FUE and FUT are both proven hair transplant methods with 90 to 95 percent graft survival rates. FUE extracts individual follicles through tiny punches, while FUT removes a donor strip for microscopic dissection. This overview breaks down exactly how each method works so you can decide which fits your situation.
How FUE Works
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is the more popular method in 2026. The surgeon uses a micro-punch tool, typically 0.7 to 1.0mm in diameter, to extract individual follicular units directly from the donor area at the back and sides of the scalp.
The FUE Extraction Process
The surgeon shaves or trims the donor area, then uses the punch tool to score around each follicular unit. The graft is lifted out with forceps and placed in a holding solution. This process repeats hundreds or thousands of times during a single session.
Modern FUE can harvest up to 5,000 grafts per session. Each extraction leaves a tiny circular wound that heals into a small dot scar, barely visible even with a shaved head.
FUE Variations
Several FUE sub-types have emerged:
- Manual FUE: Surgeon operates the punch by hand. Offers maximum control.
- Motorized FUE: Uses a powered punch device for faster extraction.
- Sapphire FUE: Uses sapphire-tipped blades for recipient site incisions, enabling denser packing and faster healing.
- Robotic FUE (ARTAS): AI-guided robotic arm assists with extraction. Consistent graft quality but limited to straight hair types.
- DHI (Direct Hair Implantation): A specialized form of FUE where grafts are loaded into a Choi pen and implanted directly without pre-made recipient sites.
How FUT Works
Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), also called the strip method, takes a different approach. Instead of extracting individual grafts, the surgeon removes a strip of scalp tissue from the donor area and closes the wound with sutures or staples.
The FUT Dissection Process
A skilled dissection team separates the strip into individual follicular units under stereomicroscopes. This careful process preserves the protective tissue around each graft, which some studies suggest contributes to strong survival rates.
FUT can yield up to 4,000 grafts per session from a single strip. The strip is typically 1 to 1.5 centimeters wide and 15 to 30 centimeters long, depending on the scalp's laxity and the number of grafts needed.
The Linear Scar
FUT leaves a linear scar across the back of the head. With proper closure technique (trichophytic closure), hair grows through the scar, making it less visible. Most patients can conceal it with hair kept at 1 inch or longer. If you prefer very short hairstyles or a shaved head, this scar may be a dealbreaker.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | FUE | FUT |
|---|---|---|
| Extraction method | Individual punch (0.7-1.0mm) | Strip removal and dissection |
| Scarring | Small dot scars | Linear scar |
| Max grafts per session | Up to 5,000 | Up to 4,000 |
| Graft survival rate | 90-95% | 90-95% |
| Recovery time | 7-10 days | 10-14 days |
| US cost per graft | $4-6 | $3-5 |
| Turkey cost per graft | $1-2 | $1-2 |
| Donor area shaving | Usually required | Not required |
| Procedure time | 6-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Best for Norwood stage | 2-5 | 4-7 |
When FUE is the Better Choice
FUE makes more sense for patients who want flexibility in hairstyle, including the option to shave their head in the future. The dot scars from FUE are nearly invisible at most hair lengths.
Ideal FUE Candidates
- Norwood 2 to 5 patients needing 1,000 to 4,000 grafts
- Patients who wear their hair short or may shave their head
- Those with good donor density who want to preserve it evenly
- Patients who prefer a faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort
- Anyone who needs body or beard hair grafts (only possible with FUE)
FUE also works well for scar revision, eyebrow transplants, and beard transplants because of its precision in both extraction and placement.
When FUT is the Better Choice
FUT remains the stronger option for patients who need maximum grafts from a single session and do not mind a linear scar. The strip method extracts grafts more efficiently, making it ideal for extensive hair loss.
Ideal FUT Candidates
- Norwood 5 to 7 patients needing 3,000 to 4,000 grafts per session
- Patients who keep their hair at least 1 inch long
- Those who want to preserve donor follicle density for future sessions
- Patients on a tighter budget (FUT is typically 20 to 30 percent cheaper per graft)
- Cases where maximum graft yield from a single procedure matters most
FUT is also commonly used as a first procedure, with FUE reserved for touch-up sessions later. This sequential approach maximizes total graft yield over a patient's lifetime.
The Combined Approach
Some surgeons recommend using both methods across multiple sessions. A typical plan might look like this:
- Session 1 (FUT): Harvest 3,500 to 4,000 grafts via strip method to restore the hairline and midscalp.
- Session 2 (FUE): 12 to 18 months later, extract 2,000 to 3,000 additional grafts via FUE to fill the crown or add density.
This approach maximizes total graft yield because FUE can harvest from areas around the FUT scar that would otherwise go unused. Surgeons who perform both methods are well-positioned to create a long-term restoration plan.
Key Factors for Your Decision
Before choosing a method, evaluate these five factors:
1. Hair Loss Stage
Mild to moderate loss (Norwood 2 to 4) works well with FUE. Advanced loss (Norwood 5 to 7) may benefit from FUT's higher per-session graft count.
2. Hairstyle Preferences
If you ever want to wear your hair very short or shaved, FUE is the clear winner. FUT's linear scar is visible at short lengths.
3. Budget
FUT costs less per graft in most markets. For a 3,000-graft procedure in the US, FUT saves roughly $3,000 to $6,000 compared to FUE. In Turkey, the price gap is smaller.
4. Recovery Timeline
FUE patients typically return to normal activities in 7 to 10 days. FUT requires 10 to 14 days, and the donor area may feel tight or uncomfortable for several weeks as the incision heals.
5. Long-Term Planning
If you anticipate needing multiple sessions over your lifetime, discuss a long-term donor management strategy with your surgeon. The combined FUT-then-FUE approach preserves the most donor follicles.
For a deeper look at how FUE and FUT compare on specific topics, explore our detailed guides on candidacy, recovery, results, costs, and risks. Read the complete FUE guide or our FUE vs FUT detailed comparison for more information.
Next Steps
Use our free AI analysis tool at myhairline.ai to assess your hair loss stage and get a personalized recommendation for whether FUE, FUT, or a combined approach is right for you.