1. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) – Also Known as the "Strip Method"

How It Works:

• A strip of skin is surgically removed from the back of the scalp.
• The strip is dissected into individual grafts under a microscope.
• These grafts are then implanted into the recipient area.

Level of Surgeon Involvement:

• The surgeon is heavily involved in removing the strip and closing the wound, ensuring minimal scarring.
• Dissection is often done by a team of technicians under the surgeon’s supervision.
• Implantation may be shared between the surgeon and technicians.

Pros:

• Ideal for large areas of hair loss—can transplant more grafts in a single session.
• Lower transection rate (damage to hair follicles during extraction).
• Typically less expensive than other methods.

Cons:

• Leaves a linear scar on the donor area.
• Longer recovery time compared to FUE and DHI.

2. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) – The Most Popular Method

How It Works:

• Individual hair follicles are extracted one by one from the donor area using a punch tool.
• The extracted follicles are then implanted into the recipient area.

Level of Surgeon Involvement:

• Surgeon involvement varies by clinic. In premium clinics, the surgeon performs most or all of the procedure.
• However, in some clinics, technicians extract and implant the grafts, with the surgeon only supervising.
• Proper FUE technique requires precision, and surgeon-led procedures generally yield better results.

Pros:

• No linear scar—only tiny dot scars that are less visible.
• Quicker recovery time compared to FUT.
• Suitable for patients who prefer shorter haircuts.

Cons:

• Requires more time and precision, which can increase costs.
• Risk of higher transection rates if performed by inexperienced technicians.

3. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) – The Most Advanced FUE Variation

How It Works:

• Like FUE, hair follicles are extracted individually.
• The difference lies in the implantation process: grafts are implanted immediately using a special tool called a Choi Implanter Pen, without creating pre-made incisions.

Level of Surgeon Involvement:

• High level of surgeon involvement is typically required for DHI.
• In high-end clinics, the surgeon performs both extraction and implantation.
• The precision of DHI makes it difficult for less experienced technicians to handle.

Pros:

• Offers the most precise graft placement and natural hairline design.
• Reduces graft exposure time, improving survival rates.
• Less trauma to the scalp and quicker healing.

Cons:

• More expensive than FUE and FUT.
• Time-consuming, making it slower, and may take more than a day to complete

Choosing the Right Method for You

• Large Areas of Hair Loss? Consider FUT for its high graft yield.
• Want a Scar-Free Look? FUE is a great option if you prefer shorter hairstyles.
• Looking for Ultimate Precision? DHI is ideal for natural-looking hairlines and faster healing.

When choosing a clinic, always ask who will be performing each step of the procedure. The best results come from clinics where the surgeon is deeply involved in both extraction and implantation, especially with FUE and DHI.

Key Takeaways

• FUT offers high graft numbers but leaves a linear scar.
• FUE provides natural results with minimal scarring but requires precision.
• DHI is the most advanced method, ensuring perfect graft placement, but it comes at a higher cost.
• Surgeon involvement is critical, especially in FUE and DHI—avoid clinics that rely heavily on technicians for key steps.