A full, defined beard can completely change your look. It adds structure to your face, boosts confidence, and gives you that sharp, masculine edge. But not everyone can grow the beard they want. That’s where a beard transplant comes in.
In the UK, beard transplants cost £3,000–£8,000, depending on how many grafts you need, the technique used, your surgeon’s expertise, and the clinic’s location. Whether you have patchy growth or no facial hair at all, a beard transplant can help you get the glorious beard you’ve always wanted.
What Is a Beard Transplant?
A beard transplant, aka facial hair transplant, is a procedure that moves hair from one part of your body, usually the back of your scalp, to your face. It’s typically done using one of two methods: FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation). The goal is to create a fuller, natural-looking beard that grows just like regular facial hair. Once the transplanted hairs take root, you can shave, trim, and style them however you like.
How Does a Beard Transplant Procedure Work?
A beard transplant involves harvesting hair from a donor area, typically the back or sides of your scalp, where hair growth is thick and permanent.
FUE involves extracting individual hair follicles using a small punch tool. It’s minimally invasive and leaves tiny, barely visible dot scars in the donor zone. FUT involves removing a thin strip of scalp from the donor area, then dissecting it into individual follicular units under a microscope. This allows for more grafts in one session but leaves a thin linear scar.
Once the grafts are prepared, the surgeon creates small incisions in the beard area, carefully placing each follicle to follow the natural growth pattern. The angle, direction, and density must all match the way facial hair naturally grows.
The entire procedure can take 4 to 8 hours, depending on the number of grafts. You’ll go home the same day, and recovery is typically mild, with most people returning to work within a few days.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Beard Transplant in the UK?
Beard transplant costs in the UK typically range from £3,000 to £8,000. The exact price depends on several factors: the number of grafts needed, the technique used, the experience of the surgeon, and the clinic’s location.
A full beard restoration that requires 2,000+ grafts will be on the higher end of that range, while smaller procedures for patchy areas may cost less. Some clinics offer financing options or payment plans to make the procedure more accessible. Always choose a clinic based on expertise and reputation, not just price.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Beard Transplants
Number of Grafts
The total cost of a beard transplant depends heavily on how many grafts you need. If you’re just filling in patchy spots on your cheeks or mustache, you might only need 500–1,000 grafts. But if you want a full beard reconstruction, expect to need 2,000–2,500 grafts. Most UK clinics charge per graft, usually between £2 to £5 per graft, so knowing your graft estimate early on helps you plan financially.
Technique Used
FUE is more commonly used for beard transplants, but it usually costs more because it takes more time. Each follicular unit is harvested one at a time, which gives FUE better precision and minimal scarring. On the other hand, FUT involves removing a strip of scalp, which can yield more grafts in one session but leaves a linear scar.
Surgeon’s Experience
A more experienced surgeon will charge higher fees, but that usually comes with a higher level of precision and artistry. Beard design is all about angles, direction, density, and symmetry—things that only a seasoned hair transplant surgeon will get right.
Look for credentials, patient reviews, and before-and-after photos to assess a surgeon’s work. Choosing the cheapest provider can cost more in the long run if you end up needing a revision.
Clinic Location
London-based clinics often have higher price tags due to rent and overhead costs. But high cost doesn’t always equal better results. Some excellent surgeons operate outside major cities and may offer the same quality at lower rates. Don’t be afraid to travel for the right provider; it’s your face, after all.
Aftercare and Additional Services
Ask what’s included in your quote. Some clinics include consultations, aftercare kits, medications, and follow-up appointments in the base price. Others may add them as extras. Some patients also opt for PRP therapy after surgery to boost healing and improve graft survival. These add-ons can increase your total cost, but may be worth it for long-term results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Beard Transplant?
You’re likely a good candidate if you:
- Have patchy or thin facial hair growth
- Can’t grow a beard due to genetics or scarring
- Have realistic expectations about results
- Are in good overall health
- Have a strong donor area (typically the back or sides of the scalp)
- Aren’t prone to keloid scarring or poor wound healing
- Are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking during recovery
- Want permanent, natural-looking facial hair growth
Where to Get a Beard Transplant in the UK
Beard transplants aren’t like scalp hair transplants. The angles, direction, and spacing of facial hair are much more visible. If the grafts aren’t placed just right, even the untrained eye will notice. That’s why it’s important to choose someone who specializes in facial hair and understands how to make your beard look natural, not just full.
If you’re in the UK, Dr. Ted Hair Transplants in Cardiff is a great choice. Dr. Ted is known for creating natural-looking beards with careful graft placement, proper angle control, and minimal scarring. You’ll also benefit from faster healing times and a clinic that takes your goals seriously. If you want a beard that looks like it’s always been yours, Dr. Ted can help you get there.
Call us to schedule your consultation today. We serve patients in and around Cardiff, UK, including Barry, Swansea, Newport, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Worcester, Bristol, Bath, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a beard transplant leave scars?
Yes, but they’re minimal, especially with FUE. You may have tiny dot scars in the donor area, but they’re barely visible, even with short hair. FUT leaves a thin linear scar, which can be hidden if you wear your hair longer.
Can you shave a beard transplant?
Yes. Once healed, your transplanted beard hair grows just like natural facial hair. You can shave, trim, or style it however you want.
How much does a full beard transplant cost?
A full beard transplant in the UK usually costs between £3,000 and £8,000. The price depends on how many grafts you need, the technique used, and the clinic. Most people need 2,000 to 3,000 grafts for full coverage. You’ll get the exact cost during your consultation.
Are beard transplants permanent?
Yes. The transplanted hair is taken from areas that are genetically resistant to hair loss. Once it grows in, it stays for good, just like your natural beard would.
How many grafts do I need?
It depends on your goals. Filling in patches might take 500–1,000 grafts. A full beard restoration usually needs 2,000–2,500 grafts. Your surgeon will give you a detailed estimate during your consultation.