Hair Transplant Techniques

The success of hair transplantation is significantly based on the technique used, with each of the techniques having varying advantages and considerations for patients of varying needs.

A. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): The Strip Method:

Follicular Unit Transplantation, or more commonly referred to as the strip method, is one of the first systematic methods of modern hair transplantation.

This procedure requires a special surgical process:

Extraction Process: A strip of tissue is removed from the donor region, which is usually at the back of the head where the hair follicles are more resilient against pattern baldness.

Graft Preparation: This strip is then carefully dissected into individual follicular units with 1-4 hairs each under microscopic control.

Implantation: These isolated follicular units are then planted in small incisions created within the recipient area where baldness has happened.

Advantages of FUT:

Quick harvesting of high numbers of grafts in a single procedure makes it ideal for patients who need extensive coverage.

Better follicle survival rate under some conditions as they are removed with supporting protective tissue

Limitations of FUT:

1) More invasive compared to newer methods involving scalp excision of a portion.

2) Linear scar is a limitation in styling short hair

3) Discomfort post-surgery and longer healing times

Although FUT was previously the gold standard for hair transplantation, it is now offered less frequently at most clinics following the introduction of less invasive methods. Nevertheless, it still can be an option for certain cases involving the need for maximum graft harvesting within a single setting.

B. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): The Individual Follicle Approach

FUE is a new leap in hair transplantation technology, providing a less invasive option compared to FUT with methodological differences:

Extraction Methodology: Rather than taking out a strip of tissue, FUE entails removing separate follicular units from the scalp directly with a small punch tool (usually 0.8-1mm in diameter).

Graft Collection: One by one, the follicular unit with 1-4 hairs is removed carefully and kept in a specialized solution to preserve viability until transplantation.

Recipient Site Creation: The surgeon makes small micro-channels in the recipient site where hair growth is to be achieved.

Implantation Process: The removed follicular units are implanted into these channels based on a pre-planned pattern that aims at creating natural-looking density and direction of hair.

FUE Variations:

Manual FUE:

• Manually extracted by the surgeon
• Tends to produce extremely natural-looking results
• More time-consuming than automated procedures
• Less harsh on the follicles when done by experienced practitioners

Automated FUE:

• Uses machines such as NeoGraft and ARTAS for quicker extraction
• Potentially can speed up the procedure considerably
• May possibly be more harsh on the follicles
• Decreases procedure time for large sessions

Benefits of FUE:

• Minimally Invasive, less post-operative pain and faster recovery
• Unlike a linear scar, FUE only results in minute, dot-like scars that in most cases are not observable when the head is shaved.
• With no linear scar, patients are free to wear their hair in most short styles.
• When done properly, FUE has the ability to produce very natural-looking results.

Drawbacks of FUE:

• The surgery is more time-consuming compared to FUT, particularly for bigger sessions.
• Demands high technical expertise from the surgeon.
• Less conspicuous than FUT, but they are minute circular scars nonetheless.
• Complete results usually manifest after 12-15 months of the procedure.

FUE has gained popularity and is now regarded by most clinics as gold standard in hair transplantation because of better aesthetic outcomes and less scarring.

C. Direct Hair Implantation (DHI): Advanced Precision Technique

DHI is the latest innovation in hair transplant technology, an extension of the FUE method with further advances in precision and efficiency:

Extraction Similarity: Similar to FUE, DHI starts with the removal of separate follicular units from the donor zone.

Specialized Instrumentation: Where DHI differs is in employing a specialized instrument known as the Choi Implanter Pen (or analogous tools), facilitating simultaneous extraction and implanting.

No Pre-Made Incisions: In contrast to conventional FUE where pre-made incisions are made prior to implantation, DHI does not require pre-made incisions.

Direct Placement: The harvested follicles are filled into the implanter device and planted directly into the scalp in a single smooth movement.

Benefits of DHI:

• The implanter device provides control over the angle, depth, and direction of each follicle insertion.
• Accuracy results in virtually natural hairlines with tailored aesthetic results.
• Minimal Invasiveness and faster recovery
• Less handling of the follicles could result in greater survival rates.
• Most DHI treatments can be accomplished in one visit.
• Enables increased density in key regions.

More complete hair growth is normally noticeable after 8-12 months, slightly quicker than standard FUE.

Restrictions of DHI:

DHI normally has a graft limit of approximately 4,000 for a single session.

Being the latest technology, DHI may cost more than other procedures.

Needs special training and machinery, which restricts access.

Especially ideal for younger patients (below 35 years) who have not suffered from extensive baldness.

DHI is very popular today because of its effectiveness, individualization options, and high rates of survival among transplanted follicles. With the success rate being nearly 95% (comparable to FUE), it is the latest technology in hair transplantation.

The choice of a method should be made on several factors such as:

• The extent and pattern of hair loss
• The quality and quantity of donor hair available
• The patient's aesthetic goals and desired hairstyles
• Budget considerations
• Recovery time availability
• Long-term planning for potential future procedures

Above all, consultation with an experienced surgeon who is skilled in several methods is crucial in deciding on the most suitable method. Although DHI and FUE are commonly preferred for their low invasiveness and natural look, there may be some particular situations where FUT would still be preferred under some conditions.

With this broad knowledge of the hair transplant methods you have available, you're in a stronger position to engage in an educated conversation with your surgeon