consider results, think about how well the hair blends in and whether it achieves that natural, full appearance you’re after.
Beard Transplant Cost
The cost of a beard transplant depends on the number of grafts needed.
In the USA, prices can start around $3,000 for a minor procedure with about 400 grafts.
If you’re looking at something more extensive, say 2,500 grafts, you could be looking at $10,000 or more.
The price varies based on the clinic, the surgeon’s experience, and the complexity of your case.
Beard Transplant Turkey
You’ve probably heard that Turkey is a hotspot for hair transplants, but did you know it’s also a top destination for beard transplants?
It’s not surprising since the same techniques used for hair transplants are applied to beards.
Turkey offers skilled surgeons and advanced methods, making it a great option if you’re considering a beard transplant.
And the best part?
The cost for a hair transplant in Turkey is often much lower than in other countries without compromising on quality.
So, if you’re considering getting a fuller beard, Turkey might be just the place for you.
Beard Transplant Cost in Turkey
It’s good to know that a beard transplant in Turkey often comes as a package deal, meaning you pay a fixed price for a maximum number of grafts.
A beard transplant in Turkey typically costs around $2,300 and can go up to $4,000 or more, depending on the clinic you choose.
The great news is that you can get a very attractive deal if you combine it with a hair transplant.
We call this a combo treatment, where hair and beard transplants are done on the same day.
This option is not only convenient but also cost-effective.
If you’re curious about the cost of our Beard Transplant package, check out our Cost & Packages Page to find out what a Beard Transplant costs at our clinic in Istanbul.
What’s next?
We’ll dive into the potential side effects of a beard transplant.
Beard Transplant Side Effects
When you’re considering a beard transplant, it’s essential to know about potential side effects.
While the procedure is generally safe, there are a few things you should be aware of.
Here are some possible side effects of a beard transplant:
Redness
First, you might notice some redness where the transplant was done.
This is completely normal and usually fades within two weeks days.
Sensitive skin
Your skin might also feel sensitive, especially around the donor and recipient areas.
This sensitivity should decrease as your skin heals.
Swelling
Swelling is another common side effect.
It often occurs around the cheeks and jawline but typically disappears within a week.
Tightness
Some people also experience a feeling of tightness in the skin, which can be a bit uncomfortable.
This happens because the skin adjusts to the new hair follicles and should improve as your skin recovers.
Numbness
You might feel numbness, particularly in the areas where the grafts were extracted and placed.
This is usually temporary and should resolve within a few weeks.
Scabs or crusting
As your beard starts to heal, you might notice scabs or crusting around the hair follicles.
This is just part of the healing process; the scabs will fall off naturally as your skin repairs itself.
Itching
Itching is another common side effect.
As your skin heals and the hair grows, you might feel some itchiness in the treated area.
Overall, these side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Most people find they subside within a few days to a few weeks.
Beard Transplant Recovery Time and Aftercare
The first day after your beard transplant will likely be the most challenging.
Your mouth and face might feel numb, making eating difficult.
It’s crucial to avoid any contact between your beard and objects, especially while you sleep.
Be sure to keep your beard from touching your pillow during the night.
By the next day, you’ll probably notice scabs forming.
This is a good sign; it’s part of the natural healing process.
The first few days are critical, so look for any signs of infection, such as a burning sensation, inflamed skin, or pus-filled sores.
When it comes to aftercare, there are some critical steps to follow in the days after your beard transplant:
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid touching your beard and the grafts. You should only touch the grafts during washing, and that’s safe as long as your hands are sanitized.
- Speaking of washing, make sure to wash your beard every day. It’s important not to rub the area while washing, as this could dislodge the grafts. Instead, use gentle dabs.
- Keep your beard clean throughout the day. As the scabs harden, you might be tempted to pick or remove them, but leaving them alone is crucial until the 9th day after the procedure. It’s ok if scabs fall off naturally, but don’t force them off with your hands.
Following these aftercare steps will help ensure your recovery goes smoothly and your new beard looks its best.
Shock Loss in Beard Transplants
Experiencing shock loss after a hair transplant is normal, usually occurring between 4 to 8 weeks post-op.
Interestingly, shock loss with a beard transplant is less common than with hair transplants.
From our experience, only about 20% of patients at our clinic experience shock loss after their beard transplant.
This means that 80% of people don’t go through this phase.
Let me explain what this means for you.
