While the FUT procedure is generally considered safe and effective, it is important to carefully follow the instructions provided by your surgeon before and after care to ensure the best possible outcome. This includes taking care of the incision site, avoiding certain activities and behaviours, and properly caring for the transplanted hair.
In this blog, we will explore the before and after care instructions for FUT, including what to expect before and after the procedure, how to care for the incision site, and how to properly care for the transplanted hair to ensure it grows and looks its best.
By following these instructions, you can help to ensure that your FUT procedure is a success and that you can enjoy the full benefits of your new hair.
What is Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)?
Follicular unit transplantation (FUT) is a surgical procedure used to restore hair loss or to treat baldness. It involves the removal of a strip of hair-bearing skin from the back of the head, which is then dissected under a microscope into individual follicular units (small groups of hair follicles). These follicular units are then transplanted to the areas of the scalp where hair is thinning or missing.
What Can You Expect Before the Procedure?
FUT is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with the procedure taking several hours to complete depending on the number of follicular units being transplanted. It is typically performed under local anesthesia and the incision site is closed with sutures or staples.
FUT is considered a safe and effective treatment for hair loss and has a high success rate. It is commonly used to treat male and female pattern baldness, as well as other types of hair loss such as alopecia areata.
What Are the Advantages of FUT?
One of the main advantages of FUT is that it allows for the transplantation of a larger number of follicular units in a single session, which can help to create a more natural-looking result. Additionally, the procedure does not leave a linear scar, as the incision site is typically hidden in the back of the head where the hair is thicker.
It is important to note that the FUT procedure does not provide immediate results and it may take several months for the transplanted hair to grow and for the full results of the procedure to become apparent. Proper aftercare and follow-up with your surgeon are essential to ensure the best possible outcome.
Who Is a Candidate for the Procedure?
Follicular unit transplantation (FUT) is a surgical procedure used to restore hair loss or to treat baldness. It is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced significant hair loss or thinning and are looking for a permanent solution to their hair loss.
Several factors can impact whether or not an individual is a good candidate for the FUT procedure, including:
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The extent of hair loss: FUT is typically most effective for individuals with moderate to severe hair loss. It may not be suitable for individuals with very advanced hair loss or those who have a very small amount of hair-bearing scalp available for transplantation. -
The cause of hair loss: FUT is typically most effective for individuals with male or female pattern baldness, as well as other types of hair loss such as alopecia areata. It may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or treatments that have caused hair loss. -
Overall health: FUT is generally considered safe, but it is still a surgical procedure. Individuals who are in good overall health and do not have any underlying medical conditions that could complicate the procedure or the healing process may be more likely to be good candidates for the procedure. -
Hair type and texture: FUT may not be suitable for individuals with very fine or thin hair, as the transplanted hair may not blend in well with the existing hair. -
Age: FUT can be performed on individuals of any age, but it may not be suitable for individuals who are very young or very old, as the healing process may be more difficult in these cases.
Before & After Care for Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
Proper before and after care is important to ensure the best possible outcome from the FUT procedure.
Before the FUT procedure:
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Inform your surgeon of any medications or supplements that you are taking, as these may need to be stopped or adjusted before the procedure. -
Avoid taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or blood thinners for at least one week before the procedure, as these can increase the risk of bleeding. -
Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least one week before the procedure. -
Follow any instructions provided by your surgeon for preparing for the procedure, such as showering with an antimicrobial soap the day before the procedure and avoiding food and drink for a certain period of time before the procedure.
After the FUT procedure:
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Take any prescribed medications as directed. -
Keep the incision site clean and dry, and follow any instructions provided by your surgeon for caring for the incision site. -
Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least one week after the procedure. -
Avoid exposing the incision site to direct sunlight or UV rays for at least two weeks after the procedure. -
Avoid shampooing your hair for at least two days after the procedure. When you do shampoo your hair, be gentle and avoid scrubbing the transplanted area. -
Avoid using hair products such as gels, mousses, or hair sprays for at least one week after the procedure. -
Avoid picking or scratching the transplanted area, as this can cause damage to the newly transplanted hair follicles.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by your surgeon for before and after care to ensure the best possible outcome from the FUT procedure. If you have any questions or concerns about your care, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Colin Hong for further guidance.