Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
FUT involves a technique where a thin strip of healthy hair-bearing skin, from a ‘permanent’ area of the scalp (where hair is genetically programmed to continue growing for life) is harvested and transplanted to an area of hair loss (‘non-permanent area’).
FUT (strip) and how is it different from FUE (punch)
A Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) are two common techniques used in hair transplantation procedures, each with its own distinct approach and benefits.
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation):
- FUT, also known as the strip method, involves surgically removing a thin strip of scalp tissue from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the scalp) where hair follicles are genetically resistant to balding.
- The strip of scalp tissue is then dissected under a microscope to harvest individual follicular units containing one to four hairs each.
- The recipient site (balding or thinning area) is prepared by creating small incisions or recipient sites where the harvested follicular units will be transplanted.
- The follicular units are carefully placed into the recipient sites, mimicking the natural pattern and density of hair growth.
- The donor area is sutured closed, leaving a linear scar that is typically covered by surrounding hair.
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction):
- FUE involves harvesting individual follicular units directly from the donor area using a small punch tool, typically ranging from 0.8mm to 1.0mm in diameter.
- Each follicular unit is extracted one at a time, leaving tiny round scars scattered throughout the donor area. These scars are less noticeable compared to the linear scar produced by FUT.
- The harvested follicular units are then transplanted into the recipient site using a similar process as in FUT, creating small incisions and carefully placing the follicular units into these sites.
- FUE does not involve the removal of a strip of scalp tissue, making it less invasive and resulting in quicker recovery times compared to FUT.
- FUE is often preferred by individuals who prefer to wear their hair short, as it minimizes visible scarring in the donor area.
Key Differences:
- FUT involves the removal of a strip of scalp tissue, while FUE involves the extraction of individual follicular units directly from the scalp.
- FUT leaves a linear scar in the donor area, whereas FUE leaves small, round scars scattered throughout the donor area.
- FUT typically yields a higher number of grafts in a single session compared to FUE.
- FUE is less invasive and may have shorter recovery times compared to FUT.
- FUE may be preferred by individuals who wish to avoid a visible linear scar or who prefer to wear their hair short.
Both FUT and FUE have their own advantages and limitations, and the choice between the two techniques depends on individual factors such as hair loss pattern, donor hair characteristics, and patient preferences. Consulting with a qualified hair transplant surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable approach for each individual case.