What is FUE?

FUE is a superior hair loss treatment because it minimizes scarring on the back of the head. FUE is an innovative hair restoration procedure in which individual hair follicles are extracted from a donor site, usually located at the back of the scalp, and then transplanted to areas lacking or with thinning hair. Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery in Dallas offers follicle hair transplant options to help improve hair growth for a natural-looking solution to hair loss.

Candidates for the Surgery

Ideal candidates for a follicle hair transplant are people with thinning hair, those who have lost hair from an injury or surgery, and those who exhibit signs of pattern baldness -characterized by a receding hairline, thinning at the crown, or diffuse thinning across the scalp. Ideal candidates should also have a consistent source of hair from the donor site. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz will go over your medical history and specific patterns of hair loss during your consultation to create a personalized treatment plan for hair loss.

Benefits of FUE Hair Transplant

Benefits of this procedure include more natural-looking results that mimic normal hair growth patterns and smaller incisions that lead to less obvious scarring and quicker recovery. FUE also works well with a range of hair hues, textures, and kinds. Because of its adaptability, it can be used by individuals with a variety of hair types. The effects of FUE are also intended to be permanent, providing long-term satisfaction and a natural look with the right care and upkeep.

How is a FUE performed?

• Donor Hair Harvesting: A specialized tool is used to remove individual hair follicles from the donor location.
• Preparing the Recipient Site: To ensure that the harvested follicles are precisely placed, tiny incisions are made in the recipient area.
• Graft Transplantation: To achieve ideal growth and look, each follicular unit is meticulously inserted into the recipient sites.

Anesthesia for FUE Hair transplant

Most follicular hair transplant procedures are carried out under local anesthetic. A tiny needle is used to inject local anesthetic straight into the scalp to minimize discomfort throughout the procedure. The donor and recipient locations are the only regions numbed during the procedure so patients are usually awake and conscious throughout the procedure. The process is pain-free, however, some patients can experience mild pressure or tugging.

Recovery after Follicle Hair Transplant Surgery

Compared to conventional hair transplant techniques the recovery time for Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Transplant tends to be much faster. This is due to the small incisions made at the recipient site during the treatment which help minimize scarring and speed up healing. While recovery times vary, most patients can expect to be back to their normal activities in about a week. They may initially observe some redness and swelling, but that is normal and should eventually go away. To maximize healing, Dr. Azouz will provide guidelines for post-operative care.

How soon can I see the results of a FUE hair transplant?

It could take a year for the final effects to become apparent, however, patients should anticipate gradual improvements in hair growth in a few months following the procedure.

• Initial Growth: Around 3-4 months after the treatment, you may notice some initial growth, although it may be modest and uneven.
• Visible Changes: After 5-6 months, you’ll probably notice more noticeable evidence of growth and covering.
• Maturity and Final Results: The full picture usually emerges about 12 months after surgery, although it might take up to 18 months for complete maturation. This is when the transplanted hair reaches its maximum thickness and texture.

The good news is that FUE hair transplants provide permanent results. The transplanted hair follicles are from a genetically resistant location and will not be affected by future hair loss.

Are there any risks associated with follicular hair transplants?

Although FUE is generally safe, there is a chance of bleeding, infection, or scarring. During your consultation, Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz will go over all possible risks in detail to address any concerns patients might have and to make sure they are informed. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz uses meticulous techniques to minimize risks associated with FUE hair transplant surgery.

How much does a FUE hair transplant cost?

Expected costs for follicular hair transplants can vary based on the individual’s extent of hair loss and the quantity of grafts required. With individual consultations, Dr. Azouz can provide precise cost estimates that are suited to a patient’s personal goals.

Combining procedures with FUE Hair Transplant

Microneedling when done on the scalp works to increase blood flow and creation of collagen. When paired with FUE, it can enhance growth factor absorption, promote better integration of transplanted hair follicles, and facilitate healing.