Learn about the 6 steps of FUE.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a surgical hair transplantation technique used to address hair loss or baldness. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves extracting individual hair follicles from a donor area and transplanting them into the recipient area where hair is thinning or missing.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the FUE hair transplant surgery:

6 Steps of FUE Hair Transplant
  1. Donor Area Identification: The first step is identifying the donor area, which is typically the back or sides of the scalp. These areas are chosen because they usually have a good supply of healthy hair follicles that are resistant to balding.
  2. Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb both the donor and recipient areas of the scalp. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.
  3. Follicle Extraction: Using a small, specialized instrument like a microneedle or a punch tool, the surgeon individually extracts hair follicles from the donor area. Each follicle contains one to four hairs, and they are carefully removed without causing significant damage to the surrounding tissue.
6 Steps of FUE Hair Transplant Surgery

4. Incision Creation: Once enough follicles have been extracted, tiny incisions are made in the recipient area where the hair will be transplanted. These incisions are made with precision to ensure proper angulation and natural-looking results.

5. Implantation: The extracted hair follicles are then carefully implanted into the recipient area. The surgeon pays close attention to the direction, angle, and density of the transplanted hairs to ensure they blend seamlessly with the existing hair and achieve a natural appearance.

6. Post-Transplant Care: After the procedure, the patient is provided with instructions on how to care for the transplanted area. This may include guidelines on washing the scalp, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and taking prescribed medications to aid the healing process.

One of the significant advantages of FUE hair transplant surgery is that it does not leave a linear scar, unlike the traditional strip method (FUT). Instead, FUE leaves small, scattered, dot-like scars that are less noticeable, especially when the hair grows back. The recovery period is relatively short, with most patients able to resume their normal activities within 10 – 14 days.

It’s worth noting that the success of a hair transplant depends on various factors, including the surgeon’s skill, the patient’s overall health, the quality of the donor hair, and realistic expectations. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced hair transplant specialist to determine if FUE or any other treatment option is suitable for your specific case.