FUE, or follicular unit extraction, is the process of extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area and transplanting it to an area that is thinning or an area of permanent hair loss. Each follicle is surgically extracted and microscopically screened and prepped before they are implanted into areas experiencing permanent hair loss. This process is minimally invasive and has no long-term scarring or pain.
FUT, or follicular unit transplantation, is when the surgeon removes a linear strip of your scalp from your donor area and harvests hair follicles from this strip (FUT is also commonly known as “the strip method” for this reason). The scalp is then sutured back together, and the individual follicular units from the excised strip are dissected, assessed microscopically, and then prepped to be implanted into areas of concern.
Both FUE and FUT procedures are effective at regrowing hair that you have lost. However, FUE offers a more innovative and modern approach with robotic options.
At Austin Hair Restoration Clinic, we solely perform FUE procedures. While some cases may warrant the use of an FUT procedure, we believe there are significant shortcomings of this transplantation method, such as:
Pain and Discomfort
Since FUT requires the excision of a section of the head as well as suturing, many patients report a more painful procedure experience. FUT patients complain of lingering pain and scalp tightness even after the procedure is done. FUE eliminates these factors, and many patients have minimal to no pain the next day.
Scarring
FUT leaves a linear scar at the back of the head since the surgeon must suture the scalp after making a large incision to remove a strip-like portion. Whereas with FUE, the hair follicles are extracted individually from the back and sides of the head, leaving no visible scarring. The scar form an FUT procedure is permanent and will be visible for individuals who prefer their hair short or shaven.
Extended Recovery Time
Due to the invasiveness of the FUT procedure, recovery and healing may be longer than with an FUE procedure.
