FUT Technique Overview

The FUT hair transplant technique, also known as strip harvesting or follicular unit transplantation, is one of the earliest modern methods developed for surgical hair restoration. Although less commonly used today, FUT remains relevant in selected clinical scenarios.

Understanding how FUT works, its advantages, and its limitations is essential for informed long-term planning.

What is the FUT hair transplant technique?

FUT involves surgically removing a linear strip of scalp tissue from the donor area, typically the occipital region. This strip is then dissected into individual follicular units under magnification before implantation.

For a general overview of hair transplantation, see:
What Is Hair Transplant?

Historical role of FUT

FUT was the dominant hair transplant technique before the widespread adoption of FUE. It enabled surgeons to harvest large numbers of grafts with relatively low transection rates.

Donor strip harvesting process

The donor strip is excised using precise surgical technique to minimize trauma. The wound is then closed using suturing methods designed to reduce scar width.

Microscopic graft dissection

Once harvested, the donor strip is dissected into follicular units under stereoscopic microscopes.

Dissection principles are explained here:
Microscopic Graft Dissection

Advantages of FUT

FUT allows harvesting of a high number of grafts in a single session, which can be beneficial for patients with extensive hair loss.

Linear scarring considerations

The primary drawback of FUT is the linear scar left in the donor area. Scar visibility depends on closure technique, skin elasticity, and hair length.

Trichophytic closure technique

Trichophytic closure aims to allow hair growth through the scar, reducing its visibility. However, scars cannot be completely eliminated.

Comparison with FUE

Unlike FUE, FUT concentrates scarring into a single line rather than distributing micro-scars across the donor area.

Technique differences are explained here:
Manual vs Motorized FUE

Donor preservation and elasticity

FUT requires adequate scalp laxity. Poor elasticity increases tension and scar widening risk.

Postoperative recovery

Recovery after FUT is generally longer than FUE, with increased discomfort during the early healing phase.

Activity restrictions

Patients are advised to limit neck movement and strenuous activity to protect the donor closure.

When FUT may still be indicated

FUT may be considered in patients requiring high graft numbers who are willing to accept a linear scar.

Combining FUT and FUE

Some long-term strategies combine FUT and FUE to maximize donor yield while managing scarring.

Long-term donor planning is discussed here:
Hair Transplant Planning for Long-Term Results

Limitations of FUT

• Linear scarring
• Longer recovery time
• Reduced hairstyle flexibility

Ethical considerations

Patients must be fully informed about scarring, recovery, and long-term implications before choosing FUT.

Long-term outcomes

When properly selected and executed, FUT can provide durable results comparable to FUE.

Current role of FUT in hair restoration

Today, FUT is a niche technique reserved for specific indications rather than routine use.

Clinical impact of FUT

FUT remains a valuable option in expert hands when aligned with patient goals and donor characteristics.

References

1. JAAD – Follicular Unit Transplantation Technique
   
2. NCBI – Hair Transplantation Methods
   
3. ISHRS – FUT Technique and Donor Considerations
   

Medical Disclaimer:
This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
It is not intended to replace a face-to-face consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified physician.
Individual treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with a licensed medical professional.