no, not that difficult to mortise the hinge in, just takes a jig and a router with carbide bit, after the hinge "hole" is created. however, a simplistic installation will make it more accessible to the masses using "hand" tools.
also, instead of recessing the hinge plate it could be "covered" with a riser overlay veneer (as done on mohawks). this method insures that narrow throated handles don't lose any integrity/strength, and i like that kinda handle/grip.