FUT or FUE – Which Is The Better Hair Transplant?

Hair Transplant is one of the most popular procedures right now. It is a beacon of hope for anyone who dreams of having a head full of hair. Of the many hair transplant techniques present, FUT and FUE are most popular. FUT is one of the oldest methods of hair transplantation, and FUE is relatively new. To know which of them is better, it is necessary to understand both. In this blog, we highlight the key areas of differences and similarities among both the hair transplant techniques along with their pros and cons, and hope to conclude which of them is better.

Hair Transplant Techniques

Simply put, Hair Transplant is the procedure where hair is taken from one part of the head and planted onto the bald areas. Hair is extracted from loss-resistant areas of the head, usually the back of the head, and in some cases, the body. The primary difference between the hair transplant techniques FUT and FUE lies in how the hair follicles are extracted. 

Follicular Unit Transplantation/Strip (FUT)

FUT is the oldest method of extracting hair follicles. It involves removing a strip of skin from the donor area (usually the back of the head). This is why it is also called as Strip Method.

This strip is then divided into individual grafts of hair follicles composed of 1-4 hairs.

These grafts are then planted on the bald areas.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

FUE is the method where hair follicles are extracted individually. The donor area is shaved and a small punch tool is used to remove layers of the skin for precise extraction. Follicular hair grafts are then extracted. These grafts can then be directly planted onto the bald spot.

Advantages

• FUT
• Less expensive when compared to FUE
• No need to shave the whole head
• Shorter surgery time
• Suitable for larger bald spots

• FUE
• More comfortable post-operation
• Minimal recovery time
• No linear scar
• Suitable for smaller spots
• Leaves dot like scars which are hidden by hair

Disadvantages

• FUT
• Requires a stitched closure of the donor site.
•  Might leave a linear scar
• Longer healing time
• Discomfort might last for up to 2 weeks

• FUE
• Expensive
• Longer operative time
• Shaving required
• Number of grafts that can be extracted per day is limited, Hence, extensive baldness may require multiple sessions

Which is better?

Both FUT and FUE have advantages and disadvantages. One technique cannot be estimated to be superior to the other. The decision of choosing one technique over the other is up to you and the surgeon. A skilled hair transplant surgeon would access your hair, pattern of baldness, hair type, scalp health and other medical conditions and help you decide which is best for you. With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. VS Rathore, is the number one hair transplant surgeon in Kolkata. His clinic, “Kaayakalp” is the best hair transplant clinic in Kolkata with affordable costs. Kaayakalp takes utmost care in providing you the best services. He, along with his highly experienced team and well-equipped units promises to offer you a stress-free solution for all your hair worries.