What is the Follicular Unit Extraction Method?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) represents a modern iteration of the conventional Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) technique, wherein the implantation of follicular units into the recipient area remains consistent, ensuring a natural transplant growth without the appearance of “plugginess.”
The differentiating factor lies in the method of harvesting hair from the donor area. In contrast to FUT, which involves excising a strip of hair, suturing the area, and then dissecting follicular units under a microscope, FUE individually removes follicular units one by one. Consequently, no wounds require suturing, and microscopic dissection is unnecessary.
The FUE procedure entails using a 0.8mm – 1 mm punch around a single follicular unit to create a small circular incision through the skin. The follicular unit is gently extracted from the loose connective tissue underneath the skin. Once removed, no additional preparation is needed, and the small hole naturally heals over one to two weeks. This process is repeated numerous times until the desired number of follicular units are obtained, leaving the patient with multiple 0.8mm – 1 mm round white scars, as opposed to a linear scar associated with FUT.
Advocates of FUE emphasise less noticeable scarring and the absence of scalp tightness, a common issue in FUT due to tissue suturing. However, FUE has notable drawbacks, including the challenge of performing large sessions efficiently. The slow and tedious nature of extractions may necessitate multiple-day sessions for patients seeking significant coverage.
A theoretical concern with FUE is the potential impact on long-term growth. During extractions, follicular units are gently torn from underlying tissues, and the absence of the deepest component of connective tissue beneath the follicles may lead to weakening over time. The novelty of this technique makes long-term outcomes uncertain.
Patients must also be aware that scarring is inevitable in the donor area, albeit in a different form. FUE results in numerous tiny round scars, which may be preferable or not, depending on specific patient characteristics, such as scalp tightness, scarring tendencies, and hair loss patterns.
In conclusion, while FUT has historically served its purpose, both the Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) technique and FUE offer superior results at a similar cost. Therefore, patients can receive more effective treatment and better outcomes with these advanced techniques.
Patient Testimonials
Aside from achieving fantastic results, we believe that keeping in touch with our patients before, during and after their hair transplantation procedure is paramount – it helps to keep our patients feeling calm and in control. We’re always on hand to provide guidance, support and aftercare advice. Time and again, our patients tell us that this is what sets us apart from other clinics.
You can read our great reviews of FUE hair transplants over on Google and TrustPilot
Ryan A04/10/2023My experience so far has been very good. The staff were professional and friendly and put me at ease. The day went really smoothly - after the injections the whole procedure was pain free. Would recommend this practice.
Abbigayle Pace29/09/2023I would like to thank James who has been amazing leading up to my surgery always answering my queries and getting back to me straight away. The day of the surgery the girls were so lovely and nice and made me feel very comfortable before and during the surgery. I am currently 5 weeks post off and so far everything going well thank you Harley street
Jammiedodger 6226/05/2023I had my hair transplant in April and can honestly say the experience was the most pleasant. Everyone was professional and went to their utmost to make me feel comfortable and relaxed especially when they could tell how nervous I was. The skill of my surgeon and accompanying medical was without question the best. I healed quickly and near pain free due to their recommendation and knowledge. I would recommend harley Street to anyone considering a hair transplant and also to just arrange a call even if you're unsure as they will answer all your questions clearly and highly informative.
