Italian leader has hair transplant

ROME, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi admits he has had a hair transplant and says it makes him feel 25 years younger.

Berlusconi, 68, says his new hair has been growing marvelously and he recommends cosmetic surgery, which he also had around his eyes a year ago.

The Italian media had been speculating about his hair since August, when he appeared in a pirate-style bandana, the BBC said Friday.

"I am very happy to have subjected myself to such pain," he told reporters.

"í think this should be regarded as an example. I now feel 40-42 years old in all aspects of my life."