What are the Best Hair Transplant Methods?

Hair Transplantation Techniques: A History of Progress

As they age, the majority of men suffer from male pattern baldness (MPB), the progressive loss of hair. But there’s no need to despair. There are now many treatment methods to encourage hair regrowth.

One of the most popular is the hair transplant. They have come on leaps and bounds since the first operation was recorded in 1939, when a single follicle was successfully transplanted. Today, there are a number of methods to choose from.

But which is the best hair transplant method? Here, we’ll run you through your options. In reality, though, the best method is the one that works for you. A clinician can help you find out exactly what you need.

How Do Hair Transplants Work?

Hair transplants work by taking healthy hair follicles from one area of the scalp and inserting them into an area affected by hair loss. Thanks to effective surgical techniques, hair restoration surgery enables these transplanted follicles to thrive in the recipient area.

Donor hair is usually taken from the back of the head, as this is where strong hair growth is most likely. Then, these grafts are inserted into the hairline or crown — the areas often first affected by MPB.

Ultimately, the new follicles from the donor area continue to grow, providing natural hair growth where hair wasn’t growing before.

The Two Main Types of Hair Transplant

Two main techniques are used in hair transplant surgery:

Follicular unit transplantation (FUT): FUT is a hair transplant procedure that involves taking a strip of skin from the donor area. That strip is then divided into smaller pieces containing one or two follicles, and these follicles are then inserted into the balding area.
Follicular unit extraction (FUE): The FUE hair transplant removes individual hair follicles from the donor area and inserts them one by one.

But which one is best?

What is the Best Hair Transplant Method?

The FUE procedure is usually considered “the best” hair transplant method. Yet, in reality, the best method will be the one that is most appropriate for you. And that’s not the same for everyone.

Here’s how they differ:

The Differences Between FUE and FUT

Cost: Firstly, FUT and FUE differ in price. As FUE requires longer to be completed, you tend to pay more.
Scarring: FUE is often marketed as a hair transplant procedure that doesn’t leave a scar. More accurately, it leaves a less visible scar. FUT requires an incision to remove a skin graft. But this often leaves a linear scar. On the other hand, FUE leaves smaller individual scars where individual hairs are removed. These tend to be less noticeable.
Application: As it’s more labour-intensive and requires greater precision, FUE is less commonly used when a large area of hair needs to be transplanted.
Skill: Both hair transplant methods need specialist skills. Yet, due to its more precise demands, it’s even more important that FUE is only performed by a surgeon whose success rates you can verify.

What are New Hair Transplant Methods?

While FUT and FUE are still the most popular hair transplant methods out there, some innovative new developments are beginning to emerge. We’re not yet in the position to say whether these are the best, but they may offer some benefits.

Direct hair implant (DHI): DHI works in a similar way to FUE. Follicles are removed one by one and implanted individually. But during FUE, channels are cut into the donor area in which to place hair follicles. In DHI, these channels aren’t needed. The follicles are inserted directly into your scalp.
NeoGraft: Again, NeoGraft is similar to FUE. But this time, hair follicles are removed through suction and are then placed into the donor site with an implantation tool that doesn’t require a prior incision. It’s believed to be quicker and potentially less damaging to hair follicles than conventional hair transplantations.

Getting the Best Hair Transplant Service

Whichever hair transplantation method you ultimately receive, you must get a reliable and professional service. That means two things:

A consultation: During a consultation, a hair restoration clinician will advise you on the best hair transplant method for you. They will talk you through your options, including budget, time, and results.
Aftercare: Typically, you’ll require ongoing support after your hair surgery. That’s because hair grafts need help to grow at their best. You may be offered two hair loss treatments that can support your hair growth into the future:
- Finasteride: A reliable hair loss medication that tackles the root cause of MPB. It’s effective in 90% of men that use it.
- Minoxidil: A topical treatment that ensures the health of your hair follicles by optimising nutrient and oxygen levels in the scalp.

Both can be used to support a hair transplant, and sometimes they can replace a transplant altogether. Get in touch with us to find out the best option for you.

Key Takeaways

What is the best hair transplant method? Often, that’s said to be FUE, follicular unit extraction. However, FUT – follicular unit transplantation – can be just as effective for some.

In reality, either one can work for you, so long as you get the best possible service when receiving your hair transplant. We can help. Get in touch for a consultation.

FAQs

What is the Best Alternative to Hair Transplant?

The best alternatives to hair transplants are hair loss medications. The most effective of these are Finasteride and Minoxidil. Over 90% of men who use Finasteride see hair regrowth — and you may be advised to use it even after your hair transplant too.

What is the Success Rate for a Hair Transplant?

Success rates for hair transplants are typically high. Over 90% of grafts survive in the donor site, and the majority of patients report that they’re satisfied with the results.

While we've ensured that everything you read on the Health Centre is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.