Compare the treatment plan first

Ask each clinic to explain the cause of your hair loss, the donor hair available and the area it proposes to treat. A suggested graft number should follow that assessment. If two clinics recommend very different numbers, ask how each reached its estimate.

Get the surgeon’s name and clarify who performs the extraction, recipient-site work and implantation. Photographs of a clinic or a consultation with an adviser do not establish who will perform your operation.

Check the provider and procedure location

Verify the named clinician’s registration and the treatment provider’s details with the relevant regulator for that country. Match the address on the registration information to the actual place where surgery is planned.

Compare each provider on its own evidence. Neither a UK address nor treatment abroad guarantees a particular result or standard of care.

Compare the complete cost

Ask for the procedure price, inclusions and terms in writing. Add travel, accommodation, time away from work and any later visits that may be needed. Check whether a quoted package includes clinical reviews or only transport and hotel arrangements.

Ask how a changed treatment plan would affect the price and what happens if surgery is postponed or cancelled. Do not compare package totals until you know what each one covers.

Plan follow-up before travelling

Find out who will assess a concern once you are home. Ask whether you would need to travel back, how quickly a clinician can respond and who pays for additional appointments or treatment.

The NHS advice on cosmetic surgery abroad covers practical checks around travel and aftercare. Confirm travel-insurance cover directly with the insurer rather than assuming planned treatment and its complications are included.

Allow time for the decision

Read the proposed procedure, risks, limitations and consent information before committing. Ask for an explanation in a language you understand and enough time to consider it. A discounted date should not determine whether surgery is appropriate.

If you are considering assessment through our Cardiff team, the clinic locations page separates consultation addresses from surgical locations. Your appointment confirmation should state where you need to attend.

Dr Harpreet Kalra

Hair transplant surgeon and practising GP · GMC 7126076

About Dr Kalra

Questions and answers

Can the country alone tell me whether a clinic is suitable?

No. Check the particular surgeon, treatment location, proposed procedure and aftercare arrangements. Compare written plans rather than relying on a country label or package price.

What should I confirm about follow-up when travelling?

Ask who will assess you if there is a problem after you return, how you can contact them, and whether further visits or treatment would cost extra. Get the arrangements in writing before booking.

Will ordinary travel insurance cover planned surgery?

Do not assume it does. Ask the insurer specifically about travelling for treatment and complications connected with it, and read the policy terms before paying for travel or surgery.