Does FUE leave scars? The answer is yes. All hair transplant procedures do, including FUT and DHI. However, FUE scars are minimal and virtually undetectable to the naked eye. These scars are so discreet that even with short hairstyles, they’re hardly noticeable.
In this article, we will explain what FUE hair transplant scars might look like, how fast they heal, and ways to minimize any FUE scarring.
The FUE Hair Transplant Procedure
FUE, or Follicular Unit Extraction, is a minimally invasive hair transplant technique that involves extracting individual hair follicles directly from the donor area, typically the back or sides of the head.
This procedure usually requires shaving the donor area to allow the surgeon better access to the hair grafts. If you prefer not to wear your hair short or shave it, you should discuss alternative options, such as FUT, with your surgeon.
A hair graft is a small piece of tissue that contains follicular units, which typically include 1 to 4 hair follicles, depending on the natural grouping of your hair. A small, specialized punch tool (about 0.7 to 1.0 mm in diameter) is used to extract these follicular units, which are then implanted into thinning or balding areas of the scalp.
As the surgeon extracts the follicular units (FUE hair grafts), tiny circular scars are left at the extraction sites. However, these scars are so small that they are barely visible once healed, even with short hairstyles. Unlike the strip FUT procedure, FUE does not involve removing a strip of skin from the donor area, resulting in minimal scarring, faster healing, and fewer risks.
Is It Possible to Have a “Scarless” FUE Hair Transplant?
While some clinics call FUE a “scarless” hair transplant procedure, this is not true. Even with the most advanced techniques and tools, FUE will leave scars but they are tiny and only minimal. The term “scarless” can be misleading because every surgical procedure, including FUE, results in some degree of scarring.
If you’re concerned about FUE scars, one of the best ways to make them even more undetectable is through scalp micropigmentation (SMP). It’s a non-surgical treatment that uses specialized pigments to mimic the look of hair follicles. By applying microdots to the scalp, it creates the illusion of fuller hair and camouflages any visible FUE scars.
FUE Hair Transplant Scars Close-Up Photo
FUE scars are small, circular marks where hair grafts are extracted. Right after surgery, they may look like tiny red dots, which is normal. Over the next few weeks, the redness fades, and the scars shrink into tiny, barely visible marks. After 1 to 2 months, the scars should be hard to see.
FUE Scars After 1 Year. See how the incision sites heal beautifully in this FUE procedure. After 1 year, the FUE hair transplant scars are no longer visible. Surgeon: Dr. Sharon Keene.
What Can Go Wrong?
- Scars that are uneven or larger than expected
- Persistent redness, swelling, or tenderness (could signal infection)
- Scars that remain visible after hair grows back
If you notice any of these issues, reach out to your surgeon. With proper care and the guidance of an experienced surgeon like Dr. Keene, FUE scars heal quickly and are virtually invisible once your hair grows.
Can Women Get a FUE Hair Transplant?
Yes, FUE works just as well for women as it does for men. It’s a great option for treating thinning hair, receding hairlines, or conditions like androgenetic or traction alopecia.
However, a major consideration is that FUE often requires shaving the donor area, which might not be ideal if you prefer longer hairstyles. Some surgeons offer No Shave FUE or partial shaving to make the process less noticeable.
If you’re considering FUE for women, a consultation with an experienced, female hair transplant doctor like Dr. Sheen can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.
Female FUE Hair Transplant Before and After Photos
This female patient received 2000+ grafts with a FUE procedure at the Physician’s Hair Institute. With Dr. Keene’s advanced FUE technique and expert guidance, she now looks 10 years younger! It’s amazing what a hair transplant can do. See more transformations like this in our results gallery.
How Many Grafts Will I Need for FUE?
The number of grafts you’ll need for FUE depends on your hair loss and desired density. Mild cases, like a receding hairline, may require 500–1,000 grafts, while moderate thinning might need 1,500–2,500. Severe hair loss can take 3,000 or more grafts.
Dr. Keene will evaluate your scalp and donor area to recommend the right number to achieve your desired results. Take a look at these FUE before-and-after photos showcasing different amounts of coverage:
Dr. Sharon Keene: Top Hair Transplant Surgeon Tucson & Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. Sharon Keene is a board-certified hair transplant surgeon at the Physician’s Hair Institute in Tucson and Scottsdale, Arizona. She specializes in creating natural-looking hair transplant results using advanced FUT and FUE techniques.
With 20+ years of surgical experience, Dr. Keene has helped thousands of men and women renew their hair and confidence. Call today to schedule your consultation. We serve patients in and around Tucson and Scottsdale, AZ, including Phoenix, Chandler, Glendale, Paradise Valley, and Mesa.
Watch: Hair Transplant Mentor Calls Dr. Keene the Best Hair Transplant Doctor in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does FUE hair transplant take to heal?
Initial healing takes about 7–14 days, with redness and scabbing fading within the first week. The donor and recipient areas fully heal in 3–4 months.
Does hair regrow in donor area after FUE?
Yes, the surrounding hair in the donor area continues to grow, filling in the tiny extraction sites. While the exact follicles removed won’t regrow, the area heals seamlessly, leaving no visible gaps.
How long does FUE last?
FUE results are permanent because the transplanted hair comes from areas resistant to hair loss, like the back and sides of the head. These follicles keep growing naturally for a lifetime. However, Dr. Keene may recommend finasteride or minoxidil to prevent further hair loss and maintain overall density.
