What is a FUT hair transplant?

Follicular unit transplantation (FUT) is a procedure for harvesting donor hair from the donor site, in which a single elliptical strip of hair is removed from the donor area.
In FUT hair transplants, surgeons remove a section of skin from the back of the head. This usually measures between 1 and 1.5 centimetres, depending on how many follicles are required for optimal coverage. The follicles are removed from this strip and prepared for implantation in the bald areas of the scalp. As a rule, this procedure is most effective for thickening larger bald or thinning areas.

The surgeon closes the donor area for healing. The disadvantage of a hair transplant using the FUT technique is that the patient is left with a permanent scar at this site.

How does FUT hair transplant work?

A hair transplant using the FUT method takes between 4 and 6 hours. The procedure is usually quicker than the FUE hair transplant and most patients remain awake (although they are given a local anaesthetic to numb the treatment area).

Does a FUT hair transplant hurt?

FUT hair transplants are performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. After the anesthetic has worn off, you should expect mild to moderate pain for a few days, which can be treated with painkillers.

How does the treatment work?

• The surgeon identifies the recipient and donor area and takes photos for later use.
• The donor hair is trimmed to about 2 millimetres to facilitate access.
• The surgeon removes the strip at the back of the head to harvest the follicles.
• All the required follicles are harvested and prepared for transplantation.
• The donor site is closed with sutures.
• The surgeon inserts the donor follicles into the thinning areas of the scalp to form a natural pattern.
• The scalp is treated with antibiotics before being bandaged.
• Most patients notice results between 6 and 9 months after the procedure, but some can take up to a year to reach this stage.

Who are the best candidates for FUT?

Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT) is suitable for people with advanced hair loss, including extensive baldness or receding hairline.

FUT requires a sufficient donor area from which healthy hair follicles can be harvested. The donor area is usually located on the back or sides of the scalp, where the hair is genetically resistant to balding. With an FUT transplant, many hair follicles can be transplanted in a single session. It is beneficial for individuals who require a large number of grafts to achieve the desired density and coverage.

The FUT procedure is generally less expensive compared to other hair transplant methods such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction). If cost is an important factor, a FUT hair transplant may be a suitable option. The surgical procedure involves removing a strip of scalp from the donor area, resulting in a linear scar that can be hidden by the surrounding hair. This method should only be chosen by those who are comfortable with having a large, linear scar for the rest of their lives.

What is the difference between FUE and FUT hair transplants?

Follicles are transplanted in both types of surgery. The main difference lies in the method of harvesting.

FUT: The surgeon removes a small section of skin from the back of the head and harvests the follicles.

FUE: The surgeon removes individual follicles directly from the scalp using a device rather than a strip.

What are the advantages of FUT?
• The process is usually faster
• Prices can be lower
• A large amount of grafts is required

FUT and FUE combined

Some clinics offer hair transplants with FUT and FUE combined. The combined use of the techniques is usually discussed and decided in advance. It can also happen that the patient opts for a FUT hair transplant, but the surgeon finds that the scalp is too tight to proceed with this method. The surgeon will then usually decide whether the treatment can be completed with FUE or whether it can be performed at a later date. While in almost 60% of cases a single hair transplant session is sufficient to achieve the desired result, you may need another procedure at a later date. After an FUT hair transplant, it is possible to have another session using a different method.

Recovery after a FUT hair transplant

Full recovery after an FUT hair transplant takes around 2-3 weeks. Although your surgeon will advise you on aftercare and the products you should use, your recovery timetable will probably look like this:

• After surgery: Remove bandages.
• 1 day after FUT: Use the medical products to keep the sutured area clean.
• 2 days after surgery: Avoid alcohol, caffeine and spicy food to prevent bleeding.
• 7-10 days after surgery: You can return to work.
• 10-14 days after surgery: See your surgeon to remove the stitches.
• 3-4 weeks after FUT: The transplanted hair will fall out.
• 3-4 months after FUT: New hair will begin to grow at the implanted site and hair density will gradually improve.
• 6-8 months after the treatment: You will notice a significant change in density
• 12-15 months after FUT: You will see the full result.
• You will see the results of your FUT hair transplant approximately one year after the procedure.

Why is Turkey the best for Fut hair transplant?

In the field of hair transplant in Turkey, Istanbul stands out as one of the cities that are in demand by domestic and foreign patients, especially in recent years. Fut hair transplant in Turkey is also one of the most preferred operations with successful results. In addition to plastic surgery, there are many factors that make hair transplant in Turkey, especially hair transplant in Istanbul, such a great success in the field of medical tourism. Turkey is a world leader in hair transplantation, drawing clients from all around the globe looking for premium operations at affordable costs. In particular, Istanbul has developed as a centre for hair transplant clinics, providing cutting edge facilities and highly qualified medical staff. There are various reasons why hair transplants in Turkey are successful.

Firstly, hair transplant cost in Turkey is significantly lower. This is why most people living in Western countries prefer clinics in Istanbul that offer cost-effective options to give their hair a natural and beautiful look. Instead of sacrificing quality, this pricing allows patients to receive top-notch care. In addition, one of the important factors is that having a hair transplant in Istanbul will allow you to take a touristic trip in one of the largest and most historical cities in Turkey. In addition to the affordability of hair transplant cost in Turkey, those who choose Istanbul for hair transplant have the opportunity to visit the city in a few days, visit the historical locations in Istanbul and taste delicious Turkish food.

Secondly, patients can seamlessly regain natural-looking hair with world-class care provided by many clinics in Turkey using the latest technology and techniques. Furthermore, Turkey’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia makes it easily accessible for international patients who can enjoy a hassle-free experience from consultation to post-operative care.
In summary, hair transplant in Turkey, especially hair transplant in Istanbul, offers a winning combination of cutting-edge technology, affordability and accessibility, making it the preferred choice for people seeking effective and reliable hair restoration solutions.