While there are several hair transplant options, there are two types of transplant methods regarded as the most popular options: Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT), which is also sometimes referred to as Linear Strip Excision (LSE), and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Each has their own value and techniques, and it is helpful to be informed before making any decisions. Ultimately, discussion with a physician about your specific needs will help determine the best course of action for your hair.
Is FUE as Effective as FUT?
Both methods are effective in restoring one’s hairline and appearance but have different approaches. FUT procedures remove strips of the scalp from a donor area, typically the back of the head, and splice it into grafts for transplantation.
On the other hand, FUE extracts individual hair follicles using a small punch tool. The effectiveness of either method depends on various factors like the extent of hair loss and the quality of the source follicles. FUE is often the more preferred method because it can harvest follicles from a broader donor area and tends to heal faster.
Is FUE or FUT More Painful?
The way people perceive pain can vary a lot between individuals, but generally FUE is less painful. FUE makes small, circular incisions that typically cause less pain and allow for quicker healing. FUT involves making a linear incision along the scalp which may cause more post-surgery discomfort and a longer recovery period.
Do FUE Scars Fade?
An advantage of FUE is that it is known for its minimal scarring. The tiny punch incisions in FUE tend to heal to very small dot-like scars that are less noticeable compared to the linear scar left by FUT. The size of an FUE scar depends on the size of the FUE punch used by the surgeon performing the procedure and how well the patient heals. With FUE, you will technically have more scars than with FUT – but they will be tiny, spread out, and easily concealed by even the shortest haircuts.
What Percentage of FUE Grafts Survive?
The survival rate of FUE grafts is generally high when performed by a skilled surgeon. There are many factors determining the success of FUE grafts – such as graft handling, recipient site preparation, and post-operative care. Rates can vary person to person, but in general the survival rates of transplanted follicles are very high and continue to grow naturally after taking root.
Does FUE Look Natural?
One of the primary purposes of any hair transplant procedure is to achieve a natural look the patient can feel happy and confident with. FUE has the benefit of being able to precisely extract and place individual follicles. It allows for strategic placement of the hair follicles to best mimic natural hair growth patterns to achieve a normal and natural appearance.
Rothesay Laser Clinic — Helping You Look Your Best
At Rothesay Laser & Hair Clinic, we are here to help you look your absolute best. We offer a comprehensive array of spa and medical aesthetic services that give you the tools to do just that. If hair thinning or loss is your concern, we offer FUE transplants using the NeoGraft℗ 2.0 as well as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment and a number of other hair restoration therapies. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a visit!
