Hair Transplantation Techniques: FUE VS FUT

by Andrew Martin Health Consultant

When considering cosmetic procedures, individuals always seek the most optimal outcomes at a reasonable price. Naturally, the best results can be achieved by skilled and experienced professionals. Therefore, it is crucial to locate one of the top surgeons who can perform the procedure at a cost-friendly rate. Hair transplant in India has become increasingly popular among cosmetic surgeries, thanks to the growing awareness and aesthetic aspirations of the population. The cost of hair transplant in India is also highly affordable compared to other developed countries, making it a preferred destination for those seeking hair transplant tourism.

Medispa hair transplant clinic is a reliable choice for your hair transplant needs. We excel in all aspects that you would consider when searching for the best hair transplant clinic, from the qualifications of our surgeon to the kindness of our supporting staff.

Dr. Suneet Soni, one of India's top hair transplant surgeons, is renowned for his ability to deliver natural-looking results. With his expertise in cosmetic surgeries, Medispa has become a leading provider of hair transplant procedures, attracting a growing number of patients on a daily basis.

Hair transplant: Procedure

Hair transplantation surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to restore lost hair on a bald scalp by extracting follicular grafts from donor areas, typically located on the back and sides of the head or other body parts with sufficient hair follicle density.

Hair transplant technique

There are two primary methods for harvesting hair transplant grafts, namely FUT and FUE. Each technique has its own set of indications and limitations, which are considered when determining the most suitable option for a patient. The key factor influencing the choice between the two techniques is the number of grafts needed for harvesting. FUT is typically chosen for cases requiring 3000-3500 hair grafts, while FUE is recommended for cases needing 2000-2500 grafts, particularly in early stages of baldness and for facial hair transplants.

Hair transplant: Recovery

Most patients who undergo a hair transplant can resume their regular work the day after the procedure. The physical recovery period typically lasts for 7-10 days, provided that the post-operative instructions are strictly followed to promote faster healing and hair growth. Nowadays, PRP therapy is widely used to accelerate the healing process and promote growth at the recipient site. However, it is important to note that immediate results cannot be expected after a hair transplant. It takes several months for the transplanted hair follicles to grow and produce visible results. During the initial 2-3 weeks after the procedure, it is normal to experience hair loss in the transplanted area, which can be quite alarming considering the significant investment made.

After a waiting period of 3 months following the hair transplant procedure, visible growth begins to emerge and continues to develop over time. By the 6-month mark, a significant amount of growth becomes noticeable, although it may initially appear uneven. However, as the growth progresses, it becomes more evenly distributed. The most noticeable amount of growth can be observed between 8 to 12 months after the hair transplant, providing complete assurance of the final results of the procedure.

What happens when higher number of hair grafts needed?

In cases of severe baldness such as Norwood VI and VII class, where a large number of grafts are needed, a combination technique of FUT and FUE is recommended. Previously, multiple sessions were necessary to obtain the required number of grafts, but now this combined approach is very successful in harvesting a higher number of grafts in just one session. The combination technique utilizes both FUT and FUE depending on the specific number of grafts needed during the single session.

Differences between FUE hair transplant and FUT hair transplant:

1. Harvesting Technique:

FUT: The method of harvesting involves removing a thin strip from the donor area and then dissecting it to separate each follicular graft.

FUE: The technique involves individually extracting follicular grafts using a surgical device similar to a punch.

2. Scarring:

FUT: When the thin strip is harvested and a more advanced suturing technique called "trichophytic closure" is used, the resulting scarring is almost invisible.

FUE: There may be an almost invisible scar in a circular shape due to the extraction of each follicle, but this can be further minimized by extracting the follicles from a greater distance.

3. The number of grafts obtained differs between FUT and FUE procedures.

FUT typically yields a higher number of grafts, ranging from approximately 3000-3500 grafts. On the other hand, FUE usually results in a lesser number of grafts, around 2000-2500 grafts.

4. Indications

The indications for FUT and FUE procedures also vary. FUT is preferred for extensive bald cases due to its ability to offer a larger number of grafts. On the contrary, FUE is more commonly chosen for initial baldness and facial hair transplant, as it provides a lesser number of grafts.

5. Indications

When it comes to shaving the head, there are differences between FUT and FUE. With FUT, only minimal shaving is required at the donor area, which can be easily concealed behind the existing hairs. However, FUE necessitates complete shaving of the head.

6. Future sittings:

FUT method allows for future sessions as there is enough space left for additional harvesting. FUE technique offers limited potential for future sessions as it may risk damaging the safe donor area through excessive harvesting.

7. Follicular damage rate:

The FUT process involves graft harvesting under magnification, resulting in a lower damage rate. In FUE, there is a relatively higher risk of follicular damage as this blind procedure involves punching a device under the tissues to extract follicles.

8. Healing time:

FUT: Typically, fully healed within a week.

FUE: Typically, fully healed within a week.

9. Time taken:

The FUT procedure usually lasts around 4-5 hours. After FUE hair transplant, it typically takes between 6-8 hours to complete.