FUE vs FUT: Comparing Hair Transplantation Methods
When it comes to modern hair transplant techniques, there are two primary methods for extracting hair follicles during the transplant procedure: Follicular unit extraction (FUE) and Follicular unit transplantation (FUT).
These two procedures are similar in that they both offer completely natural-looking results. The implantation process is identical: Each follicular graft is placed artistically one by one in the recipient or thinning areas. The primary difference between FUE and FUT is the way in which hair follicles are extracted from the back of your head (also known as the “donor area”).
However, there are other key differences between the two methods to consider. Read on to learn more about the differences between FUE and FUT, or schedule a free consultation with a Bosley hair restoration expert for personalized advice on which procedure is best for you.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) vs Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Extraction | Implantation | Healing | Scarring | Must shave head? | Cost | |
FUE | Follicular unit grafts are removed individually | Grafts are transplanted individually | Recovery takes a few days, typically faster than FUT | Leaves no linear scar | Only the donor area, with Bosley’s Partial Shave-Free FUE | Determined per graft |
FUT | Follicular unit grafts are removed via a thin strip of tissue | Grafts are transplanted individually | Recovery takes a few days | Leaves a linear scar that is typically covered by hair worn 1/2 inch in length. | No-shave procedure | Typically costs less per graft than FUE |
How Hair Follicles Are Extracted
In the FUE procedure, Bosley physicians extract individual hair follicles using Bosley’s proprietary SmartHarvest™ technique, which involves strategically extracting grafts to avoid overharvesting so the back of your head doesn’t look thin or patchy.
It may take one to four hours for your Bosley care team to complete this meticulous extraction process.
In the FUT procedure, all the hair is removed at once by your Bosley care team via a strip of tissue in a quick and simple process that takes 15 to 30 minutes. The hair is then prepped for implantation into the recipient area.
Only follicles that are judged to have the highest chance of survival are selected for implantation. This step is crucial for the final outcome.
How Follicles Are Prepared for Implantation
As part of both methods, your follicular grafts are prepped for placement by a team of skilled technicians working with a high-powered stereo microscope. The trained technicians prepare the follicular grafts and ensure that they remain in optimal condition until transplanted.
How Hair Follicles Are Implanted
In both the FUE and FUT procedures, when the follicular grafts are ready, small incisions are made in your thinning areas (recipient areas) that match your natural hair growth pattern.
Your Bosley physician and medical team will strategically place the follicular grafts one by one with great artistry, according to the number of hairs within each follicle, to maximize the naturalness, density, and coverage of the thinning areas.
Your Procedure Experience & Healing
Both FUT and FUE are simple one visit, one day office procedures. Your Bosley patient care team takes great care to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. You can watch TV, check out a movie, or listen to your favorite music while they work. Healing is prompt with both procedures – full cosmetic recovery takes 3-7 days.
Is There Scarring?
FUE procedures don’t require stitches, and the tiny extraction sites leave virtually no detectable scars. These sites are easily concealed with longer, neighboring hair and will heal by themselves, typically within three to seven days. The FUE procedure is preferred by those who want to wear their hair very short.
An FUT procedure leaves a fine linear scar that is typically covered by hair worn at least 1/2 inch in length.
Do I Need to Shave My Head?
With the Bosley Partial Shave-Free FUE, you don’t have to shave your entire head to get a hair transplant. Bosley’s signature FUE technique keeps the hair on top of your head intact so you can return to your normal look in a matter of days. This makes your procedure virtually undetectable. Your technician will trim or shave the donor area short to facilitate follicular unit extraction.
An FUT hair transplant is always a no-shave procedure.
FUE vs FUT Hair Transplant Cost
With a Bosley hair transplant, you can get your real hair back for good for as low as $134 a month. That said, hair transplant costs are calculated on a per-graft basis and vary based on individual needs and the specific procedure.
Compared to FUE, FUT typically costs less per graft.
Deciding on the Best Hair Transplant Method
At the end of the day, the choice between having an FUE and an FUT procedure is up to you and your Bosley physician. Your physician will help you with your decision, based on hair loss classification, the size of the thinning area, and the quality and quantity of your available donor hair.
No one technique is right for everyone. Bosley surgeons have extensive training in both techniques. See a Bosley surgeon to discuss which might be better for your particular situation.
To learn more about your hair restoration options, download Bosley’s FREE guidebook, The Complete Book on Hair Restoration, to see how great your hair can look. Or schedule a free consultation with a Bosley specialist today.
What to do next?
To learn more about your hair restoration options and the average hair transplant timeline, The Complete Book on Hair Restoration, to see how great your hair can look. If you’re ready to do something about that bald spot or thinning hair now, schedule a FREE in-person or video consultation with a trained Bosley hair restoration specialist. Together with a Bosley Physician, we can help you find out what’s causing your balding and what treatment solution is right for you.