FUE and FUT Hair Restoration Methods
Follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT) are hair transplant techniques that move hair follicles from a donor area to another part of the scalp. The primary difference is how grafts are harvested. Both methods are used for hair loss in men and women.
At Central Dermatology Center, Dr. Leeor Porges performs both FUT and FUE. He is a board-certified, ISHRS fellowship-trained dermatologist.
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
FUT, also called follicular unit strip surgery, removes a strip of hair-bearing skin from the donor area. The follicles are separated and transplanted. The donor area is stitched closed and heals with a small linear scar.
FUT may be used for larger transplants or for people with significant balding. The linear scar can be camouflaged with approaches such as FUE or scalp micropigmentation.
With FUT, sutures are dissolvable and can be covered by existing hair after surgery. Recovery is typically longer than FUE, and there may be two to three days of postoperative discomfort that requires pain medicine. The scar can be visible with very short hairstyles. FUT generally has a lower treatment cost than FUE.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
FUE removes individual hair follicles through small circular incisions in the donor area. It may be an option for people who have minimal donor hair, need fewer grafts, prefer shorter hairstyles, or want to avoid a linear scar.
FUE leaves multiple small dot-shaped scars and does not require sutures. The entire donor area is shaved. Postoperative pain may be minimal, and recovery is typically shorter than FUT. FUE usually costs more than FUT.
Choosing a Method
The right method depends on your hair loss, donor area, the number of grafts needed, recovery considerations, hairstyle preferences, and cost. A hair restoration consultation can help determine which method is appropriate.
