Hair restoration with transplantation has been used for over a half century, but it has changed dramatically in the last decade. Hair loss impacts millions of people every year, which is why so much effort has been applied to finding a solution. Two of the biggest breakthroughs in hair loss treatment and transplantation are follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT). Both can obtain excellent results in transplanting a patient’s hair, but there are differences in technique, time, cost and long-term results.
What Is FUT?
Between FUT and FUE, follicular unit transplantation was the first method to be used. This method of hair transplantation began to be used in the 1990s and is a refinement of the “strip” technique that was used in the 1970s and 1980s. FUT has been considered the gold standard in hair transplantation for the last few decades, as it greatly improved the success rate and appearance for patients with hair loss. More healthy hair follicles could be removed and transplanted than ever before.
The downside of FUT is the linear incisions needed to harvest the strips of hair grafts. While this method is effective, patients will have linear scars in the donor area of the scalp, which can be a cosmetic concern for many people.
What Is FUE?
Follicular unit extraction, or FUE, evolved from FUT. The basic concept is the same, but instead of removing strips of hair follicles through incision, FUE involves extracting the follicles manually or with robotic tools that use pneumatic pressure. Fewer hair follicles are removed at a time – usually 1-4 with the NeoGraft® pneumatic system – but no incisions or sutures are needed. This means no visible scarring in the donor area and less discomfort for the patient.
The Differences?
The key differences between FUT and FUE are in the scarring, cost and time needed for the procedure. FUE has the benefit of no visible scarring, but manual FUE can require much more time and expense than FUT due to the slower method. A hybrid of the two is the NeoGraft pneumatic system, which improves the speed and accuracy of the FUE method for a more cost-effective and time-efficient procedure with the no-scar benefits.
At Pasadena Hair Transplant, we utilize the NeoGraft FUE method with fantastic results for our patients. If you are interested in learning more about scalp or facial hair restoration in the Pasadena, Glendale and greater Los Angeles area, call our clinic today.