Is FUT Hair Transplant Worth It?

For individuals experiencing hair loss or baldness, a hair transplant can help restore confidence and a full head of hair. There are two main techniques used for hair transplants – follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE). In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of FUT hair transplants to help you determine if this procedure is right for you.

What is FUT Hair Transplant?

FUT, also known as the strip method, is the traditional hair transplant technique that has been used since the 1990s. It involves surgically removing a strip of skin from the back of the scalp that contains healthy hair follicles. The strip is then dissected to isolate individual grafts which contain 1-4 hairs. Once extracted, the grafts are carefully implanted into the balding areas on the scalp.

Here is a quick overview of how FUT works:

• The surgeon determines the number of grafts needed to achieve desired fullness. Local anesthesia is administered.

• A strip of skin containing hair follicles is surgically removed from the back of the scalp. This leaves a linear scar that is covered by surrounding hair.

• The strip is dissected to isolate individual grafts under a microscope. Technicians make small incisions in the recipient area and carefully implant the grafts.

• Over the next few months, the transplanted hair falls out and new hair grows in its place. Results become visible within 6-9 months.

Now let’s explore the key pros and cons of FUT hair transplants.

Pros of FUT Hair Transplants

High Graft Yield

FUT allows surgeons to extract the maximum number of grafts from the donor area in a single session. The strip can be dissected to isolate thousands of grafts. This high yield enables the surgeon to transplant more hairs in one session, leading to better fullness.

Natural Results

Since individual follicular units are transplanted containing 1-4 hairs, the results look very natural. The distribution, density and direction of hair growth mimics your natural hair.

Works Well for Major Baldness

The high number of grafts makes FUT ideal for patients with extensive male pattern baldness. It can restore hair to the entire top of the scalp including the hairline in one session.

Permanent Solution

The transplanted hair is resistant to the baldness process so the results are permanent. The hair will continue to grow just like the rest of your natural hair. FUT requires just one surgery.

Minimal Scarring

A linear scar is left at the back of the scalp after the strip is removed. However, since it is low on the back of the head it can be easily hidden by surrounding hair.

Cons of FUT Hair Transplants

Invasive Surgery

FUT is a complex surgical procedure requiring the removal of a skin strip under anesthesia. This leads to longer recovery times. There may be pain, swelling and discomfort after surgery.

Risk of Scarring

While the linear scar can be hidden by hair, some patients may experience wider scarring or poor healing which makes the scar more visible. This can limit options for very short hairstyles.

Limitations in Donor Hair

The donor area has a finite amount of hair. Large bald areas may require multiple sessions to get desired density. This adds to the cost. With FUT, the donor area used in one session cannot be reused.

Possible Numbness

The removal of the donor strip can damage sensory nerves leading to numbness around the scar. This is usually temporary but occasionally permanent.

Require touch-ups

While the initial results look great, some patients may need minor touch up procedures down the road as your natural hair continues to thin with age.

Who is a Good Candidate for FUT?

FUT hair transplantation works well for:

• Patients with extensive male pattern baldness looking to restore hair to the entire top of the scalp.

• Individuals who are comfortable with a more invasive surgical procedure and longer recovery times.

• Patients who have very curly hair since the strip excision prevents damage to follicles.

• Individuals wanting to maximize the number of grafts transplanted in one session.

• Patients wanting natural looking results and are not concerned about linear donor scarring.

• Those open to wearing longer hairstyles to conceal scarring.

How to Prepare for a FUT Hair Transplant

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth FUT procedure and optimal results. Here are some tips:

• Have a consultation – Meet with your surgeon to agree on realistic goals and develop a customized surgical plan. Discuss your medical history.

• Take medications – Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to reduce risk of infection. Start taking them 1-week prior.

• Avoid blood thinners – Stop medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, etc. for 1 week beforehand as they increase bleeding.

• Quit smoking – Smoking impedes blood flow and healing. Stop smoking for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery.

• Cut short your hair – Your surgeon needs access to the scalp so cut your hair very short before the procedure.

• Arrange for help – You will need someone to drive you home after surgery and help you out for 1-2 days during recovery.

• Stock up on supplies – Buy extra pillows, ice packs, pain relievers, etc. to aid healing after the transplant.

What to Expect During FUT Surgery

Here is an overview of what you can expect during your actual surgery:

• You will be given Valium to relax you before surgery. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

• Your surgeon will shave hair from the donor and recipient areas to prep the scalp.

• After administering anesthesia, your surgeon will remove a narrow strip of skin from the back of your scalp. This takes about 60-90 minutes.

• Technicians will dissect the strip into individual follicular units containing 1-4 hairs under microscopes. This is very meticulous.

• Using small blades and needles, the surgeon will make hundreds of tiny recipient sites and carefully implant each graft. This step takes several hours.

• Your scalp will be bandaged when the implantation is complete. Your FUT surgery may take 6-8 hours in total.

FUT Hair Transplant Recovery Timeline

You can expect the following during your recovery period:

Day 1: Head wrapped in bandages. Prescription pain medications will help with discomfort. Sleep with your head elevated on pillows.

Day 2-4: Bandages removed. Swelling and bruising peaks around day 2-3. Side effects like numbness, itching and pain are common. Shower cap when washing.

Day 5-7: Scabs start falling off. Swelling goes down. Bruising starts fading. Pain should subside. Avoid strenuous activity.

Week 2: Most patients feel normal besides some numbness. Transplanted hair sheds – this is expected! Avoid sun exposure.

Month 1-4: Transplanted follicles enter resting phase. Shedding finishes around month 3. No visible hair yet.

Month 4-8: New hair growth initiates slowly. Gradually, the transplanted hair starts to grow back.

Month 9-12+: Results fully visible! Your new hair continues thickening and growing. Enjoy your restored locks!

FUT Hair Transplant Results

You can enjoy natural looking results after an FUT hair transplant. The success depends on various factors:

• The hairs transplanted using FUT are permanent and resistant to hair loss. As long as the grafts are placed properly in the recipient area and take hold, the results should last for a lifetime.

• Results are visible after about 8-12 months as the new hair grows back in. Maximal hair growth is seen around month 18.

• Results improve over multiple years – the transplanted hair keeps getting thicker and fuller over time.

• In experienced hands, FUT transplants can restore a head full of natural hair even in severe baldness. However, multiple sessions may be needed for extensive coverage.

• The surgeon’s technique and artistry are vital. A skilled, meticulous surgeon will deliver fuller, natural looking results.

• Following proper aftercare is key to successful graft survival and growth. Protecting the grafts while they heal improves outcomes.

Is FUT Worth the Cost?

FUT hair transplant cost can range from $4,000 to $15,000 depending on the number of grafts needed for your goals. While not cheap, in the hands of the right surgeon, the investment is well worth it for permanent, natural results and restored confidence. Poor quality procedures can lead to an unnatural, pluggy appearance. Do your research to choose a top-rated clinic.

The bottom line is that FUT offers excellent outcomes for the right candidates. If you are comfortable with the linear scarring and recovery downtime, FUT provides a permanent solution to restore your hair seamlessly. Meet with reputable surgeons to decide if it is the optimal technique for your specific needs and expectations. With realistic planning