The advancement of medical technology, digital media, and transportation is encouraging people to seek medical procedures abroad. As a result, around 20 million people are engaging in medical tourism worldwide and the number continues to grow. One of the biggest chunks of the market belongs to the hair transplant sector. In fact, the hair transplant market size is set to increase by 5 times in 2026.What is prompting people to travel Turkey and India for hair transplants?The Reasons behind the growth of the medical tourism industry.
Popularized by celebrities, social media, and the normalization of cosmetic procedures, hair transplants are gaining traction all over the world. One of the hotspots for these procedures is Turkey which provides cutting-edge procedures at competitive prices. The great Medihair reviews of hair transplant clinics in Turkey are a clear indicator of the country’s excellent hair restoration market.
Factors Driving the Growth of Medical Tourism for Hair Transplants
- Affordability of Hair Transplant Services Abroad
According to a 2021 hair transplant study conducted by Medihair, 46% of patients were interested in traveling abroad for a hair transplant. This is largely due to the low cost of hair treatments in Turkey. Patients can save up to 50 to 65% in costs by getting hair transplants done in Turkey as compared to the US.
This huge price difference can be attributed to the following factors:
- Low labor costs in Turkey reduce the overall price of the procedures.
- Since the hair transplant sector brings in foreign exchange and tourism, the Turkish government backs it up with partial subsidies and other initiatives.
- Turkey produces medical equipment domestically which cuts down on import costs.
- Advanced Techniques & Brisk Pace of Innovation
Due to the brisk pace of innovation, countries like Turkey and India are rapidly advancing when it comes to hair transplant technology. Cutting-edge techniques such as FUE and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) are commonly available in Turkish clinics.
DHI is a state-of-the-art technique preferred by many patients due to its high success rate. Hair transplant clinics in Turkey are also incentivized to continuously improve their services due to the cutthroat competition in the region.
- Effective Digital Marketing Techniques
Hair transplant businesses in Turkey are way ahead in terms of their digital marketing strategies. With the smart use of online marketing tools and social media platforms, foreign clinics captivate a huge audience of young people. Many potential customers find the right clinic through in-depth reviews on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
Customers are further encouraged to avail services with the promise of all-inclusive packages. These packages often include free transportation, tickets, and accommodations for their stay in Turkey.
- Attractiveness As Tourism Spot
Visiting Turkey for a hair transplant is much like killing two birds with one stone. Apart from acquiring a full head of hair, patients are also excited at the prospect of exploring the rich Turkish culture.
How to Ensure Safe & Secure Hair Transplant Overseas
Getting your hair transplant done abroad can often feel like a leap of faith. However, with the right precautionary measures, you can ensure a safe and amiable experience. Here are some steps to follow before your hair transplant procedure abroad:
- Ensure that your hair transplant clinic is accredited.
- Read patient reviews online.
- Confirm your doctor’s qualifications and reputation.
- Closely follow the right recovery guidelines.
Way Forward
Due to the de-stigmatization of cosmetic surgeries, especially for men, more and more people are choosing to get a hair transplant. Due to competitive costs, promising tourism potential, and technological advancement, Turkey will continue to attract patients from all over the world. Other countries like India, UK, and Mexico are following in the same footsteps.
This trend will only continue to increase in the coming years, leading to the exponential growth of medical tourism as a whole.
