Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), also known as the strip method, is one of the most widely practiced and effective techniques for hair restoration. This method has been a cornerstone in the field of hair transplantation due to its ability to deliver natural-looking results with minimal risk of scarring in the donor area. Understanding the process, benefits, and considerations of the FUT hair transplant technique can help potential patients make informed decisions about their hair restoration journey.
FUT involves the removal of a thin strip of scalp from the donor area, typically from the back or sides of the head where hair is genetically resistant to balding. This area is carefully chosen because the hair in this region usually continues to grow throughout a person’s life, even in those with male pattern baldness. Once the strip is removed, the surgeon and their team meticulously dissect it under a microscope into individual follicular units. Each follicular unit typically contains one to four hairs. These units are then carefully implanted into the thinning or balding areas of the scalp, where they will grow naturally over time.
At UK Hair Transplants, the FUE hair transplant procedure is carried out by highly experienced surgeons in a sterile and safe environment. The process can be broken down into the following stages:
The procedure begins with the patient being prepped and the donor area shaved or trimmed. Local anesthesia is then administered to numb both the donor and recipient areas, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the surgery.
Once the follicles are harvested, the next step involves creating micro incisions in the recipient area (the thinning or balding regions of the scalp). These incisions must be made at specific angles and depths to ensure that the transplanted hair grows in the same direction and with the same natural density as the surrounding hair.
The process begins with an in depth consultation where we assess the extent of hair loss, analyse the donor area, and discuss your expectations. A detailed medical history is taken to ensure that the patient is a good candidate for the procedure. Our experienced consultants explain the procedure in detail & tailor the treatment plan to each individual’s needs.
During this step:
Once the follicles are harvested, the next step involves creating micro incisions in the recipient area (the thinning or balding regions of the scalp). These incisions must be made at specific angles and depths to ensure that the transplanted hair grows in the same direction and with the same natural density as the surrounding hair.
The surgeon then makes tiny incisions in the balding or thinning areas of the scalp, carefully considering the natural hair growth pattern, direction, and density. These sites will host the follicular units.
One of the main drawbacks of FUT is the linear scar that remains at the donor site. While the scar is usually thin and can be hidden by surrounding hair, it may be more noticeable in patients who prefer to keep their hair very short.
FUT typically involves a longer recovery time compared to Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), another popular hair transplant method. Patients may experience more discomfort and tightness in the donor area during the initial healing period.
Not all patients are ideal candidates for FUT. Factors such as scalp laxity (the ability of the scalp to stretch) and hair density in the donor area play a significant role in determining whether FUT is the best option.
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) used to be a highly effective and reliable method for hair restoration until 2020, offering natural and long-lasting results. As the procedure does leave a linear scar, which is why making FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) has become a viable option for many individuals seeking to restore their hair and confidence.
At UK Hair Transplants (UKHT) Clinic, we specialize in the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) technique, which we prefer for its precision and effectiveness. FUE is a minimally invasive method that involves extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area and transplanting them to thinning or balding areas. This technique offers natural-looking results with minimal scarring and a quicker recovery time compared to traditional methods. Our highly skilled surgeons at UKHT are experts in FUE, ensuring that each procedure is tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients, providing them with the best possible outcome.
2024-10-24
Absolutely the best dental practice by far! The care and attention is completely unrivalled and all of the staff / team go
CEO, Artico
Amazing clinic,the best dental experience I have ever had. Doctor is very reassuring and supportive, I was fully informed of
2024-10-24
Absolutely the best dental practice by far! The care and attention is completely unrivalled and all of the staff / team go
CEO, Artico
Amazing clinic,the best dental experience I have ever had. Doctor is very reassuring and supportive, I was fully informed of
