FUT allows for higher graft yield in a single session, making it ideal for individuals seeking maximum coverage. A FUT hair transplant can also provide higher-quality grafts and is faster to complete than a follicular unit extraction (FUE) hair transplant. However, the linear scar from FUT may be a concern for some.
What is a FUT Hair Transplant?
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) or the strip method involves removing a strip of skin from the back of the head. This strip is then divided into individual follicular units, which are transplanted into the balding or thinning areas of the scalp.
This procedure inevitably leaves a linear scar, but it’s usually very thin and can easily be hidden by surrounding hair. When done by a skilled surgeon, the results of a follicular unit hair transplant can be remarkably natural.
Is FUT Hair Transplant Permanent?
Yes, FUT hair transplants are considered permanent. The transplanted follicular units are resistant to dihydrotestosterone or DHT, the hormone strongly linked to male pattern baldness.
Once transplanted, they will continue to grow naturally for the rest of your life. However, the existing hair surrounding the transplanted area may continue to thin over time, especially if you have pattern hair loss. Your surgeon may recommend continued use of hair loss medications like finasteride or minoxidil.
FUT Success Rate: How Effective is FUT?
A FUT hair transplant has a very high success rate, with FUT graft survival rates typically exceeding 90%. This means that a significant majority of the transplanted donor hair will successfully take root and grow.
However, it’s important to remember that individual results may vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s skill, your health, and the overall quality of your donor hair.
Follicular Unit Extraction vs. Follicular Unit Transplantation: Which Is Better?
The best choice between FUT and FUE depends on individual factors like the extent of hair loss, desired results, and personal preferences. An experienced surgeon like Dr. Keene will evaluate your hair loss and discuss your goals, and recommend the best approach to achieve the results you’re looking for.
Here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of each procedure:
FUT Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Allows for a higher graft yield in a single procedure
- Generally more cost-effective than FUE
- Potential for better graft quality, which means higher graft survival
- Often preferred for those seeking maximum hair coverage and density
Cons:
- Leaves a thin linear scar at the donor site, which may be visible with short hairstyles
- Typically requires a longer recovery period compared to FUE due to the nature of the procedure
FUE Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Minimal scarring (Only barely noticeable scars)
- Shorter recovery time than FUT
- Suitable for smaller areas of hair loss and different hair patterns
Cons:
- Can be more time-consuming and generally produces a lesser number of grafts harvested in a single session than FUT
- Typically more expensive than FUT due to the labor-intensive nature of the procedure
- Risk of overharvesting the donor area or going beyond the safe donor area (SDA)
Will I Have Noticeable Scars After a FUT Hair Transplant?
In the initial months post-surgery, short hairstyles could expose the scar. However, an experienced surgeon can minimize scarring using advanced techniques. If you decide to wear your hair short after a follicular unit hair transplantation procedure, an SMP treatment can make the resulting scar less noticeable or even invisible.
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical procedure that involves depositing pigment into the upper layer of the skin to create the appearance of hair follicles. By camouflaging the scar, SMP can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic outcome of your follicular unit transplant.
Follicular Unit Transplantation Cost
Generally, the cost of a FUT hair transplant can range from $4,000 to $15,000 or more. However, individual costs will vary depending on the number of grafts needed, the surgeon’s experience and expertise, the technique used, the clinic’s location, and additional treatments.
It’s important to consult with a qualified hair transplant surgeon like Dr. Keene to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and desired results.
Choosing the Right FUT Surgeon: The Key to Hair Transplant Success
The surgeon you choose for your procedure might be the single most important factor for success. So, the question you should be asking is NOT “How much does it cost?” but “Who is performing the procedure?” This is because your results are only as good as your surgeon’s skill and experience.
The most qualified doctor to perform a hair transplant is a board-certified surgeon in hair restoration. While hair transplant technicians help with preparing and placing grafts, designing the hairline, determining graft distribution, creating recipient sites, and making strategic incisions MUST be performed by the surgeon.
AVOID clinics that let technicians handle these critical steps without direct oversight from a skilled surgeon. Only a qualified surgeon has the training and expertise needed to create natural, aesthetically pleasing results tailored to your unique features.
Other factors to consider when choosing a hair transplant surgeon and clinic in Arizona:
- Is the surgeon highly proficient in both FUE and FUT procedures?
- How much experience does the surgeon have with hair restoration?
- Do their before-and-after photos look recent and show natural-looking results?
- What do reviews and testimonials say about the clinic and surgeon?
- Is there a comprehensive aftercare plan?
- Do you feel comfortable and confident with this surgeon and clinic?
- Are they transparent with the pricing?
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 the most 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 revive 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.
