FUE demystified or the magic of FUE?

Hair 4 Life Medical - Dr. Kelemen

What is FUE?

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat pattern baldness and hair thinning in both men and women. Unlike traditional hair transplant methods that involved removing a strip of scalp from the donor area, FUE involves individually extracting hair follicles from the donor site and transplanting them to the recipient area. This is done by using either a robot, a hand-held motorized device or a manual punch.

Which device is better for FUE?

There is no simple, cut and dry answer for this question. It depends on the skin type (hard, soft), hair type (curly, wavy or straight) and hair thickness. The most versatile device is the motorized hand-held device. There are many devices out on the market and preference range from doctor to doctor. Here in my clinic, I prefer to use the WAW or Ugraft systems. I said I prefer. Some doctors may use the Trivellini, or the Safe system, whatever the system the results should do the talking. A device is as good as the operator using it! And the operator should be the doctor!

How does the FUE procedure unfold?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery time is relatively quick compared to other hair transplant methods. The reason for this is the small punch used usually 0.8mm or 0.9mm. The FUE hair transplant results in natural-looking hair growth, as it mimics the natural hair pattern and density. The procedure is suitable for individuals with small to medium-sized balding patterns, and it is also a viable option for those who want to maintain shorter hair styles after the transplant.

What is the exact process for FUE hair transplant? 

At my clinic, upon the patient’s arrival we go over the plan one more time, before meds are administered. Then meds are administered and while the meds take effect, we prepare the patient for the surgical part. Depending on the patient I will use one of the 3 tools I have at my disposal.  If the FUE is via robot I am positioned at the head of the patient where I can give instructions to my robot operator the parameters based on the what I see when I extract the graft. I extract every graft and hand over to a technician who will trim them and prepare them for implantation. If I used one of the hand-held devices I harvest manually and extract each graft, if the surgery is large my trusted tech, Jessica, will do the remove the already harvested graft and count them.

Once extraction is over it is lunch time and the patient along with staff will have an hour-long break. The next step is site making and I will be making all the sites based on the game plan agreed on with the patient. Once all the sites I made we are ready for implantation of the grafts. This process is done together with my trusted tech, Jessica C., and we finish a 3400 graft hair transplant normally between 5-7pm. The last step is to check all the work and bandage the head of the patient, give them their meds, post op instructions and make sure they have a ride home.

The next day they come in for shampoo which I do personally, this gives me an opportunity to check the hair transplant, answer any questions that the patient might have and teach him how to take care of his fresh hair transplant.

Why FUE and not FUT?

One of the main advantages of FUE hair transplant is that it does not leave a linear scar at the donor site, making it an ideal choice for individuals with a preference for shorter haircuts. Additionally, the procedure allows for a wider range of donor options, including body hair, for individuals with limited scalp donor hair. As a reminder body hair is used only as a filler to add density.

FUE hair transplant conclusion

In conclusion, FUE hair transplant has become the premier choice a popular and effective option for individuals experiencing hair loss. Its minimally invasive nature, quick recovery time, and natural-looking results make it a favorable choice for those seeking to restore their hair density and improve their overall appearance. I would be remiss to not mention again, to do your homework and shop around. Price should NOT be the deciding factor. Remember if you buy a bad car you can always sell it, you cannot do that with a bad hair transplant so chose wisely.

Article citations and references

www.healthonline.com

https://techbullion.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-fue-hair-transplant-is-it-worth-it/

https://www.realself.com/surgical/fue-hair-transplant

Contact Hair 4 Life in Scottsdale

Dr. Kelemen integrates conventional and naturopathic medicine to provide the best of what both worlds have to offer. She creates a unique, compassionate, accepting environment for her patients. You only have to read the reviews to find out how she empowers her clients to look and feel their best. They leave the clinic with their heads held high!

To find out which procedure is best suited to your needs, you are invited to come into Hair4Life for a free consultation. Treatments are kept as affordable and accessible as possible so come in and talk to us.

Contact Us or call Hair 4 Life at (480) 525-4547 to schedule an appointment and get your free consultation.

For more information on our FUE Hair Transplants, visit fue-waw-system.