What You Need to Know about FUE and FUT Hair Transplants
Hair loss is a common issue that affects people of all ages. It can have significant effects on self-confidence and quality of life. Thankfully, there are solutions for those struggling with hair loss, such as surgical hair transplants. In order to make an informed decision, it is essential to understand the two main techniques used: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
What Is Hair Loss and Hair Transplant Surgery?
Hair loss, also known as alopecia or baldness, is a condition that affects millions of men and women around the world. It occurs when hair follicles lose their ability to produce new hairs, leading to thinning and eventual balding of the scalp. Hair loss can be caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications, stress and disease. In some cases, it is reversible, while in others it is permanent.
Hair transplant surgery is used to restore hair growth by moving donor hair follicles (from the back of the patient’s head) to bald or thinning areas of the scalp. It can also be used to fill in gaps or improve the overall appearance of existing hairs. The procedure has been around for decades and continues to evolve as technology advances. Thanks to modern surgical techniques, the results are often so natural-looking that they are virtually undetectable from normal hairs.
FUT Hair Transplant
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) involves harvesting a strip of skin with healthy hairs from an area on your scalp known as the donor site. The harvested hairs are then divided into small groups containing one to four hairs each, called follicular units. These donated follicular units are carefully inserted into the recipient area, where they will replace lost or thinning hair.
FUT hair transplant is considered the most effective form of hair transplant surgery and is the fastest method for large areas of baldness. It involves a single procedure that usually takes between four to six hours and leaves minimal scarring.
The grafts from FUT transplantation tend to grow faster than those from other hair restoration methods. In most cases, new hair growth can be seen in three to four months after the surgery. After 10 to 12 months, you should see significant results with a full head of restored hair.
FUE Hair Transplant
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a more recent technique in which individual follicular units are extracted from the donor area using small punches or needles. The harvested hairs are then transplanted directly into tiny holes made in the scalp at intervals of 2-3 millimeters apart. FUE hair transplant can be used to restore a receding hairline, fill in balding areas or thicken existing hair. This method is recommended for small areas and for patient’s who keep their hair very short.
FUE is popular for its minimally-invasive nature and shorter recovery time. The procedure does not require the donor area to be cut or sutured closed. That being said, it is NOT a scarless procedure though many hair transplant clinics market it as one – scars are round and distributed throughout the donor area.
The FUE technique offers a natural look and feel as healthy hairs are transplanted into the balding areas of the scalp. With proper care, patients should expect to see results within 4-8 months after the procedure. The transplanted hairs will continue to grow naturally over time, providing long-lasting results that look and feel like your own native hair.
What Is the Difference Between FUT and FUE Procedures?
The main difference between FUT and FUE procedures is their individual harvesting techniques. In FUT, hairs are harvested from an entire strip of the scalp using scalpel incisions, whereas, in FUE, they are extracted individually using small punches or needles. This means that with FUE, there is no need for stitches, reducing visible scarring after surgery.
FUT also offers more control over the harvesting process, as multiple follicular units can be harvested simultaneously. The technique is ideal for large-scale hair restoration, such as when restoring an entire bald patch or thickening thinning hair. FUE is better suited for smaller-scale procedures such as filling in a receding hairline or covering small areas of baldness.
When it comes to long-term outcomes, both FUT and FUE can provide excellent results.
Choosing the Right Hair Transplant Procedure for You
When considering hair transplant surgery in a hair treatment clinic, weighing the pros and cons of each procedure is important. Factors such as age, amount of available donor area and patient preference should be considered when deciding which technique is suitable for you.
Both FUT and FUE are considered safe procedures with minimal risk of complications. However, like any surgical procedure, certain risks are associated with both techniques, such as skin irritation or temporary numbness in the donor site. It is, therefore, important to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before proceeding with treatment.
Aftercare following a hair transplant procedure should include avoiding activities that can strain the scalp, such as strenuous exercise or heavy lifting. Following proper aftercare and recovery protocols can significantly improve the results of a hair transplant and help ensure natural-looking results.
If you’re looking for the best hair loss solution in the Philippines, Pineda Hair Transplant Clinic is the perfect place to start. Dr Pineda has extensive experience in hair restoration and can recreate hair patterns that closely mimic nature. Contact us today by calling (632) 8813-0691 to learn more about their services.