The main difference between hair transplant procedure and any other hair restoration solution is the permanence and results. A hair transplant procedure provides results that look and feel, if done correctly, natural. It’s basically of three types
The FUT process involves removing a small strip of tissue from the back of the head, from which the donor hair follicles are extracted. The hair follicles are harvested from the strip by a skilled clinical team before being individually transplanted to the recipient areas. In most cases, and especially cases of advanced hair loss, FUT is the preferred method because it allows the physician to fully utilize the scalp area to deliver results consistent with patient expectations. FUT typically allows for the greatest number of grafts to be transplanted in a single session.
In an FUE hair transplantation, each follicular unit is individually taken directly from the scalp with no strip of tissue being removed. Hair follicles are removed in a random fashion and the result is less density in the donor area that many say is not even noticeable. This is the main difference between FUE & FUT. Since follicles are removed one at a time, fewer follicles can be harvested during a typical session, making FUE a better option to restore hair in smaller cases (number of grafts) compared to the traditional FUT method. FUE is constantly evolving and what was once utilized for only smaller cases is now being utilized for larger and larger cases. Some people that prefer the FUE method may have the option of splitting their procedure into two days in order to complete their recommended transplantation goals.
With no stitches required and no linear scar left to heal, FUE procedures do have a faster healing time and less post-procedure discomfort compared to the traditional FUT procedure.
Some patients report higher levels of discomfort with FUT procedures compared to FUE due the potential swelling in the area where the strip of tissue was removed, but both methods have a very manageable recovery period and pain medication is prescribed by the surgeon if needed. Both techniques of hair transplantation are relatively simple. Hair transplantation procedures are outpatient surgeries with some patients going back to work as soon as the very next day.</li>
The FUT strip extraction method typically results in a very narrow linear scar in the back of the head (typically 1mm in diameter or less in size). Since the scar is very thin, it’s easily concealed by all but the shortest of haircut styles. A short to moderate crop setting on most clippers is sufficient to conceal the scar for the majority of patients, and over time the scar will become less noticeable as it fades.
Since FUE procedures involve removing hairs individually from the scalp, there is no linear scar left behind. However, there will be tiny 1mm in diameter or less puncture marks that tend to heal by themselves after scabbing-over in the days following the procedure. These tiny wounds typically heal within three to seven days.
During initial consultation, the surgeon will determine which transplantation method is best for patient based on hair loss classification, the size of the thinning area, quality and quantity of available donor hair.
All these procedures & surgeries have been well studied & established. The results have been documented & published over a period of time hence there is no doubt about the usefulness & efficacy of the treatment if done properly & by experts. But at the same time it’s important to understand that each human body responds differently to any therapy hence it’s difficult to guarantee any outcome. Being well informed regarding various aspects of hair loss, restoration etc and having realistic expectations from the procedure increase the chances you will be happy with the results.
Your Dermatologist/Trichologist/Cosmetologist is qualified & suitable person to decide on the right treatment modality. Several factors like Age, grade of baldness, quality of hair, medical history and physical examination are taken into account while deciding which therapy suits which patient.