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.
Thanks to local anesthesia and medications, FUT is virtually painless during the procedure. Afterward, patients typically experience mild discomfort similar to a headache for the first day or so, but with prescribed medication, most feel no significant pain. The discomfort is generally short-lived
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