Those who avoid shock loss can enjoy steady hair growth from their transplanted beard without interruptions.
Once you’ve made it through the first 8-9 days and the scabs have fallen off, you’ve overcome the most challenging part of the process.
There are still some important post-op guidelines to follow, like avoiding exercise for 14-21 days and refraining from swimming for a month.
However, once the grafts are secure, careful follow-up is essential to ensure the best recovery.
Now, let’s move on to how long it takes for your new beard to develop and mature fully.
How Long Does It Take for a Beard Transplant to Fully Grow?
If you’re familiar with hair transplants, here’s some good news: a beard transplant develops much faster.
While hair transplants require time for full development, a beard transplant typically shows its final results by the 4th or 5th month.
This quicker development is due to the high blood flow in the face, which helps grafts establish blood vessel connections quickly, allowing the follicles to thrive and grow faster.
So far, we’ve covered a lot, but there’s one more critical topic to address: what happens when a beard transplant goes wrong?
It might not be the most fun subject, but since this is a complete guide, it’s important to include it.
Let’s dive into that next.
Beard Transplant Gone Wrong
If you’re thinking about a beard transplant, your goal is likely to enjoy a full, healthy beard.
But what happens if a beard transplant goes wrong?
Let’s explore four scenarios where a beard transplant might not meet expectations.
I’ll cover one subjective and three more objective reasons.
First Reason a Beard Transplant Can Go Wrong
The first reason is subjective and revolves around the patient’s expectations versus what the clinic or surgeon can realistically deliver.
The patient must communicate their expectations clearly and for the medical team to translate these into a treatment plan.
If the expectations aren’t achievable, this needs to be communicated to the patient from the start.
At our clinic, we call this patient education.
As experts, we have to inform patients honestly.
If a patient insists on unrealistic expectations and refuses to accept the expert’s guidance, it’s better not to proceed with the surgery.
Otherwise, the patient might feel the transplant has gone wrong if their expectations aren’t met.
Second Reason a Beard Transplant Can Go Wrong
The second reason a beard transplant can fail is the need for more density.
A full beard is often the goal, and density plays a key role in achieving that look.
Density depends on the number of grafts implanted and how closely the channels are opened to each other.
Think of it this way: the closer the channels, the more grafts per square centimeter, leading to a fuller beard.
If a transplant doesn’t provide the desired density, it can be considered unsuccessful.
By understanding these potential pitfalls, you can better navigate your beard transplant journey and ensure your expectations align with what’s achievable.
Third Reason a Beard Transplant Can Go Wrong
The third reason a beard transplant can go wrong is the way the channels are opened and the grafts are placed.
The result will look unnatural if the channels are opened in a line formation.
This also applies to hair transplants.
Think about someone you know with a beard.
Do you see any line formations in the growth when their beard is short?
Of course not, unless they’ve had a poorly done beard transplant.
The natural look is essential, and poor channel opening can ruin that.
Fourth Reason a Beard Transplant Can Go Wrong
The most obvious reason a beard transplant can fail is if the transplanted hair doesn’t grow.
This is a clear sign that something has gone wrong.
The reasons for this can vary and need to be examined case-by-case.
However, if you don’t see any significant beard growth two to three months after the transplant, it strongly indicates that the procedure was unsuccessful.
In such cases, it’s safe to say that the transplant has failed.
What Can You Do About a Beard Hair Transplant That Has Gone Wrong?
Correcting a beard hair transplant that hasn’t gone as planned depends on the specific issues causing the problem.
Let’s look at a few situations to help you understand your options.
Beard Transplant Correction After Necrosis
First, let me clarify that necrosis after a beard transplant is rare but not impossible.
The critical factor here is to ensure that the skin tissue affected by necrosis has healed properly.
To be sure, we always recommend a physical examination by a dermatologist.
The affected area can receive new implants if the skin has healed well.
Beard Transplant Correction in Case of Lack of Density
If your beard transplant lacks density, the solution is straightforward.
During a second transplant, additional grafts can be added to the areas that are too sparse.
This involves placing extra hair between the existing hairs to increase density.
It’s a relatively simple correction that can significantly improve the appearance.
Beard Transplant Correction in Case of Unnatural Channel Opening Pattern
Correcting an unnatural channel opening pattern requires more effort and skill from the surgeon.
This situation also tests the surgeon’s aesthetic correction abilities.
If the channels were opened in a line formation, the goal is to break this pattern by opening channels with slight irregularities.
