Two main techniques are used to obtain follicles for transplantation :
- follicular unit transplantation (FUT) - The surgeon will use a scalpel to cut out a strip of scalp skin from the back of the head. The incision is typically several inches long. This is then closed with stitches.
The surgeon next separates the removed portion of scalp into small sections using a magnifying lens and sharp surgical knife. When implanted, these sections will help achieve natural-looking hair growth.
In FUT the harvesting of the strip and the stitching of the area will require just about 45 minutes after which you will usually be sent to rest for a while till the team will harvest the hair grafts from the strips.
- follicular unit extraction (FUE) - the hair follicles are cut out directly from the back of the head through hundreds to thousands of tiny punch incisions.
The surgeon makes tiny holes with a blade or needle in the area of your scalp that’s receiving the hair transplant. They gently place hairs in these holes.
During one treatment session, a surgeon may transplant hundreds or even thousands of hairs. After, the graft, gauze, or bandages will cover your scalp for a few days.
Let’s compare these techniques properly so that you can make the decision which one is the best for you!
Advantages of FUE :
- Minimal recovery time-JUST ONE DAY
- Can sport a short hair style
- Tiny dot like scars over donor areas
- No requirement of stitches
- No need for repeat visit for stitch removal
- Shorter healing time
Advantages of FUT :
- Cheaper
- Shorter operative time
- Larger sessions are easier
- A repeat FUT/FUE can be done in future
- Dissection occurs under microscopy
- Can be followed by FUE if needed but not vice versa
Disadvantages of FUE :
- More expensive
- Long operative period and hence tiring for the patient.
- Number of grafts extracted per day is limited therefore in extensive baldness may require multiple sessions
- Once FUE is done, a second FUE/FUT cannot be done in future
- Shaving / Trimming of the donor -required
- Difficult for larger areas
Disadvantages of FUT :
- Stitches required
- May leave a scar
- Longer healing time
- More discomfort
Dr. Ankit Gupta - Director of Panache Aesthetics (MBBS, MS, M.Ch.) is one of the Best Hair Transplant Surgeon in Delhi (https://panacheaesthetics.com/) since many years now.
If you need any kind of help, Please reach out of us and we would be happy to help you! :)