Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) is a hair transplantation method that involves taking a strip of hair-containing skin, usually from the back or sides of the scalp, from the donor area, and then dissecting this strip into individual follicular units, which typically contain 1-4 hairs, before transplanting them into bald or thinning areas of the scalp.
FUT hair transplant has been used for many years and is still a reliable and effective way to restore hair to the scalp. In this article, we will take a closer look at the FUT hair transplant method, how it works, and what to expect from the procedure.
How Does FUT Hair Transplantation Work?
FUT hair transplant is typically a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, the hair transplant surgeon will make a long and thin incision in the donor area and then remove a strip of skin containing hair. The incision is then closed with stitches or staples, leaving a fine linear scar that can be concealed by the surrounding hair.
The strip of scalp is then dissected into individual follicular units under a microscope. The surgeon carefully separates the follicular units, which include hair follicles and surrounding tissues, and prepares them for transplantation.
In the recipient area, the surgeon will make small incisions or wounds in the scalp and then carefully place the prepared follicular units into the incisions. The surgeon typically places the follicular units in a strategic pattern to mimic natural hair growth.
The FUT hair transplant method can take several hours, depending on the degree of hair loss and the number of follicular units that need to be transplanted.
Benefits of FUT Hair Transplantation
One of the primary benefits of the FUT hair transplant method is the ability to obtain a high number of grafts (follicular units) in a single session. Because the surgeon is able to remove a strip of scalp, they can typically obtain more grafts than with other methods, such as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
FUT hair transplant can also produce very natural-looking results when performed by an experienced and skilled hair transplant surgeon. Because the follicular units are placed strategically in a pattern that mimics natural hair growth, the transplanted hair can blend in seamlessly with the surrounding hair.
Additionally, FUT hair transplant is a relatively straightforward procedure with a relatively short recovery period. Patients can typically resume normal activities within a few days and can expect to see new hair growth within a few months.
Potential Drawbacks of FUT Hair Transplantation
One of the main drawbacks of FUT hair transplant is the linear scar that is left in the donor area. While the scar can typically be concealed by surrounding hair, it can be visible if the patient’s hair is cut short. However, there are techniques that can be used to minimize the visibility of the scar, such as trichophytic closure, in which the edges of the incision are trimmed in a way that allows hair to grow through the scar.
FUT hair transplant can also be more invasive than other hair transplant methods, as it involves a surgical incision and suturing. This can lead to a longer recovery period and increased discomfort or pain.
Conclusion
FUT hair transplant is a reliable and effective hair restoration method that can produce natural-looking results. While the procedure does have some potential drawbacks, such as the linear scar in the donor area, these can typically be minimized with proper technique and management. If you are considering FUT hair transplant, it is important to choose an experienced and skilled hair transplant