This creates a more random graft placement, resulting in your desired natural look.
Beard Transplant Correction in Case of No Hair Growth
When dealing with cases of no hair growth after a beard transplant, proceeding cautiously before considering a second transplant is essential.
The first step is to understand why the initial transplant failed.
If the cause remains unknown, going ahead with another transplant could be risky, as there’s a chance it could fail as well.
For example, a second transplant might be a viable solution if the failure was due to malpractice.
However, if a skin condition is the cause, it’s crucial to treat the skin condition first before attempting another transplant.
There you have it.
I’ve covered the most critical aspects of beard transplants.
Below, I’ve also addressed some frequently asked questions from patients.
Let’s wrap things up with my final thoughts.
Final Word
When we started our hair transplant clinic in 2012, beard transplants were relatively unknown.
But in recent years, they’ve become increasingly popular.
Like hair transplants, it’s important to understand that the procedure is medical and aesthetic.
A beard transplant is a lifelong decision, and patients must grasp this fully.
That’s why researching and understanding the process before committing is so essential.
The technical expertise required for a successful beard transplant shouldn’t be underestimated.
It’s precise work with unique dynamics, so make sure you’re well-informed before proceeding.
Beard Transplant Consultation
If you’re considering a beard transplant and want to explore your options, we’re here to help.
We offer a complimentary beard consultation service.
Send us your pictures, and we’ll study your situation to provide personalized advice.
Our clinic has been helping patients with hair and beard transplants since 2012 in Istanbul, Turkey.
Reach out to us and discover what your options are.
FAQ Beard Transplant
I’ve shared some common questions and answers we often receive about beard transplants.
How long after a beard transplant can I shave?
We advise waiting 4-6 weeks before shaving.
This gives your skin the necessary time to recover.
However, there’s no standard rule for everyone.
Your skin might heal faster or slower than average, so it’s important to decide based on how it feels and looks.
The 4-6 week timeline is a general reference.
How long does a beard transplant take?
The duration of a beard transplant depends on the number of grafts needed.
The more grafts required, the longer the procedure will take.
On average, a beard transplant takes about 4-6 hours.
How risky is a beard transplant?
A beard transplant carries a low risk.
The risk involved in facial hair transplant procedures is minimal when pre-op tests are conducted, and the procedure is performed by experienced specialists.
Is a beard transplant successful?
You can expect a high success rate if you meet the eligibility criteria for a beard transplant.
The success rate can be as high as 100% when performed by a professional medical team experienced in beard transplants.
What is the best age for a beard transplant?
The ideal age for a beard transplant is personal, but 25 years is a good reference.
By this age, the facial structure has typically matured enough to undergo a beard transplant without issues.
How painful is a beard transplant?
The procedure itself isn’t painful since it’s done under local anesthesia.
However, the administration of the anesthesia can cause discomfort for a few minutes until it takes effect.
Does a beard transplant look natural?
A beard transplant will look natural if performed correctly.
I’ve discussed extensively what a natural result should look like.
When done with care by professional doctors, a beard transplant should be unnoticeable as anything other than your natural beard.
This is a common concern, and I’m happy to reassure you that the results can look completely natural.
Is 2000 Grafts Enough for a Beard?
First, it’s important to understand that 2,000 grafts are considered a high number for a hair transplant.
Whether this number is sufficient for a beard transplant depends on several factors:
- The quality of the donor area
- Whether the patient has any existing facial hair
- The size of the person’s facial area
However, in most cases, 2,000 grafts are substantial and should be enough for a successful beard transplant.
Do I Have to Shave My Head for a Beard Transplant?
Shaving your head is not required for a beard transplant.
The decision depends on your specific situation, including whether you have existing beard hair.
I usually recommend that patients shave their beards before the transplant.
Shaving provides the medical team with a clear surface to work on without interference from existing hair, which can improve the procedure’s effectiveness.
Are You Awake During a Beard Transplant?
Yes, you are fully awake during a beard transplant.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake and aware throughout the entire process.
Can a Beard Transplant Go Wrong?
As with any surgery, there’s a possibility that a beard transplant can go wrong.
I’ve covered this topic in more detail earlier, but knowing the risks involved is essential.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Beard Transplant?
You are a good candidate for a beard transplant if you have a patchy beard or no beard at all.
Additionally, a beard transplant can be considered if you have facial scars that you wish to cover, as it can effectively camouflage those areas.
