Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) is a technique where individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area (usually the back of the head) and transplanted to areas with visible hair thinning or ongoing baldness. This minimally invasive approach to hair transplant ensures natural-looking results with no linear scars, making it a popular choice for hair restoration.

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Facts about Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

FUE is an advanced and precise hair restoration technique. It involves taking out individual grafts from the back of the head and placing them in the areas of irreversible hair loss. The surgeon aims to give the desired density which can mimic natural hair. It works well for both men and women and can be used not only for the scalp but also for beard, eyebrows, and other areas where hair restoration is needed. It does not involve having sutures like strip surgery.

This technique of Follicular Unit Extraction was published in 2002 by Dr. Bernstein and Dr. Rassman. This technique involves the extraction of individual follicular units (FU) or follicles from the donor area using a small, circular punch and implantation in the recipient area.

The technique gained popularity over the years because of its minimally invasive approach to hair transplant and faster recovery.

When to Consider Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Hair Transplant

When to go for FUE Hair Transplant

FUE is trending more for its cosmetic results. However, it is suitable for someone who’s experiencing pattern baldness, receding hairlines, or thinning hair. It is also an option for those who have lost hair due to injury or surgery. It is a procedure that can be done if you are facing any of the following problems :

  • Receding hairline in Grade 2-4 androgenetic alopecia
  • Grade 3 - 6 androgenetic alopecia
  • Stable hairloss that is not rapidly progressive
  • Failure to grow hair with the medical therapy and other hair regenerative procedures.
  • Baldness in crown area in advanced cases
  • Botched transplant
  • Repeat transplant to improve the density or coverage from previous transplant
  • Hair loss patches due to injury, burns, any pathology or surgery
  • Hemales who have undergone adequate medical therapy but want to go for transplant only after thorough investigation

What are the benefits of Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)?

Advantages of Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedure include:

Natural looking results

FUE grafts are placed to achieve the desired density in different regions of the scalp, at the angle and direction that mimics pre-existing hair. Also, the results can be modified as per the individual's requirement.

Minimal scars

FUE produces minimal, inconspicuous, tiny dot like scars as the surgeon can extract grafts in a zig-zag manner. These scars are rarely visible when the hair is kept longer in the donor area.

Faster recovery

FUE has a minimally invasive approach to surgery where the extraction is done using micro punches of 0.7-1.2mm diameter and the depth is also limited to the dermis. The scars heal comparatively faster and the patient can return to normal activities in a matter of a few days.

Virtually painless

Because of the nature of surgery, pain is minimal and can be managed by various methods to ensure a comfortable procedure for the patient.

Low risk of infection

As compared to strip method, FUE has lower risk of infection due to minimally invasive nature.

Good option for people with poor donor area

FUE allows precise selection of high-quality grafts from optimal-density areas, ensuring even donor extraction. If scalp donor is limited, grafts can also be taken from beard, chest, or other body areas with minimal discomfort or scarring

Steps of the SURGERY

Step 1: Local AnesthesiaStep 1

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is used to block the pain sensations over the scalp or any other body site that is operated during hair transplantation. It can be either injected into the skin or applied topically as a cream.

Step 2: Slit MakingStep 2

Slit Making

Slit making is the process where a surgeon makes spaces in the site where grafts need to be implanted. This is a crucial step as the direction, angulation and density is decided during this stage.

Step 3: ExtractionStep 3

Extraction

Extraction is the process of removing grafts from the donor area. The expertise of the surgeon plays a major role in this process as this is where the quality grafts for the recipient site is obtained.

Step 4: ImplantationStep 4

Implantation

Implantation is the process of placing the grafts in the pre-formed pockets as planned by the surgeon. This step is passive as compared to other steps and can be done by trained staff.

The process typically takes several hours, depending on the number of grafts required.

How is Kibo-Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Different?

Kibo-FUE stands out because it is a surgeon-led hair transplant procedure. Our doctors have 10+ years experience who perform the surgery. The procedure is designed to be minimally disruptive, ensuring a smooth recovery with no noticeable scarring. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, focusing on natural hairline design and long-term hair restoration.

Kibo-FUE Difference

The aim is to provide the best quality in every step of the surgery and recovery in ultra-hygienic OTs in the following ways:

  • Virtually pain-free local anaesthesia.
  • Innovative and customized slit making using CTS (cut-to-size) blades, causing less trauma or bleeding.
  • Best quality extraction from the safe zone using advanced punches with minimal wastage.
  • Minimum out-of-body time of grafts.
  • Minimal dehydration or mechanical trauma.

Kibo also provides comprehensive aftercare support to ensure the best possible outcome.

What to Expect

Before

  • Understanding that results take time – full regrowth can take up to a year.
  • Your donor area should have sufficient healthy hair for transplant.
  • There may be temporary swelling, redness, or minor scabbing.

After

  • Thicker, fuller hair in the transplanted area.
  • No visible scars and a natural hairline.
  • Permanent results, but continued hair loss in untreated areas is possible.

Possible Complications (Rare)

  • Temporary numbness or mild discomfort.
  • Shedding phase (Shock loss) – a natural part of the process.
  • Infection (preventable with proper post-care).

How Much Does Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Cost?

The cost of FUE varies depending on factors such as the number of grafts required, the expertise of the surgeon, and the clinic location. Additional treatments like PRP therapy or specialized aftercare products may also affect pricing.

At Kibo, pricing is transparent, with no hidden costs. A consultation is the best way to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and hair restoration goals.

FAQs
Hair transplant procedure can take up to 6-10 hours depending on the number of grafts and extent of the surgery. Gigasessions more than 4000 grafts can take up to 8-12 hours divided over two days for patient convenience.
Hair transplant surgery done by the FUE method is done under local anesthesia. Minimal pain and discomfort is expected during the surgery but it can be managed intraoperatively by using microinjections and vibrating devices. Mild discomfort during recovery is also expected but can be managed with post surgery prescription medications.
Most people can return to work within 7 days but healing takes a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, scabs and swelling subside and the skin heals completely accepting grafts and making them secure for further growth. However, you might see some initial shedding starting from the first month onwards, the hair growth will start appearing from the 3rd month onwards.. Final results may take 12-18 months to become completely noticeable.
Yes, when performed by experienced surgeons, transplanted hair looks natural and blends seamlessly with existing hair. Your surgeon will decide factors like hairline placement, graft density and angle and direction of the transplanted hair in a detailed discussion before the surgery which will be then imitated to achieve the natural and desirable results.
Hair transplant is generally considered to provide long-term results. However, you may continue to lose non-transplanted hair over time or due to your lifestyle changes, making follow-up treatments necessary for some.
Hair transplants are generally safe, but some risks include minor swelling, bleeding, temporary numbness in the scalp, pain, itching, crusting, rarely infection or shock loss. Most side effects are temporary and usually mild when performed by a qualified surgeon.
Initial shedding of transplanted hair is normal. New growth begins around 3-4 months, with full results visible within 12-18 months.
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