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What is FUE ?
FUE stands for Follicular Unit Extraction. In this technique hair follicular grafts are individually extracted from the scalp donor site. They then undergo inspection and preparation under the microscope and are then ready to be transplanted into the balding area of the scalp. It is a very tedious, timely and exacting process.
What is FUT ?
FUT or Follicular Unit Transplantation is also known as the strip procedure. In this technique, a hair containing strip of skin from the back of the scalp is removed. The strip is then cut and prepared into individual units which are then transplanted into the areas of thinning or baldness. The donor site leaves a linear scar in the back of the scalp which is easily covered by surrounding hair.
Which is better, FUT or FUE Hair transplant?
The question of which is better, FUT or FUE is frequently raised. Both techniques when performed by a very experienced team can lead to excellent results. The advantage of FUE’s is the absence of any linear scar which is especially important in patients who crop their hair short in the back of the scalp. Also, no donor site sutures are used. The disadvantages of FUE”s is that the procedure is more time consuming and, therefore, a bit more expensive. Also, because there must be space left between the follicular unit extractions, less donor hair can be removed and, therefore, less grafts available for transplantation. The advantages of FUT’s are that it is less time consuming, and therefore, a bit less expensive. Also, because an entire strip is removed more grafts can be transplanted in one procedure. The disadvantage of using FUT’s is the presence of a linear scar in the donor site. However, when the donor site is closed using an excellent plastic surgical closure and with proper healing, the scar can be negligible. Also, sutures are used in the donor site which need to be removed
What is the recovery after FUE and FUT hair transplant procedure?
The recovery following either of the procedures is similar. The transplanted grafts will have scabbing for 1-2 weeks after which they wall off. The FUE donor sites are usually covered by regrown hair after about 2 weeks and, therefore, are not noticeable. Following FUT grafting the linear donor site sutures need to be removed after about 2 weeks. A Medrol dose pack which is a steroid is used in both procedures which help minimize swelling.
When are results seen following FUT and FUE?
Results using both procedures are seen in same time frame. Initially, there will loss of the transplanted hair in the first 2-3 weeks. After about 3-4 months newly grown hair will be seen. The full impact of the hair transplantation will be appreciated after 9-12 months.
How to decide if FUE or FUT is the right choice for me?
Deciding which technique is the right choice for the patient requires a collaboration of the patient and the surgeon. The pros and cons are carefully reviewed and the best procedure thereby is decided on. But, regardless of which technique is used, both procedures can lead to excellent results.
Why come to Park Plaza Hair Restoration?
Choosing where to have your hair restoration is of paramount importance. The most important factor is the experience and training of the personnel. Here at Park Plaza, Hair Restoration Center in NYC, the team is led by Dr. George Lefkovits, a Double Board Certified plastic surgeon who applies his aesthetic and plastic surgical skills. In this regard, Park Plaza differentiates itself from others where a dermatologist or other medical professional leads the team. The hair technicians at our center have many years of experience performing hair transplantation having worked at some of the leading centers prior to coming to Park Plaza.
Our location is in the heart of the Upper East Side of Manhattan in an elegant townhouse where careful attention is given to design, cleanliness, and patient comfort. We also have an accredited outpatient surgical facility. Finally, last but not least, is the surgical fee. Here at Park Plaza, we do not overcharge our patients. We offer a surgical fee that is commensurate with our talented surgical skills, experience, and professionalism. You can request your free consultation by clicking on this link or by calling (212) 750-9494.