Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
Follicular Unit Extraction is a relatively new method of follicular unit transplantation. Unlike the standard single-strip excision, in which the strip is removed from the donor site and then dissected into follicular unit grafts, FUE takes each graft individually, one by one, from all over the side and back of the scalp. Each graft consists of 1, 2, 3, and sometimes 4 hairs. The goal of the procedure is to minimize the effects of scarring.
Because each follicular unit is removed individually, the procedure takes a considerably larger amount of time. As such, each procedure is limited to approximately 500 grafts per session and the cost of each graft is almost double that of the standard linear extraction procedure.
During an FUE procedure the follicular units are extracted first using a small sharp millimeter punch. The sharp punch is used to score the skin around the follicular unit and prepare the unit for extraction. A dull punch is then used to extract the follicular unit beneath the skin. The two-step process is necessary in order to minimize transection of hair follicles. Once the follicular unit is carefully separated from the surrounding tissue it is extracted using forceps. The small holes left after extraction are left open and heal in a few days.
While the FUE procedure has grown in popularity, the standard linear strip excision is still the most popular hair transplant procedure. In single-strip excision, the patient is left with a thin, pencil-like linear scar once the donor site is sutured closed. In FUE there is no wound to suture, so the area is left to heal on its own with what some believe as less noticeable scarring and no tightness of the scalp.
Patients who might benefit from a FUE procedure as opposed to the traditional transplant would be patients whose donor area is limited due to tightness of the scalp or those who tend to heal with wide scars after suturing.
Regardless, it is important to meet with the doctor personally to evaluate and address your individual needs, concerns, and expectations. Patients should be aware that though FUE has the potential to minimize the appearance of scarring, it cannot eliminate it entirely.
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