Hair transplantation

FUE and FUT are both surgery

FUT obtains grafts from a strip of hair-bearing scalp; FUE removes follicular units individually. FUT usually leaves a linear scar and FUE multiple small scars: “scarless transplantation” is not a reliable description. Choice depends on donor supply, preferred haircut, previous scars and long-term planning, rather than a machine name or robotic marketing alone.

Section sources: ISHRS · Surgeon selection, FUE/FUT and scarring · AAD · Hair transplantation: candidacy and expectations

Diagnosis and donor supply come first

The clinician must assess the cause of loss, donor density and quality, and the recipient area’s potential for growth. Diffuse thinning or active scarring inflammation can change suitability and may require investigation or biopsy. In a young person with an uncertain loss trajectory, treatment and observation may be preferable before surgery. Online photographs cannot complete that assessment.

Section sources: AAD · Hair transplantation: candidacy and expectations · AAD · Hair loss diagnosis and treatment

Better coverage, not unlimited density

A realistic goal may be improved coverage and a natural hairline rather than adolescent density everywhere. Transplanted shafts can initially shed, with subsequent growth assessed over months; AAD describes results commonly at six to nine months, sometimes twelve. Non-transplanted hair can continue thinning. Discuss medical management and the possibility of future surgery before committing the donor reserve.

Section sources: AAD · Hair transplantation: candidacy and expectations · ASPS · Hair transplantation risks

Choose the surgeon and follow-up plan

Clarify the surgeon’s identity, each team member’s role, local licence and responsibility for postoperative problems. Disclose chronic disease, diabetes, smoking, poor healing, medicines and supplements without stopping prescribed treatment yourself. If travelling, establish follow-up and access to in-person complication assessment before paying. Price per graft alone does not capture surgical quality, donor preservation or the cost of corrective care.

Section sources: ISHRS · Surgeon selection, FUE/FUT and scarring · ISHRS · Patient risk factors in hair restoration surgery

Graft recovery needs surgical instructions

Both donor and recipient areas need care. Crusts, swelling and tenderness can occur, but washing, head coverings, exercise and suture care depend on the operation. Do not pick crusts or apply facial massage or exfoliation instructions to fresh grafts. Obtain written instructions and a contact number. Feeling well does not mean the wounds are ready for strenuous activity.

Section sources: ASPS · Hair transplantation recovery

Shampoo, serums and sun protection

Use the surgeon-approved shampoo or solution and washing method. Do not add growth serums, camouflage fibres, dye, oils or ointments to fresh grafts without clearance; generic wound advice is not permission to coat every graft with petrolatum. Clarify restarting topical medicines and sun protection. Shade and an approved, non-rubbing covering matter until topical products are appropriate.

Section sources: ASPS · Hair transplantation recovery · AAD · Wound care and sun protection after healing (2025 update)

When surgical review is urgent

Continuing bleeding, increasing pain, spreading redness or warmth, pus, bad smell or fever need prompt surgical contact and assessment. Darkening tissue or an opening wound should not wait until a holiday ends. Call 911 for chest pain, breathing difficulty, collapse or severe symptoms. Do not squeeze new pustules or nodules, or start antibiotics or steroids without assessment.

Section sources: CDC · Surgical site infection symptoms and response · ASPS · Hair transplantation risks

Frequently asked questions

Related guides to explore

• PRP for pattern hair loss
• Low-level light/laser for hair

Sources and context

Canadian sources take priority for regulatory context. FDA or other foreign information does not establish Canadian authorization for a product or use. A source-check date is distinct from publication date or independent clinical approval.

1. ISHRS · Surgeon selection, FUE/FUT and scarringsociety · 2026-10-17
2. AAD · Hair transplantation: candidacy and expectationssociety · 2026-10-17
3. AAD · Hair loss diagnosis and treatmentsociety · 2026-10-17
4. ASPS · Hair transplantation riskssociety · 2026-10-17
5. ISHRS · Patient risk factors in hair restoration surgerysociety · 2026-10-17
6. ASPS · Hair transplantation recoverysociety · 2026-10-17
7. AAD · Wound care and sun protection after healing (2025 update)society · 2026-10-17
8. CDC · Surgical site infection symptoms and responsepublic-health · 2026-10-17