Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a hair transplant technique that involves extracting individual hair follicles from a donor part of the body, usually the sides and back of the head, and transplanting them onto the balding areas. The procedure is minimally invasive and leaves no linear scars. It is a popular hair restoration method because it provides natural-looking results. The cost of FUE hair transplant varies depending on the number of grafts required and the location of the clinic.
Safety:
- The FUE procedure is considered safe with minor possible side effects, such as tiny white scars where follicles were extracted. In extremely rare cases, there can be infection or tissue death where the surgery was done.
- You may experience temporary side effects that go away a few days after treatment. Side effects may include swelling, bruising, and sensitivity.
Convenience:
- FUE is often done in multiple 2 to 4 hour sessions over the course of several days. In rare cases, a “mega session” may last 10 to 12 hours.
- FUE is an outpatient procedure, so you can typically go home after each procedure.
- You don’t have to interrupt your daily routine too much after FUE. But don’t immerse the area in water or do any rigorous exercise for about a week.
- Almost any type of surgeon is qualified to do a hair transplant surgery. You may want to consult with a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss or is certified in hair transplant surgery.
How does a FUE hair transplant work?
As you get older, the three-phase cycle of hair growth and regrowth shortens until follicles no longer regrow hairs.
This process is different for everyone. Some people start balding in their 20s, while others bald much later in life.
FUE hair transplants restore hair by replacing these old follicles with new follicles that are still able to grow hair.
After the transplant, the follicles will be nourished by blood vessels and begin growing hair in the area that previously had thin hair or balding.
Procedure for FUE hair transplant
Here’s how the FUE procedure works:
- Your surgeon will shave down the hair in the area where follicles will be removed as well as around the transplant area.
- Using a micropunch tool, they will remove follicles from your skin.
- Your surgeon will then make a series of tiny incisions with a needle or other small, sharp tool where the extracted follicles will be inserted.
- They’ll insert the follicles into the incisions.
- Your surgeon will clean and bandage the area for recovery.
Targeted areas for treatment
FUE hair transplants are most commonly performed on the scalp.
They can also be done elsewhere on your body where hair is thin or absent. FUE can be done on your arms, legs, and even your genital area.
Are there any risks or side effects?
You won’t experience any scars from a FUE hair transplant other than tiny white dots where follicles were taken out. These may fade over time.