Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

Name: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Brand: Dr. Wolfeld
Rating: 4.7 (58 reviews)

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) is a hair restoration procedure that is based on the same concept as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Both are designed to take hair from healthy donor areas of the scalp and place it in areas where hair has thinned, making it possible for new hair to grow.

Dr. Wolfeld and patient during consultation

FUE vs. FUT Hair Transplants

The two techniques differ in the way that the hair is harvested before it is transplanted, with differences in treatment outcome and the recovery.

In FUE, units of one to four hairs (hair follicles) are harvested from the scalp, one at a time.
The FUT procedure is done by removing a strip of tissue and then separating multiple units for transplantation from the strip.

How is Follicular Unit Transplantation Done?

In a FUT transplant, the surgeon will remove a thin strip of hair from a donor area in the back or sides of your head. The sides of the area from which the strip was removed are brought back together. When this heals, a thin scar (1-2 mm wide) will form. The closure is done in such a way that hair will be able to grow through the scar.

Next, individual follicular units are harvested from the strip using microscopic dissection techniques. After harvesting, these individual follicular units, which contain nerves, oil glands, and muscle, are transplanted to the target areas. For some cases of severe balding, this may be the most effective method.

Why Choose Dr. Wolfeld?

The success of any cosmetic procedure reflects the skill of the surgeon. Dr. Michael Wolfeld brings a rare combination of experience to his work. He is the first hair restoration provider in the country who is certified in both hair restoration and plastic surgery.

At a boutique practice in New York City that is focused strictly on hair restoration, he draws upon deep knowledge of technique and aesthetics to achieve exceptional results. He is one of the best hair restoration doctors in New York, a fact that is reflected in many referrals from past patients.

How to Sleep After a Hair Transplant

What Can I Expect During Recovery?

You may experience soreness or bruising following FUT. Your donor area will have been closed with sutures or staples and will be covered by a dressing. The treated area will be red or pinkish for about a week, and you will notice some scabbing. For the first few days you will need to sleep with your head elevated and take care not to touch, scratch or rub the transplanted areas.

Strenuous exercise should be avoided, and you’ll want to avoid putting tension on the donor area for about a month. You’ll need to protect your head from sunlight for several months. Additional simple precautions will be required along the way; your hair doctor will guide you through this period.

Follicular Unit Transplantation FAQ

Many questions can arise about any surgical procedure. Here are some common ones regarding FUT.

Am I a Candidate?

How Many Grafts Will I Need?

How Long Will the Surgery Take?

When Will I See Results?

Am I a Candidate?

Other than the need to have good general health, the main consideration may have to do with your preference regarding your hairstyle. The procedure will leave a scar in the back of your head that may be visible if your hair is too short. We offer more advanced techniques, including the ARTAS Hair Studio, which may produce a more attractive outcome, and allow you to wear your hair however you want with confidence.

How Many Grafts Will I Need?

This is dependent on the size of the area that you want to cover and the density of coverage you want to achieve. The number could range from hundreds to thousands but remember – each “unit” is only one to four hairs.

How Long Will the Surgery Take?

The procedure will require a number of hours, perhaps as many as ten if a large number of grafts are required. Your surgeon will be able to give a more precise answer after evaluating the current condition of your hair and scalp.

When Will I See Results?

You will begin to notice new growth within six months, and within a year the true results of your surgery will be visible.