There are two types of surgical hair transplants: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT). The transplant process is the primary difference between the two methods.

Both hair transplant procedures start the same. First, your scalp is thoroughly cleaned. Then, a small needle is used to numb a section of your scalp with local anesthesia.

Now, here come the differences…

Follicular Unit Extraction** (FUE Procedure)

1. Rather than cutting a strip of skin, the surgeon will extract individual hair follicles from the donor area.
2. The surgeon uses a blade or needle in the area of your scalp that’s receiving the transplant and makes tiny holes to then delicately place the extracted hairs into these holes.
3. The surgeon can transplant several strands of hair in one session.
4. Gauze, grafts, or bandages will cover your scalp for a few days post-surgery.

Follicular Unit Transplantation** (FUT Procedure)

1. A surgeon will cut a strip of skin from the back of the head. The incision is several inches long.
2. The surgeon then separates the removed area of the scalp into two sections.
3. Follicular unit grafts are then transplanted. These sections will help the hair grow.
4. The incision site is then stitched up.

Advantages of FUE:

• There is no linear scar left behind like with FUT. Tiny dot scars are left behind, but they are barely noticeable to the naked eye, this allows quicker return to activities.
• Since scarring is minimal, short haircuts are an option.
• FUE is suitable for people who may only need a small number of grafts in their hairline.
• FUE takes a shorter amount of time to heal than FUT.

Advantages of FUT:

• FUT is an ideal option for patients requiring many grafts.
• FUT offers maximum fullness.
• With FUT, you can keep your hair long, which will help to cover up the linear scar.
• Shorter time in surgery. The FUT process can usually take between 4 and 12 hours, which is typically a shorter amount of time than FUE, which can take more than one day in some cases.
• FUT is often less pricey than FUE.

Cost of Hair Transplant Suegery:

FUE is typically more expensive than FUT. Follicles are removed individually, which makes this method costlier. Pricing usually depends on the number of grafts needed.

The overall cost of the procedure depends on the patient’s condition and goals.

How Long Do Surgical Hair Transplant Procedures Take?

Surgical hair transplants can take between four and twelve hours to complete, depending on the number of grafts needed. Stitches from FUT will be removed about ten days after surgery.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Surgical Hair Transplants?

• Men who have been losing their hair due to male pattern baldness for more than five years.
• Men who have advanced to class 3 or above on the Norwood Scale.
• Men who have set realistic expectations. It is essential to recognize that hair loss might continue to progress post-surgery.
• Men and women with hair loss caused by trauma or burns.
• Men and women who have lost hair as a result of cosmetic procedures, such as a facelift.
• Women with thinning hair.

Surgical Hair Transplants Aren’t a Good Option For:

• Women whose hair loss is spread throughout the scalp.
• People who lack “donor” hair sites which are needed to remove hair for relocation.
• People who are prone to keloid scars after surgical operations
• People whose hair loss is caused by the consumption of medications. How Successful Are Hair Transplants?
• According to Healthline, 10 to 80 percent of the transplanted hair will fully grow back in an estimated three to four months. · Transplanted hair will thin over time, like natural hair.
• Transplants may be less effective for people with dormant follicles.
• Hair transplants are not always successful for everyone. Results may vary.

Additional Information, Reference and Links

https://www.healthline.com/health/does-hair-transplant-work

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/men-hair-loss-17/hair-transplants

** Professional hair transplantation services provided by the affiliated physicians of Bosley Medical Group. Please note that no procedures are performed at Bosley® until the patient has been examined, diagnosed and accepted for treatment by a Bosley physician. Results may vary.

For informational purposes only. The information presented herein is general in nature and is not intended to substitute the advice of a physician or other health care professional.

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