FUE HAIR TRANSPLANT
,WHAT IS AN FUE HAIR TRANSPLANT?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a popular hair transplant procedure used to treat hair loss. hair
follicles are removed from the donor area as follicular units also known as micro-grafts. Micro-
grafts contain one, two or three hair roots, depending upon the unit structure of the given follicle,
and some skin and subcutaneous tissue. The term refers to the technique of follicle (graft)
harvesting. It is a method that is used to transfer hair follicles (graft) harvested from the site
between two ears, on the back of the head to the bald area with the desired angle. Hair follicles are
harvested using a special tool named micro-motor that has a special tip. Thickness of the tips used
with micro-motor varies between 0.6 to 0.7 mm. Thus, 3000-7000 grafts can be extracted. This
technique allows obtaining a very natural outcome. FUE is a minimal invasive technique used for
hair transplant. This method eliminates pain, scars, infections, open wounds and scarring after the
operation. Rapid healing is observed when this method is used and the patient can go back to daily
routine in a very short time.
Advantages Of FUE
Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional strip harvesting methods, FUE does not leave a linear scar
and offers quicker recovery times.
Natural Results: When performed by a skilled surgeon, FUE can produce very natural-looking
results.
Less discomfort: Many patients report less discomfort during the healing process.
Recovery: FUE typically results in less visible scarring and a quicker recovery compared to
traditional hair transplant methods, such as Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), which involves
removing a strip of scalp.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is an effective hair restoration option for a diverse range of
individuals experiencing hair loss. Here are the key factors that determine whether someone is a
suitable candidate for the FUE procedure:Location of Hair Loss:FUE is particularly beneficial for
those who have thinning or balding areas at the crown, along the hairline, or on the top of the
head.Underlying Cause of Hair Loss:The cause of baldness plays a significant role in candidacy.
FUE is most effective for individuals with natural hair loss conditions or those who have
experienced trauma to the scalp that has inhibited hair growth.Hair Density:The density of hair in
the donor area is crucial. Candidates with a higher density of hair follicles in the donor region will
have more viable grafts available for transplantation, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the
procedure.
How FUE Is Performed?
1. Consultation: The process begins with a consultation where the surgeon assesses your hair
loss and discusses your goals.
2. Preparation: On the day of the procedure, first we identify the recipient areas and work to
personalize a plan to help you achieve the most natural-looking hairline possible. Next, we trim
the hair in your donor area to facilitate the identification and removal of strong, healthy donor
hairs.the surgical area (typically the scalp) is cleaned and disinfected.Local anesthesia is
administered to the donor area (where hair follicles will be extracted) to ensure comfort during
the process.
3. Harvesting Follicles: Once the donor area is prepared, we remove individual follicular units
from your scalp usually the back or sides of the scalp by making a tiny circular incision around
them to isolate the graft. Then we extract the graft from the scalp using a tweezers-like
instrument, our technicians examine the follicular grafts and prepare them for placement.
4. Preparation of Follicles: Once extracted, the follicles are carefully preserved in a nutrient
solution to keep them viable.
5. Creating Recipient Sites: After harvesting the follicles, the surgeon will prepare the recipient
area (the area where the hair will be implanted).Small incisions are made in the scalp where
the new hair will grow. The angle and direction of these incisions are crucial for natural-looking
results that match your natural hair growth pattern.
6. Transplantation: The follicular grafts are then strategically placed one by one, according to the
number of hairs within each follicle, in order to maximize the naturalness, density and coverage
of the thinning areas.
7. Post-Operative Care: After the procedure, the scalp may be slightly swollen or tender, and the
surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and promote
healing.Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities, direct sunlight, and certain
hair products for a short period.
8. Healing and Results: The tiny incisions left behind after the follicular units are extracted will
heal completely in a few days. With most patients returning to normal activities within a week.
Three months after the procedure, you should begin to notice new hair growth. After six
months, you should see noticeable regrowth, at which point your native and transplanted hair
will continue to grow naturally and full results can often be seen 12 months post-surgery.
The Recovery Process After FUE Hair Transplant Surgery
The recovery process following Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant surgery is generally
straightforward, but it is crucial to adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by your
surgeon. Here's what you can expect during your recovery period.
1. Minimal DiscomfortMost patients report only mild discomfort after the procedure. While some
minor pain is normal, it can typically be managed effectively with prescribed medications,
allowing you to feel comfortable during your healing process.
2. Scabbing and SheddingIn the first week post-surgery, you may notice the formation of small
scabs around the transplanted hair follicles. These scabs will gradually shed, revealing new
hair growth underneath. This natural process is a sign that your transplanted follicles are taking
root.
3. Avoiding Physical ActivitiesTo ensure the success of your hair transplant, it is important to avoid
strenuous physical activities and heavy lifting for at least the first few weeks. Engaging in such
activities too soon may put stress on the grafts and hinder their proper healing.
4. Hair Growth TimelineYou can expect the transplanted hair to start growing within three to four
months following the surgery. Noticeable results, including fuller hair, typically begin to appear
around six to eight months after the procedure, as the follicles establish themselves.
5. Follow-Up AppointmentsRegular follow-up appointments with your hair restoration specialist
will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise during
your recovery. These visits are vital for ensuring that your healing is on track and that the
results meet your expectations.By following these guidelines and staying in close
communication with your care team, you can optimize your recovery and enjoy the benefits of
your FUE hair transplant.
Is a FUE Hair Transplant Permanent?
A Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant is considered a permanent solution for hair loss.
1. Genetic Resistance: The hair follicles selected for transplantation are genetically resistant to
the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a primary contributor to hair loss. As a result, the
transplanted hair retains its genetic characteristics and continues to grow naturally in the recipient
area throughout the patient's life.
2. Initial Shedding and Growth: It's important to understand that the transplanted hair may
initially shed within the first few weeks following the procedure. This shedding is a normal part of
the hair growth cycle. However, the hair follicles remain intact beneath the surface of the scalp.
New hair growth typically begins within three to four months after the transplant, and over time, the
hair becomes denser, resulting in a fuller and more natural-looking head of hair.
3. Resistance to Hair Loss Factors: Because the transplanted hair follicles are genetically
resistant to hair loss, they are not affected by the same factors that led to your initial hair loss. This
means that, when performed correctly, a well-executed FUE hair transplant can provide a long-
term solution to hair thinning and loss.
4. Consideration of Other Hair Loss Types: It's important to note that FUE may not be effective
in cases of other types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata, where hair follicles may be damaged
for reasons unrelated to DHT. In such cases, a hair transplant might not yield the desired results.
5. Expertise and Aftercare: To ensure the best possible outcomes and achieve long-lasting
results, it is essential to choose a reputable and experienced hair restoration specialist for the FUE
procedure. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments and diligent post-operative care play a
critical role in maintaining the success of the hair transplant and preserving the natural appearance
of the transplanted hair over time.
In summary, FUE hair transplants can provide a permanent solution to hair loss for many
patients, especially when performed under the care of qualified professionals.
