Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a modern technique in the field of hair transplantation that has gained popularity due to its minimally invasive nature and promising results. This method involves the extraction of individual hair follicles from the donor area, typically the back and sides of the head and their subsequent transplantation into the recipient area, which is usually a region experiencing hair thinning or baldness.
The FUE procedure : The FUE procedure begins with the manual removal of groups of 1-4 hair follicles known as grafts, one by one. These grafts are stored in a special solution. Once the extraction procedure is complete, the surgeon uses micro-blades to widen the channels in the recipient area. The grafts of the hair are then inserted into these slits made into the skin or scalp.
Unlike the traditional Follicular Unit Transplantation procedure (FUT), which involves removing a strip of skin to gather the grafts, FUE grafts are made directly from the scalp. The key difference results in no visible scars and produce natural-looking results. In certain establishments, there are state of the art robotic extraction equipment that carry out the extraction of follicles from the donor areas.
Benefits of FUE: One of the most significant benefits of FUE is that it produces no signs of extraction. The procedure is considered safe, with minor possible side effects such as tiny white scars where the follicles were extracted from. In extreme rare cases, there can be infection or tissue death where the surgery was done.
FUE is often done in multiples of 2 to 4 hour sessions over a period of several days. In rare cases, a lengthy session may last 10 to 12 hours. As an outpatient procedure, patients can typically go home after each session.
Post procedure expectations : Patients who have undergone FUE transplant surgery should expect to see hair growth on average 2 months after the procedure. More significant growth will be noticed after a 6 month period, with a full result expected at around 12 to 18 months.
Cost of FUE : The cost of FUE hair transplant can vary widely based on how much hair is being transplanted and how experience your surgeon is. Prices typically range from £2,000 to over £8,000 per session.
FUE has revolutionized the field of hair transplantation, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional methods. With its natural looking results and minimal scarring, no wonder this procedure has become popular for combating hair loss..