FOLLICULAR UNIT TRANSPLANTATION

FUT Hair Transplants in Raleigh, NC

A Proven Approach for Larger Hair Restoration Procedures

FUT hair transplantation uses a narrow strip of donor tissue to obtain follicular-unit grafts for transplantation. For appropriate candidates, it can be an effective option when a larger number of grafts or careful donor planning is a priority.

UNDERSTANDING FUT

What Is an FUT Hair Transplant?

Follicular Unit Transplantation, or FUT, is a surgical hair-restoration technique in which a narrow strip of tissue is removed from the donor area, typically at the back of the scalp.

The donor strip is then carefully divided under magnification into individual follicular-unit grafts containing naturally occurring groups of hairs.

Those grafts are prepared and transplanted into the areas being restored.

THE PROCEDURE

How FUT Hair Transplantation Works

Simple illustration of the back of a head with a narrow donor strip area outlined across the lower scalp
Donor Area Is Planned

A section of tissue is selected based on scalp, donor density, and the number of grafts needed.

Simple illustration of the back of a head showing a closed donor area with a thin horizontal suture line
Donor Strip Removed

The selected strip of tissue is surgically removed and the donor area is closed with sutures.

Simple illustration of donor tissue being separated into individual follicular-unit grafts under magnification
Grafts Are Prepared

Our surgical team carefully separates the tissue under magnification into individual follicular-unit grafts.

Simple illustration of the front of a head with small recipient-site markings across the hairline area
Sites Created

The areas being restored are planned with attention to hair direction, density, and overall design.

Simple illustration of the front of a head with hair grafts being placed into recipient sites using forceps
Grafts Are Placed

Prepared grafts are placed into the recipient sites according to the individualized transplant plan.

FUT BENEFITS

Why FUT May Be Recommended

Efficient Graft Harvesting

FUT can allow a larger number of follicular units to be harvested from a concentrated donor area.

Preserve Surrounding Hair

Only the hair within the donor strip generally needs to be trimmed, allowing surrounding hair to remain longer.

Donor Planning

FUT can be useful when conserving other areas of the donor region for possible future procedures is important.

Established Technique

FUT has been used in hair transplantation for many years and remains an option for appropriately selected patients.

THE DONOR AREA

Understanding the FUT Donor Scar

Because FUT involves removing a narrow strip of donor tissue, it creates a linear scar in the donor area.

For many patients who wear their hair longer, the surrounding hair can conceal the scar once the area has healed.

The appearance of the donor area can vary based on individual healing, scalp characteristics, surgical technique, and hairstyle.

This is one of the main differences between FUT and FUE and should be considered when choosing between the two procedures.

COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

FUT or FUE?

FUT

  • Donor follicles are obtained from a strip of tissue
  • Creates a linear donor scar
  • Usually requires limited trimming of the donor strip
  • Can be useful for larger graft needs
  • May help preserve other areas of the donor region

FUE

  • Follicular units are extracted individually
  • Does not create a linear donor scar
  • Traditional FUE generally requires more shaving
  • Stealth and No-Shave options may be available
  • Allows follicles to be harvested across a broader donor area
PERSONALIZED PLANNING

Is FUT Right for You?

FUT may be considered for patients who have an appropriate donor area and hair-restoration goals that make the strip method a useful option.

Your consultation will evaluate factors including:

  • Donor density
  • Scalp flexibility
  • Number of grafts needed
  • Hair length and preferred hairstyle
  • Pattern and progression of hair loss
  • Previous transplant procedures
  • Long-term donor planning
REAL PATIENT RESULTS

FUT Hair Transplant Results

Hair transplant results vary based on donor supply, hair characteristics, graft numbers, starting hair loss, and the individual treatment plan.

FUT FAQ

Common Questions About FUT Hair Transplants

Does FUT leave a scar?

Yes. FUT creates a linear scar in the donor area where the strip of tissue is removed. Longer surrounding hair can often conceal the area after healing.

Will I have to shave my head?

Generally, only the donor strip area needs to be trimmed. The amount of trimming depends on the individual procedure.

How is FUT different from FUE?

FUT obtains grafts from a strip of donor tissue, while FUE removes individual follicular units directly from the scalp.

How many grafts can be transplanted?

The number varies based on donor density, scalp characteristics, the area being restored, and the individual treatment plan.

When will transplanted hair grow?

Growth develops gradually following transplantation. Your surgical team will explain the expected healing and growth timeline.

EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS

Find Out Whether FUT Is Right for You

Choosing between FUT and FUE depends on your donor area, hairstyle, graft needs, and long-term hair-restoration goals.

Meet with the Jernigan’s team in Raleigh for a personalized evaluation.