For many years, the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant method has been the most popular procedure around the world. FUE is the most effective method used in hair transplantation, as it is currently the most advanced technology in the field. It is done without any surgical procedure. The follicular units are extracted one by one from the back side of the head with an 0.7-1 mm circular, microsurgical blade (punch), and then implanted into the balding area. An average of 2,500-3,500 hair grafts can be transplanted in the open area. No stitches are required. The procedure is completed with simple touches and leaves no scarring in the donor region. The FUE hair transplantation is a highly successful procedure that gives a completely natural result. This is one of the methods to stop or prevent hair loss.
While researching the procedure for our article our Beauty and Health Editor consulted with experts at the EstePera Hair Clinic. The clinic originating from Istanbul specializes in hair loss diagnosis and hair transplant in Turkey and is known for innovative procedures as well as affordable prices.
How is FUE hair transplant done?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a popular hair transplantation technique, often chosen for its comfort and minimal invasive nature. In this procedure, individual hair follicles are extracted from a donor area (usually the back of the head where hair is denser) and transplanted to the area experiencing hair loss. One of the key elements in FUE hair transplantation is determining follicle density per square centimeter, which is important in ensuring a natural and even distribution of hair.
One of the major advantages of FUE is its non-surgical nature, which contributes to the comfort of the patient. Unlike more traditional methods, such as strip harvesting transplantation, FUE does not involve the removal of a strip of scalp, thereby avoiding visible scars and reducing recovery time. These attributes make the FUE technique a favoured option at clinics like EstePera.
Despite its less invasive nature, FUE is still a significant medical procedure, and as such, it is crucial that it be conducted in a sterilized hospital environment with proper operating room conditions. This ensures patient safety and the highest standards of care.
How Long is The Procedure
The process of FUE is typically a few hours long, usually taking around 4-5 hours depending on the number of follicles to be transplanted. While it is generally considered a painless procedure, local anesthesia is often used to enhance patient comfort. Post-operative care instructions are provided, which typically involve keeping the scalp clean and avoiding strenuous activities for a short period of time. Overall, FUE is a safe, efficient, and favored method for addressing hair loss.
Return to normal life after FUE hair transplantation
Only one day of rest is requires after completing the FUE procedure. The patient can go back to work the day after the operation. Around the third month after the procedure, the transplanted hair starts to grow and it takes an average of 9 months for the entire hair to grow. Advantages of FUE hair transplant operation
- The FUE method is the latest and most preferred hair transplant method
- It is a much more comfortable operation for both the patient and the physician.
- It is a technique open to technological developments.
- Thanks to the FUE motor technology, operation time is much shorter than other techniques.
- Since no incision is made in operation, the patient can feel comfortable during the operation.
- There is no need to spend extra time for separating the hair follicles.
- In other methods, the patient receives dressing for about 15 days. However, since FUE method does not have stitches, only 3-day dressing is sufficient.
- In the operation, nearly 2700- 3000 grafts, so 6000 hair strands, can be transplanted in a single session.
- Unlike the FUT technique, FUE leaves no scars.
- FUE is available for multiple sessions and multiple grafts.
- In FUE, 85% of patients are treated in a single session. A second session may be required for a patient group of only 15%.
- Operation time is shorter in FUE technique (average 4-6 hours). No extra time is required for separating the grafts.
- The hair follicles taken during the FUE technique are clean and free of residues. Therefore, it is possible to open smaller channels. In this way, there will be no traces in the planting area.
- The patient is discharged with a casual hat without a bandage on his head.
- The patient can resume daily life and even go back to work even after only one day after the operation.
Images from DESIGN SCENE BEAUTY SPECIAL exclusive editorial feature starring model Liz Thompson photographed by fashion photographer Benjamin Kaufmann – See the full story here
