What Is FUE?

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a widely used, minimally invasive hair transplant technique where individual hair follicles are harvested one by one from the donor area (usually the back or sides of the scalp) and then implanted into thinning or bald areas.

FUE is known for its natural-looking results, minimal scarring, and quick recovery. It’s currently the most popular method for both men and women seeking permanent hair restoration.

How It Works

• A surgeon uses a micro punch tool (typically 0.6–1.0 mm) to extract individual hair grafts
• These grafts are then sorted and implanted into the recipient area through small incisions or using an implanter pen
• The procedure is done under local anesthesia and can involve anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000+ grafts, depending on the extent of hair loss

Who It’s For

• People with pattern baldness (male or female)
• Individuals looking to restore hairlines, crowns, or temple zones
• Candidates with enough donor density and healthy follicles
• Those preferring a less invasive option with faster recovery than older strip methods

Benefits

• No linear scar (unlike FUT) — great for short hairstyles
• Quick healing and minimal downtime
• Allows for custom hairline design and natural angles
• Can be used for beard, eyebrow, and body hair transplants
• Low complication rate when performed by an experienced team

Limitations & Risks

• Requires more surgical time than FUT
• Overharvesting can lead to visible thinning in the donor area
• Risk of graft damage or low survival if poorly executed
• May require multiple sessions for very advanced hair loss
• Results depend heavily on surgeon skill and graft handling

Questions to Ask Your Clinic

• How many FUE procedures has your team performed?
• What’s your graft survival rate?
• Will I need to shave my entire head for the procedure?

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before undergoing any medical procedure.

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