FUE Vs FUT Hair Transplant
When considering hair transplantation options, patients will often come across two widely used terms: follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT).
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FUE vs FUT
When considering hair transplantation options, patients will often come across two widely used terms: follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT). Both FUE and FUT are widely used hair transplant methods that are designed to take hair from one area of the scalp and relocate it to another. Hairs are extracted and the grafts are individually implanted into the scalp to reverse the effects of hair loss.
Whilst the goal of each method is the same, FUE and FUT take slightly different approaches to extracting the hairs from their original location (known as the “donor site”). Understanding the differences between these two methods will help you make an informed decision as to which treatment is best for you.
Benefits of FUE
It is a minimally invasive procedure
No cutting, stitches, or noticeable scarring
No stretching of the skin
Short recovery time with minimal post-procedure discomfort
How FUT works
FUT, or the ‘strip’ procedure, involves surgically removing a horizontal strip of scalp skin from an area with good hair growth, typically the back or sides of the head. This strip is then dissected to obtain individual hair grafts that are implanted in areas needing increased hair thickness, such as the hairline or crown.
FUT is a straightforward surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. The donor strip is usually at least two centimeters long and is dissected using a specialised microscope to separate and prepare individual follicular units. These units are then carefully inserted into the scalp to mimic natural growth patterns.
Hair continues its normal growth cycle after transplantation, with obvious scarring in the donor area where the strip was harvested. It is for this reason and the more invasive nature of this procedure that we do not offer FUT transplantation. Better results can be obtained by FUE.
How FUE works
FUE, short for Follicular Unit Extraction, is a minimally invasive and effective hair restoration method. It involves extracting individual follicular units, which are naturally occurring groups of up to four hair follicles, from a thicker and permanent hair area, typically the back of the head. These units are then implanted into areas with hair loss.
Using a specialized FUE device, tiny incisions are made in the scalp to extract the hair units, leaving minimal to no scarring. The number of grafts needed varies by individual and their desired results.
After extraction, trained technicians examine the grafts, and then strategically implant them into the balding areas, ensuring each graft is placed with care and precision based on the number of hairs in each follicle unit.
Pros and Cons
Although both methods are effective in restoring natural-looking hair density and thickness, each approach comes with its unique advantages. Patients should be aware of the pros and cons of both before making a decision.
Pros of FUE:
- It is a minimally invasive procedure
- No cutting, stitches, or noticeable scarring
- No stretching of the skin
- Lack of obvious scarring means patients can comfortably wear their hair short
- Short recovery time with minimal post-procedure discomfort
Cons of FUE:
- Extraction of individual follicular units requires more time
- Generally more expensive
Pros of FUT:
- Higher rate of follicular unit survival
- Removal of hair strips takes a shorter amount of time
- Suitable for more severe thinning, as it provides a larger yield of follicles
- Generally less expensive
Cons of FUT:
- Slightly longer recovery time
- More pain and discomfort after the procedure
- Visible scarring under short hair
Downsides of the FUT method
FUT is an invasive surgical technique, as it requires making a long incision to surgically remove a section of the scalp. When the strip of hair is removed, the skin then needs to be pulled and sutured into its new position. The technique results in a permanent linear scar at the back of the head, which will be visible if the hair is worn short. When compared to the FUE method, FUT requires a significantly longer and more painful recovery time. Patients who undergo this invasive procedure often require strong painkillers and a longer period off work or avoiding activity. For these reasons, many patients prefer the less-invasive FUE method that offers shorter recovery times and minimal scarring. Our clinic uses advanced, modern technologies to offer quality FUE hair transplantation treatments.
Personalised Approach
At Flawless Hair Restoration, we offer a personalised, patient-focused treatment approach. Explore your rejuvenation options with an obligation-free consultation, valued at $150, which is fully redeemable if you proceed with treatment. At your consult, we will:
Establish your concerns
And what you hope to achieve
Provide customised advice
From trained experts
Deliver a unique treatment plan,
Tailored to you and your body
Highly qualified Doctors
The treatment is administered by our highly qualified doctors and nurses
Obligation Free Consultation
An obligation-free consultation, valued at $150, which is fully redeemable if you proceed with treatment.
F.A.Q.s
Results and aftercare
Due to the non-invasive nature of FUE, you will not need stitches after undergoing this procedure, and the extraction and implantation will not leave any noticeable scarring. Recovery time is typically quick, with patients returning to work the next day. However, you may be required to avoid harsh hair care products or activities that may cause irritation. Recovery from FUT procedures on the other hand will take one to two weeks, and patients will need to follow aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing. After FUT, you may be left with some scars, but these should be easily hidden by the surrounding hair, however hair cannot be clipped short or faded as the extraction scar will be visible.
After both procedures, it is normal for patients to experience some redness or sensitivity, but this will soon subside. Some of the implanted hairs may fall out due to the natural growth cycle. These will grow back after a few months, revealing your improved hair density in the area. Results can take approximately four months to fully appear.
What is the FUE method?
FUE is a method of transplantation whereby hair follicles are extracted from the scalp individually. This is different from other more invasive methods such as follicular unit transplantation (FUT), which harvests hair follicles by surgically removing a strip of skin from the scalp.
When will I see results?
A few months after the procedure, your transplanted hair will begin growing into its new location. Patients should experience significant growth by the six-month mark with final results by 12-15 months.
Are results permanent?
The procedure uses your own healthy, living hair from the donor site. The transplantation is designed to move the hair to live permanently in the new location.
Are there any side effects?
Although robotic hair transplants have an excellent success rate, every medical procedure comes with some risks. These can include scalp tightness, infection, and scalp pain or sensitivity. An advantage to the application of ARTAS technology is that it minimises the risk of complications caused by human error.