What is FUE?
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a modern hair transplantation technique that involves extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp and transplanting them to the recipient area where hair growth is desired. It is a minimally invasive procedure that has gained popularity due to its natural-looking results and shorter recovery time compared to traditional hair transplant methods.
During the FUE procedure, specialized devices are used to remove individual follicular units from the donor area, typically located at the back or sides of the scalp, where hair is genetically resistant to balding.
After the extraction, the surgeon makes small incisions in the recipient area. Each extracted follicular unit is then carefully placed into these incisions, aligning them with the natural hair growth pattern to create a natural appearance.
FUE is a preferred choice for patients who want to avoid linear scars associated with the older strip harvesting technique (Follicular Unit Transplantation – FUT).
The recovery period for FUE is generally faster compared to FUT, and there is minimal postoperative discomfort. However, it’s essential to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and hair growth.
As with any medical procedure, it is crucial to consult with a hair transplant surgeon to determine the best treatment approach for individual needs and goals.
Advantages of manual FUE
Although it is more time consuming, Manual FUE method allows greater control and flexibility in extracting grafts from various areas of donor site. Recovery period of donor site is also much faster. Risk of mechanical damage to the follicular units is reduced comparing the motorized punches. Manuel FUE technique ensure minimal trauma to the follicles and optimal growth after transplantation.
Our procedure
1. Consultation and surgery plan
Pre-evaluation is done through the pictures patient provides.
In the beginning of face-to-face consultation expectation of the patient, desired outcome and realistic results is discussed. Detail medical history including underlying health conditions and medications is evaluated. Donor area will be analyzed with dermatoscope, and donor capacity will be calculated. Recipient area measurements and follicles per cm2 will be determined for exact number of follicles to be transplanted for individual needs of the patient. Hair caliber and estimated hair per follicle average will be noted for each patient for an adequate surgery plan. An example of ideal frontline for the patient to frame the forehead will be drawn and discussed with patient.
2. Operation Phases
Blood tests and electrocardiography is obtained 1 day prior to surgery.
Patients’ donor region is shaved with electrical razor. Recipient site borders will be marked considering the future progression of hair loss. Frontline design discussed previously in the consultation will be outlined.
Local anesthesia
Ring type local anesthesia is applied in an almost pain free manner.
Extraction
Hair follicles are extracted manually with small diameter punches. Donor management and homogenization is applied according to pre-operation plan. Extracted hair follicles are grouped according to hair per follicle numbers and stored in a special solution at 40C.
Incisions
The recipient area, where hair loss has occurred, is prepared by creating small incisions. Original hair growth pattern, angles and direction of hairs are taken into consideration to achieve natural looking results.
What is manual FUE?
Manual Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a method of hair transplantation that involves the manual extraction of individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp, without the use of a motorized or robotic device.
In the manual FUE technique, a handheld instrument called punch is used to carefully extract individual follicular units one by one. The punch is typically a small, cylindrical tool with a sharp, circular cutting edge. During the extraction circular rotations is manually operated around each follicular unit, and then the unit is gently loosened from the surrounding tissue.
In Which Cases is Manual FUE Method Preferred?
The manual FUE method is preferred in cases where there is significant hair loss and clients want to restore their natural hair structure. This method, which is highly reliable, gives a chance to achieve satisfactory results.
The manual FUE technique is generally preferred by those who aim to achieve more stable results, considering the following elements:
The desired result can be easily achieved with the help of a physician who has experience in the field.
How Long Does Manual FUE Application Take?
The time required for manual FUE varies depending on the tissue structure of the person’s hair and scalp. The number of grafts required and the team’s experience are the key factors that determine how long hair transplantation takes. The procedures can last up to 7 to 9 hours depending on the extraction of the grafts.
Preparation Before Manual FUE Hair Transplantation
Before applying the manual hair transplant method, people should pay attention to the absence of oily hair. In this regard, the essential cleaning should be completed beforehand. It is also important that there is no hair gel or similar substances. It is also essential to break habits such as smoking during the operation process and avoid heavy physical exercises close to the application time.
Post-Operation Process
Following a successful hair transplant, patients should pay attention to several issues. It is important not to touch the transplanted area and to use the provided creams and medicines on time. Care should be taken to protect the relevant area for an average of 15 days and to use the shampoos recommended by the doctor for washing hair afterward.
The Importance of Manual Hair Transplantation
In practice, the hair physician’s ability to receive more effective tactile feedback allows him or her to operate safely during procedures.
Furthermore, this technique avoids some unfavorable scenarios produced by the damaging heat effect, torsion, and friction that motorized systems might generate. Damage is minimized in all aspects and tissue integrity is better preserved. The most essential feature of this technique is the absence of graft losses.
Graft placement and implantation
Follicles are placed meticulously into incisions by using a special tool called ‘’KEEP’’. Using this special tool offers protection against mechanical damage.
