FUE vs FUT
Hair transplant procedures and technology have changed drastically over the decades, leading to better results without that “hair plug” look that used to be so common. The two surgical hair restoration processes commonly used today are follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT).
Each process has its advantages. Deciding which one to use depends upon a variety of factors and is best based on a consultation to evaluate your specific hair loss pattern and hair restoration goals.
That said, understanding the differences between FUE and FUT is a key part of being an informed patient. Also note that some doctors also use the term “linear strip excision” (LSE) instead of FUT, but it’s the same process.
What Is FUT?
In a Follicular unit transplantation (FUT) procedure, a small strip of hair follicles is surgically removed from a donor area on your scalp. This is performed under local anesthesia. The hair follicle groupings are then removed from the strip of scalp and transplanted to an area where hair is thinning or gone. An FUT session typically takes between four to eight hours.
Advantages of FUT Hair Restoration
- Shorter overall operation time, because a large number of hair follicles are transplanted at one time;
- Often provides maximum fullness and coverage for balding crowns;
- Generally less expensive because the process is faster.
What Is FUE?
In a Follicular unit extraction (FUE) procedure, individual hair follicles or small follicle groupings are transplanted from a donor area on the scalp to a recipient area. Instead of removing a strip of skin, an FUE procedure involves tiny circular incisions. Because the incisions are so small, they heal more quickly, leaving almost no visible scarring, even with the shortest hair styles.
FUE surgeries can be done manually, or with varying degrees of robotic assistance for enhanced precision. Like FUT, FUE procedures are performed with a local anesthetic, but unlike FUT, FUE often involves two to four sessions.
In robot-assisted FUE procedures, such as those involving the ARTAS® system, your surgeon is able to create a natural-looking hairline that even takes into account the hair follicles’ orientation, angle and growth direction. It all combines to create outstanding results so people will tell you how great you look again.
Advantages of FUE Hair Restoration
- No linear scar.
- Faster healing & recovery time;
- Less discomfort than methods that have larger incision
What is the Difference Between FUE and FUT?
Donor follicle harvesting is a key difference between FUE and FUT techniques, which, in turn, leads to differences in cost, surgery length, and recovery time. Each procedure also has different ideal candidates.
Mollura Medical Hair Restoration has decades of experience in treating hair loss, both surgically and non-surgically. Contact us to schedule your initial consultation so we can analyze your hair and scalp, explain the available treatment options for your specific form of hair loss, and answer all of your questions.
Every result here is one of Dr. Mollura’s own cases.
Graft counts, technique and classification exactly as recorded in the chart. Two patients agreed to tell it on camera.
Before / AfterMinimal vellus hair across the top of the scalp at 25.
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Patient videoHe asked to tell it on camera. Two minutes, his own words.
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Before / AfterHairline back through the crown in one sitting.
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Patient videoFirst procedure 2009, second in 2022. Same surgeon both times.
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Before / AfterTemporal zones and hairline rebuilt. Photographed at nine months.
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Before / AfterFront half first, five years before the second pass.
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Before / AfterFifteen months between the two procedures.
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Before / AfterAfter photograph taken fifteen months post-procedure.
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Before / AfterTemporal zones only. Finasteride prescribed at consultation.
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Before / AfterFUE chosen so he could keep wearing his hair short.
See the full caseIn their words
4.7 across 30 Google reviews · a different 14 of 23, quoted verbatim, every visit“Dr. Molora and his team did an excellent job on my procedure. I am extremely happy with the results and would highly recommend him to others.”
“All of my questions and concerns were answered. I am very pleased with my FUE and the results so far.”
“I have had multiple procedures done with Dr. Mollura. He is a classically trained painter from Rome.”
“Dr. Mollura is an artist as much as he is a doctor. I visited multiple hair restoration facilities, and I am so grateful I found Dr. Mollura.”
“He made me feel very comfortable on every visit to his office. I’m very impressed with his surgical skills, compassion, caring and professionalism.”
“I met Dr. Mollura 14 years ago. After researching many doctors, I determined that Dr. Mollura was the best.”
“Its rare to find someone who balances skill, kindness and attentiveness so seamlessly, and thats what makes Dr. Mollura stand out.”
“During consultation, he gave me a direct, honest and easy to understand breakdown of my hair issues and treatment options.”
“What truly impressed us was the precision with which the hair follicles were placed to ensure they grow in a natural direction.”
“Within a few months there was a noticeable difference. One year later looking at pictures he has a full head of hair.”
“With the help of Dr. Mollura I’ve successfully managed hair loss for years and he’s been nothing but honest and helpful.”
“tells you everything you need to know in what procedure you’re doing & will explain what u can expect. I have gain great results”
“I just had a hair transplant procedure with Dr. Mollura and I honesty cant say enough about him, his staff and his magical hands.”
“At 9 months following the procedure, I have results that have exceeded my expectations and can expect some additional improvement.”
Photographs are of actual patients of Mollura Medical Hair Restoration, published with consent. Individual results vary and are not guaranteed. A consultation with Dr. Mollura is required to determine whether a procedure is appropriate.