I couldn't afford a $13,000 hair transplant in the US. So I flew to Turkey and I love the results.

Nicole Ethridge before and after her hair transplant.

Courtesy of Nicole Ethridge Nicole Ethridge's hair started falling out after the birth of her daughter in 2007.

She was self-conscious and wore wigs to disguise the alopecia.

The mom flew to Turkey for a hair transplant, regaining her confidence before her wedding next year.

This story is based on an interview with Nicole Ethridge, 39, a Southern Marylander who works in finance and is also an influencer.

It has been edited for length and clarity.

My hair had always been thin, but I first noticed it coming out soon after the birth of my daughter, now 19.

It was mainly at the front, which made it noticeable.

I was self-conscious and particularly hated going to hairdressing salons , where it was impossible to hide the problem.

The dermatologist diagnosed me with traction alopecia , sometimes caused by tight hairstyles and other things that pull on your hair.

I started wearing wigs I started wearing wigs that mimic your hairline.

They were expensive, ranging from $300 to $700, but they don't last forever.

I'd go through as many as nine a year.

Ethridge was self-conscious about her hair, but is delighted it has grown back.