FUE HAIR TRANSPLANT LONDON

What is a FUE Hair Transplant?

Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) is a sophisticated hair restoration technique that involves the extraction of individual follicular units—natural clusters of hair follicles containing 1 to 4 hairs—from the donor area at the back of the scalp, sides or from other body areas such as the beard or chest. These harvested units are then meticulously transplanted into balding or thinning areas of the scalp. The FUE method utilises micro-punches ranging from 0.7 to 1.2 mm in diameter, which can be manual, motorized, or robotic.

Initially referred to as “Follicular Unit Extraction,” the term has evolved to “Follicular Unit Excision” to better reflect the surgical expertise and decision-making involved in the graft harvesting process.

The Importance of Qualified Surgeons

It is crucial that the FUE procedure is performed by a qualified physician. The skill required for effective follicular unit harvesting hinges on the surgeon’s experience, skills and “artistry”.

FUE vs. FUT

FUE and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) are the two predominant techniques for hair harvesting in transplant surgery. While FUE has been described, FUT is the older method, involving the removal of a linear strip of scalp tissue, which is then sutured closed. This strip is subsequently dissected into individual grafts by skilled technicians before being transplanted. Unlike FUE, FUT leaves a linear scar on the scalp.

Advantages of FUE Hair Transplant

FUE offers several distinct benefits, including:

• Absence of a linear scar, allowing for versatile hairstyle options.
• Quicker recovery time compared to FUT.
• Reports of reduced postoperative discomfort among patients.
• The ability to harvest follicles from non-scalp areas, such as the beard or chest, without the risk of visible scarring.

Risks & Side Effects of FUE

 Notable risks include the potential for overharvesting the donor area or extending beyond the Safe Donor Area (SDA). Common side effects may include minor scalp cysts, mild infections, or temporary telogen effluvium, which is the shedding of existing hair, although this typically resolves over time. That is why selecting a qualified FUE surgeon minimises drastically the risks.

Ideal Candidates for FUE

The best candidates for FUE are individuals with stabilised hair loss. Age also plays a role; younger patients may face greater risks due to potential future hair loss. A good candidate should possess healthy donor hair, have realistic expectations, and be medically fit for surgery. Factors such as hair texture and color contrast with the scalp can also influence the aesthetic outcome.

FUE Procedure Overview

The FUE process can vary between surgeons, but the fundamental steps remain consistent:

1. Outlining Donor and Recipient Areas: The surgeon collaborates with the patient to outline the donor and recipient zones, ensuring mutual satisfaction with the proposed hairline and transplant areas.

2. Administering Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the scalp, and some surgeons may also use sedation for enhanced comfort.

3. Preparing Recipient Sites: The surgeon may create recipient sites for the grafts, often after a few test grafts are harvested to ensure compatibility.

4. Harvesting Grafts: Based on the number of recipient sites, the surgeon will harvest the required number of grafts, often using magnification for precision.

5. Placing Grafts: The harvested grafts are then placed into the recipient sites, with careful attention to angle and orientation for a natural appearance.

Recovery After FUE

Recovery from FUE is generally swift, with many patients experiencing minimal discomfort. Tiny scabs will form in the donor and recipient areas, typically resolving within 1 to 2 weeks. While the transplanted hair may initially shed, the roots remain intact, leading to new growth over several months. Patients should adhere to their surgeon’s postoperative care instructions for optimal results.

Cost of FUE

The cost of an FUE procedure can vary widely based on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise and the specifics of the clinical practice. Most surgeons charge per graft, while some may offer a set fee based on an estimated range of grafts. We offer one of the most competitive rate in the market in London: £3500 for up to 5000 grafts.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Selecting a qualified surgeon is crucial for achieving a successful outcome. Look for a practitioner who prioritises ethical practices and is willing to provide honest assessments regarding your suitability for the procedure. Credentials, experience, and positive patient testimonials, along with before-and-after photos, should guide your decision-making process.

Is a FUE hair transplant permanent?

Yes, FUE hair transplants are generally permanent, provided the grafts are harvested from the appropriate donor areas.

Do I need to shave my head for FUE?

Typically, yes, although non-shaved FUE is possible in select cases, albeit at a higher cost.

Is FUT cheaper than FUE?

Generally, FUT tends to be less expensive due to lower labor requirements, but costs can vary based on the provider.

What is the success rate of FUE?

With experienced surgeons and modern techniques, the success rate is very high.

Does FUE look natural?

When performed by skilled professionals, FUE results can appear very natural, influenced by factors like hairline design and graft placement.

Does the donor area for FUE grow back?

No, once donor hair is removed, it does not regrow, making careful planning essential for future hair restoration needs.