FUE or FUT: which hair transplant technique should you choose? 

What is the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) method?

FUE, or Follicular Unit Extraction, is a modern hair transplant technique that consists of extracting hair follicles one by one directly from the donor area, usually at the back of the scalp. This extraction is performed using an instrument called a punch, which allows each graft to be removed precisely, without a linear incision.

This method is particularly appreciated for its discretion: it leaves only tiny dot scars, invisible even with very short hair. It is also less invasive than FUT, which allows for faster recovery. FUE hair transplantation is ideal for patients who want a hair transplant without visible traces, or for those who plan to wear their hair short after the procedure.

Our FUE hair transplants results

What is the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) method ?

FUT, or Follicular Unit Transplantation, is an older technique that consists of removing a strip of scalp from the donor area. This strip is then dissected under a microscope to isolate the follicular units that will be implanted into thinning areas.

This method allows a large number of grafts to be harvested in a single session, making it suitable for cases of extensive baldness. However, it leaves a linear scar at the back of the scalp, which may be visible if the hair is worn short. Recovery is generally longer, and the donor area may be more sensitive after the procedure.

What are the main differences between FUE and FUT ?

The major difference between these two hair transplant techniques lies in the extraction method. FUE extracts follicles one by one, whereas FUT removes a strip of scalp. This distinction has a direct impact on healing, procedure duration, and post-operative comfort.

FUE is less invasive, with faster healing and lighter post-operative effects. It is ideal for patients who want to avoid a visible scar. FUT, on the other hand, allows a larger number of grafts to be harvested in one session, which can be an advantage for cases of very advanced hair loss.

The choice between the two will depend on your donor area, the extent of your baldness, your aesthetic preferences, and your doctor’s opinion.

What are the specific advantages and disadvantages of FUE?

FUE offers many advantages: it does not leave a linear scar, allows for quick recovery, and offers great flexibility in the choice of donor areas.

This method is particularly suitable for small transplants, touch-ups, or patients with tight scalp skin. It also allows for better post-operative discretion, which is an important criterion for many patients.

However, FUE can be slightly longer and more expensive, as each follicle is extracted individually. For cases of significant baldness, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired result.

Why Racine Carrée does not perform FUT hair transplants

At Racine Carrée, we have chosen not to offer the FUT method. It leaves a permanent linear scar at the back of the scalp, which is a barrier for many patients who wish to wear short hair or benefit from a naturally discreet result. Recovery is longer, with a sutured area that can be painful and more sensitive, and the risk of tension or post-operative complications is increased.

Moreover, implantation precision is more limited compared to the FUE method that we exclusively use. We prioritize modern techniques such as FUE with a sapphire blade or FUE with implantation via CHOI implanter, which allow optimal control of orientation, density, and distribution of grafts. These methods provide better post-operative discretion, shorter recovery time, and no linear scar.

We do not perform FUT transplants because this technique goes against our commitments: ensuring natural aesthetic results, minimizing scars, optimizing patient comfort, and using the most advanced and minimally invasive technologies. FUT may still be performed in some centers, but it no longer meets the expectations of the majority of patients nor our vision of hair medicine.