Red Flags: How to Choose a Safe Hair Transplant Clinic

The Rise of the "Hair Mill"

With the global demand for hair transplants skyrocketing, a dangerous parallel market has emerged. So-called "hair mills" or black-market clinics prioritize volume over patient safety. In these places, unlicensed technicians perform multiple surgeries a day with little to no supervision from an actual doctor. Choosing the wrong clinic can lead to disastrous, irreversible results, such as a depleted donor area or severe infections.

Key Red Flags to Watch Out For

• The "Unlimited Grafts" Promise: If a clinic promises to extract 6,000 or 7,000 grafts in a single session for a flat fee, run away. This is medically reckless and guarantees overharvesting, leaving the back of your head scarred and patchy.
• No Doctor Involvement: Ask explicitly: "Who is doing the incisions/channel opening?" If the answer is "our experienced team" rather than a named doctor, it is a massive red flag.
• Stock Before/After Photos: Always verify that the before-and-after photos belong to the specific clinic and doctor, not generic images bought online. Look for high-resolution videos, not just photos.

What Makes a Good Clinic?

A reputable clinic limits surgeries to 1 or 2 patients a day per doctor. They are transparent about the realistic results based on your donor area. They conduct proper medical evaluations before surgery, including blood tests and allergy screenings. Always check their international accreditations, such as ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery) or JCI (Joint Commission International) certification.