FUT HAIR RESTORATION

FUT stands for “follicular unit transplant.” This hair restoration technique may be appropriate for those who are experiencing excessive balding. For hair transplants, you must have an abundance of viable hair follicles to harvest for transplantation, found on the back of the head. These follicles are not genetically programmed for balding, and once transplanted, will continue to produce healthy hairs for the duration.

What is FUT Hair Transplantation?

The FUT procedure, also called the “strip method,” involves harvesting hair follicles by surgically removing a very small strip of scalp from the back of your head. This is a more cost-effective way to harvest follicles, and some patients may prefer a lower cost in hair transplantation – particularly those who do not plan to wear a very short hair style. While the scar is very small, it will be slightly visible in a very short haircut at the back.

Once the strip of scalp is removed, it is carefully sutured together. The hair follicles are then viewed under a special microscope and the hair follicles carefully extracted from the strip of scalp in individual “follicular units.” These follicles are then transplanted into a thinning or balding area with a tiny incision. They are placed in varying densities, so the transplanted hairs appear natural.

What Will I Look Like After the FUT Procedure?

After the procedure, you will see short hairs in the balding area. You won’t immediately have thick, natural hair – it is important you have realistic expectations. The transplanted hairs will initially fall out, which is normal and not cause for concern. After a few months, typically two to three and a half, the new hairs will grow in and will grow at a natural rate thereafter.

Why Choose FUT over FUE?

Many patients opt for the FUT method as it brings several benefits:

• Provides an abundance of hair follicles
• Proven method, used for decades
• More affordable than some other methods
• Excellent for patients with extensive balding
• Long-lasting

How Do I Prepare for FUT?

If you are planning to undergo FUT hair restoration, you have some responsibilities. These include:

• Avoid any blood-thinning medications or supplements for ten days.
• Do not consume ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatories for three days prior to your procedure.
• Avoid alcohol for a week prior to your procedure.
• Ensure you do not expose your head and get a sunburn.
• Allow your hair to grow to a least a half inch long prior to the day of your procedure.
• No hair conditioner applied for three days.
• No smoking for one week prior to FUT, and two weeks following.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from FUT?

As you have had a minor surgical procedure in removing the strip for follicle harvesting, you will need time to recover. You will need to sleep with your head elevated. It is normal for some bleeding and swelling to occur. Avoid bending over, and do not drink any alcoholic beverages, but consume only healthy foods and lots of water. Your stitches will be removed after about ten days.

We will provide you with full aftercare instructions, so you know how to clean your head, and care for your transplants.

HDoes FUT Hair Restoration Have Side Effects?

It is not rare to experience facial swelling or bruising for a few days after your procedure. The other side effects involve the discomfort associated with the incision at the back of the head, and the follicle transplants. To remain comfortable, we may prescribe pain medication, but most patients are comfortable with just over the counter pain medication.