In this new entry of the Instituto Capilar de Alicante blog we want to explain what the FUE transplant technique is and what it consists of. Much is said about it as the best form and the most advanced system in hair surgery for women and men, but a high percentage of citizens do not know exactly what it is about. That question and some others is what this article will try to solve.
First of all, what are the initials FUE? FUE stands for Follicular Unit Extraction. This means that the follicular unit (which can be made up of one, two, three, or four hairs) is extracted from a donor area, and grafted into a recipient area. Follicle to follicle, an excellent result is achieved that leaves no marks or scars.
The donor area referred to is usually the back of the hair where the hair does not genetically fall, and the recipient area is the place where alopecia occurs. This is achieved in three phases and with local anaesthesia after shaving the hair.
Firstly, with a microscopic instrument the follicles are extracted, one by one and as many as necessary. In addition, the best ones can be chosen for their thickness and quality. Then they line up and prepare on a base enabled for it. Third, through a system of micro grafts, they are placed in the receiving area.
It should be said that it is possible not to shave the head, although for a perfect extraction of the follicles the best way is to shave the hair, at least in the donor area. However, there are patients who due to social reasons cannot shave, but this is not an impediment in the FUE technique.
This system is itself a redistribution of hair through hair surgery. There are areas with abundant hair and others lacking it. Moving from one area to another is the ultimate goal of the FUE technique.
The hair in the extraction area no longer comes out, since the follicular unit is extracted, but it is imperceptible given the amount existing in the donor part and a good selection achieves excellent results. Similarly, the hair received no longer falls, as it is genetically prepared not to do so (androgenetic alopecia no longer affects it).
It is difficult to speak of deadlines, because each patient responds in a way, but in general it can be said that a satisfactory result can be seen after four months, and that up to one year the transplant shows a favorable evolution.
Origin of FUE:
Explained what this technique consists of, where does it come from? The common form previously used was FUSS (Follicular Unit Strip Surgery) or strip extraction. For this, entire strips of fur were removed using a scalpel to take them to receiving areas. This had the disadvantage that the linear scar was too visible with very short hair.
For this, capillary surgery evolved, and instead of sections, each follicular unit is chosen individually, with less penetration, and therefore better healing and a more natural final result.
Legend has it that it was in Turkey, where the Islamic religion is the majority, where this technique was born. Aesthetic operations are not well regarded in this religion. On the other hand, in the grief of family members it is a tradition of respect to shave their heads. Before FUE, this fact revealed the scars of the transplant. So it evolved into a way in which the result is not detectable once the process is finished.
In conclusion, it can be affirmed that FUE is the best way known today to do a hair transplant, and that the Alicante Hair Institute is always up to date with the latest avant-gardes with Dr. Vanesa Pérez Ortiz at the helm, taking careful care of each patient in individually. Given the differentiating nature of each person, it can be said that each intervention is an exclusive small work of art, performed with millimetre accuracy, a proven professionalism, and all our love. The job well done.
