What is the Difference Between FUT and FUE Hair Transplant Surgery?
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) are two of the most effective hair transplant techniques available here at Arocha Hair Restoration. They are the products of years of advances in the field of hair restoration, and have proven to offer patients much more natural-looking results than treatments of the past. Both FUT and FUE involve the relocation of growing, healthy hairs from the sides or back of the head to areas where the natural hair has been lost; however, there are some distinctions between the two techniques which may make one more advantageous than the other in certain cases.
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Follicular Unit Transplantation surgically removes a strip of hair from a healthy area of hair growth(permanent donor area), in order to implant the follicles in the area targeted for treatment. This strip, or donor tissue harvest(grafts), of hair typically contains follicles that range from one to four hairs per follicle. The donor tissue is placed under a microscope and dissected, into slivers which is then processed and prepared into grafts of individual follicles as they normally occur in nature for implantation in the area of baldness/thinning hair. This precise technique is often more ideal for patients who have large areas of hair loss. It allows for very natural-looking outcomes; however, there will be a linear scar after the procedure, which can often be concealed under surrounding hair if you do not plan on having a very short hairstyle.
Follicular Unit Extraction is a "less invasive" hair transplantation technique that does not use a “strip harvesting” method. Follicular units are extracted directly from the donor area, typically leading to minimal scarring that is often barely noticeable, even when patients choose to wear their hair short.It is critical that a punch size .9mm or smaller be used for no visible detection of scars. FUE can be particularly beneficial for men in the military and others who routinely shave their heads. This technique also often results in less time needed for healing. The disadvantage of FUE is that it is a more time-consuming procedure than other techniques, particularly when the treatment area is larger. Strip harvesting techniques such as Follicular Unit Transplantation are often more ideal in cases such as those; however, the best option will ultimately depend on your unique needs and goals.
As noted above, there are some significant differences between the FUT and FUE techniques, but there is also one very important similarity: these procedures are both capable of providing extraordinarily natural-looking and realistic hair transplantation results. When you have met with Dr. Bernardino Arocha for your initial consultation, he will talk with you about your options and determine the best treatment technique for your needs.
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If you have questions about hair loss and restoration options available at our practice, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.