Comparison table of FUE vs. Linear Method
COMPARISON TABLE
FUE vs. FUT Linear Method
Today’s hair restoration techniques make it possible to achieve natural-looking hair density with minimal downtime. Although technology has automated some of these procedures, manual follicular unit extraction and follicular unit transplantation (linear method) remain some of the most effective processes.
Each procedure has its advantages and disadvantages, but both techniques permanently transplant healthy hair to thinning areas for long-lasting results. The right method for you depends on the extent of your hair loss, your preferences, and your ultimate cosmetic goals.
Learn more about the differences between FUE and FUT surgery below as you begin your hair restoration journey.
Manual Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
Manual follicular unit extraction is currently one of the most effective techniques used for surgical hair restoration. With this technique, the individual hair grafts are manually extracted from the back of the patient’s head. Hairs in this area are genetically programmed to resist balding, and when transplanted, they will follow the same growth behavior.
As opposed to using technology for the extractions – such as the NeoGraft or ARTAS systems – manually extracting the grafts allows for the highest level of artistry and precision. Dr. Christopher Varona is proud to be one of the few hair restoration surgeons who performs this critical step himself. For the last decade, he has perfected the techniques that lead to natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Dr. Varona’s ability with this technique allows him to complete 4,000 or more grafts in one day, and he can make graft punches as small as 0.7-0.8 mm. All these factors contribute to superior aesthetic results and virtually imperceptible scarring.
After extracting the grafts, Dr. Varona carefully prepares the transplant site. He meticulously creates the transplant sites so that they match the angle and direction of the surrounding hairs. Once the recipient sites are prepped, Dr. Varona’s expert team will transplant the grafts.
Because this technique is less invasive than FUT surgery, it is an excellent option for people who are prone to keloids or scarring. And because it does not produce a linear scar, it allows patients to wear short hairstyles without obvious evidence of the surgery. This procedure is popular among our younger male patients who are seeking a mild to moderate increase in hair density.
Linear Method or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Follicular unit transplantation – also known as FUT, the linear method, or strip surgery – is another leading type of hair restoration surgery. This technique differs in how the grafts are extracted. Rather than removing individual hair grafts, a thin strip of tissue (about 1.2-1.3 cm wide) is taken from the back of the head.
The individual grafts are then dissected from this strip of tissue and prepared to be transplanted. The transplant sites are prepared similarly as they are for FUE surgery. Once the recipient areas are ready, the grafts are then transplanted by Dr. Varona’s team of specialists.
While FUT surgery does produce a linear scar, Dr. Varona uses trichophytic closures whenever possible to reduce scarring. Patients do not have to shave large sections of their head for this procedure, making it a popular option for women seeking hair restoration. It can also produce a higher yield of grafts when compared to FUE surgery.
FUE & FUT Compared
FUE | FUT | |
Linear Scar | X | |
Sutures | X | |
Freedom to Wear Short Hairstyles Without Visible Scarring | X | |
Recovery Time | 3 Days | 7-10 days |
Small Punch Size | X | X |
Effective for Men and Women | X | X |
Requires Shaving Large Sections of the Head | X | |
Graft Quality | Excellent | Excellent |
Increase in Hair Density | Moderate to Substantial | Significant |
Post-Op Discomfort | Minimal to Mild | Mild to Moderate |
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Schedule a Consultation in Newport Beach, CA
If you’re having trouble deciding whether FUE or FUT is right for you, we welcome you to schedule a personal consultation at Varona Hair Restoration in Newport Beach. At your meeting, Dr. Varona will assess your hair loss, discuss your ultimate cosmetic goals, and answer any questions you may have.
Based on your preferences and the hair density you’d like to achieve, Dr. Varona will create a customized treatment plan for you. This plan may include surgical hair restoration, a non-surgical treatment, or a combination of both. We’d be happy to help you explore your full range of options. Contact us today to take the next step and start living life confidently.