FUT Hair Transplant (Strip Method)

What is FUT?

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)—also called the strip method—is a surgical hair transplant technique in which a narrow strip of scalp is removed from the donor area (typically the back of the head). This strip is then meticulously dissected under magnification by a skilled surgical team into individual follicular units, which are transplanted into areas of thinning or hair loss.

FUT is particularly well-suited for patients who need a large number of grafts in a single session, as the strip harvest method allows more follicles to be obtained efficiently compared to individual FUE extraction.

The FUT Process

The procedure begins with the removal of a carefully measured strip of scalp from the donor zone under local anesthesia. The resulting wound is closed with dissolvable sutures, leaving a fine linear scar that is concealed beneath the surrounding hair at normal lengths. The harvested strip is then divided into individual follicular units under microscopic dissection. Dr. Kieu designs the recipient hairline and implants each graft with attention to natural angulation, density, and distribution.

Advantages of FUT

• High graft yield in a single session—ideal for significant hair loss
• Follicles harvested with their surrounding tissue, supporting viability
• Efficient for patients needing full coverage of large areas
• Donor area hair does not need to be shaved short
• Can be combined with FUE in subsequent sessions to maximize lifetime graft yield

Scar Considerations

FUT leaves a fine linear scar in the donor area. For patients who keep their hair at a moderate length, this scar is completely hidden. Patients who prefer to wear their hair very short (buzz cut) may prefer FUE, which leaves only tiny dot-like marks. Dr. Kieu will discuss this factor honestly during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Timeline

Like all hair transplants, transplanted FUT grafts shed in the first few weeks and regrow progressively. Significant new growth is visible by 6 months, with full results at 9–12 months.

Ideal Candidates

• Patients with significant hair loss requiring a large number of grafts
• Those who maintain hair length that conceals a linear scar
• Patients who want maximum graft count in a single procedure
• Good donor zone density and good general health
• Patients who prefer not to shave the back of their head