FUT Hair Transplant: Strip Method, Process and Scarring

What Is a FUT Hair Transplant?

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) is a hair transplant method in which a thin strip of skin is taken from the donor area and divided into grafts. It is also known as the strip method. The grafts are then placed in areas with hair loss. FUT is a medical procedure and should take place at an authorised health facility, under the responsibility of authorised health professionals.

This page gives a general overview of how FUT is carried out, the scar that can remain in the donor area, recovery and possible risks. The information is general and does not replace a personal assessment.

How Is FUT Carried Out?

1. Assessment and planning: Hair structure, hair loss, donor area and skin structure are assessed. Whether the method suits you is decided at this assessment.
2. Taking the strip: A thin strip of skin is taken from the donor area and the area is closed.
3. Preparing the grafts: The strip is divided into grafts.
4. Placing the grafts: The grafts are placed in the recipient area according to the planned hairline and density.
5. First wash and aftercare: After the procedure you receive guidance on the first wash, daily care and care of the donor area.

Scarring in the Donor Area After FUT

Because a strip is taken from the donor area, a linear scar can remain. How visible it is depends on the person, the skin and healing. Talk openly with a health professional about scarring before the procedure.

When Can FUT Be Considered?

Whether FUT is suitable differs from person to person. An assessment looks at these together:

• The type of hair loss and the size of the area to be transplanted
• Donor area capacity and hair structure
• How elastic the skin in the donor area is
• General health and any medication
• Your expectations and your preference about scarring

Neither method is better for everyone. For a comparison, see differences between FUE and FUT.

Local Anaesthetic and Recovery

Local anaesthetic can be used. What you feel varies from person to person. Healing in the donor and recipient areas differs from person to person. Following the aftercare instructions from the facility that carried out the procedure matters.

After the Procedure

Some transplanted hair may shed in the first weeks. New growth usually starts within months, and the process can take around a year. Speed and density differ from person to person.

Risks of a FUT Hair Transplant

As with any medical procedure, risks and temporary effects can occur. Redness, swelling, scabbing, infection, scarring in the donor area and temporary changes in sensation are among them. Discuss possible risks with a health professional before you decide. Results cannot be guaranteed.

FUT Hair Transplant FAQ

What is the main difference between FUT and FUE?

With FUE, follicles are removed from the donor area one by one. With FUT, a thin strip of skin is taken and divided into grafts.

Does FUT leave a scar?

A linear scar can remain in the donor area. How it looks varies from person to person.

Is FUT suitable for everyone?

No. Suitability depends on the donor area, skin structure, type of hair loss, general health and expectations.

When does new hair appear after FUT?

Growth is gradual. New hair usually starts to appear within months and the process can take around a year.

Where should FUT be done?

At an authorised health facility, under the responsibility of authorised health professionals.

For general information see the hair transplant page, and for questions use the contact page.