| Aspect | FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) | FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Individual follicular units are extracted directly from the scalp using a punch device | A strip of scalp is removed from the donor area, and follicular units are dissected from the strip |
| Scarring | Leaves tiny, dot-like scars that are less noticeable, and virtually invisible | Leaves a linear scar at the donor site, which can be noticeable with very short hair |
| Recovery Time | Faster recovery time; small sites heal in a few days | Longer recovery time due to the larger incision; stitches and staples are required and removed at 2 weeks |
| Pain and Discomfort | Minimal post-operative discomfort due to the absence of an incision. Feels like a light sunburn | More post-operative discomfort and potential for tightness at the donor site and a light dull ache |
| Cost | Generally more expensive, approximately 25% higher than FUT | Generally less expensive compared to FUE |
| Suitability | Ideal for those who prefer short haircuts or have fewer grafts to transplant | Suitable for those requiring a large number of grafts |
| Shaving | Typically requires shaving of the donor area, but can be done without complete shaving (no-shave option) | No shaving of the donor area required |
| Procedure Time | More time-consuming due to the individual extraction of follicles | Generally quicker as the strip method allows harvesting of multiple follicles at once |
| Post-Op Appearance | More noticeable due to shaving donor area | Less noticeable incision which can be hidden by longer hair |
Individuals Needing 2000+ Grafts in One Session: FUT can often harvest 3000 or more grafts in a single sitting, making it ideal for those seeking significant coverage in just one procedure.
Those Looking to Spend Less: FUT enables bulk harvesting of grafts, which typically makes it more affordable, especially for larger procedures.
Individuals Who Don’t Mind a Linear Scar: While FUT leaves a linear scar at the donor site, it can be easily concealed if the patient wears their hair longer at the back.
Patients Preferring to Avoid Shaving the Donor Area: Unlike FUE, FUT does not require shaving the entire donor area, making post-procedure recovery less noticeable.
People with Good Scalp Elasticity: Patients with looser scalp skin often experience easier and more successful donor strip removal, leading to better results and faster healing times.
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) is a proven hair restoration technique where a strip of scalp is removed from the back of the head. Individual hair grafts are meticulously harvested under a microscope and transplanted into thinning or balding areas to achieve natural results.
FUT removes a strip of skin from the donor area, allowing for 3,000+ grafts to be harvested in a single session. This method is more cost-effective than FUE and does not require shaving the donor area, making immediate post-procedure signs less noticeable.
At DiStefano Hair Restoration Center, ideal FUT candidates are those with sufficient donor hair, typically at the back and sides of the scalp, and who prefer a method that allows for a high number of grafts with extensive hair loss.
FUT can yield 3,000 or more grafts in a single session, making it an excellent option for patients who need significant hair coverage.
FUT results in a thin, linear scar at the donor site. At DiStefano Hair Restoration Center, we ensure the scar is minimal and easily concealed under longer hairstyles. In addition, the scar heals to the equivalent of a thin white pencil line due to our techniques.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring patients feel no pain during surgery. Post-procedure discomfort is minimal, similar to a mild headache, and is effectively managed with medication.
Recovery is quick. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 weeks, and staples are removed 14 days post-procedure.
Transplanted hair will initially shed, which is normal. New growth begins at 3-4 months, with significant improvements by 6-9 months. Full results are visible by 12-18 months.
Yes, FUT provides permanent results. Transplanted hairs are resistant to DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss, ensuring they will continue to grow for a lifetime.
