Follicular Unit Extraction

Hair loss is a common problem that affects both genders across the globe, and can be due to a variety of factors such as age, stress, illness and hormones. Once the underlying factor has been treated (such as illness or stress), then Dr. Colin Hong can begin to help restore your hair. One of the surgical treatments for hair restoration is Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), which involves manual removal of individual hair follicles from denser areas of a patient’s scalp, and then transplantation into an area that requires more density. The precision and expertise involved in this procedure requires a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Colin Hong. At FUE-Canada, we are committed to treating hair loss with patient-centered care to make sure you receive the best results you are looking for.

What is Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)?

Follicular unit extraction (FUE) is a method of hair transplant that harvests viable follicular units (hair follicles) from a patient’s donor area, one at a time, to provide that patient with units that can then be used to create full hair restoration.

At Dr. Colin Hong’s, this procedure is a two-phase process (not including time to heal) that encourages swift recovery and minimal discomfort. Our Toronto-based hair transplant clinic is renowned for creating natural FUE hair transfers in a professional and discreet environment.

WHAT CAN FOLLICULAR UNIT EXTRACTION DO FOR PATIENTS?

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) makes it possible for men and women suffering from androgenetic alopecia to experience an affordable solution to hair loss treatment.

• 95% permanent hair growth within 10 months post-op
• Zero linear scarring
• Minimal pain
• Speedy recovery

How Follicular Unit Extraction Works

FUE is one of two methods of extracting and transplanting hair follicles. Unlike strip harvesting (which extracts a strip of skin to dissect individual follicular units), FUE extracts individual follicles directly from the patient’s donor area. FUE produces less scarring and more natural results.

PHASE ONE: PRE-SURGICAL STAGE

First, we begin by giving the patient a mild sedative either orally or intravenously to minimize anxiety, reduce discomfort, and help prevent any side effects that the anesthetic may cause. Then, we cut the patient’s hair in the donor area to create a sizable strip of clipped follicles. If the hair in the donor area is left 1 to 2 inches long, the hair above the donor site should completely mask this area immediately after the procedure.

PHASE TWO: SURGICAL STAGE

Next, we anesthetize the donor area and the patient with a local anesthetic using a very small gauge needle (a needle smaller than most acupuncture needles). This is the only uncomfortable part of this procedure. Many patients express that this part of the FUE process causes less discomfort than a dental procedure. For patients who are wary of needles, we can also administer an inhalation anesthetic to provide zero pain. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, our FUE technicians use a special motorized punch extraction tool to harvest each of the donor FUE units.

At Dr. Colin Hong, we conduct FUE using a “stick and place” method for transplanting harvested follicles. The use of smaller sized grafts causes less disturbance in the skin, leading to minimal discomfort, almost zero visible scarring, and natural results.

PHASE THREE: HEALING

Once the transplant is complete, our grafts are held in place by your coagulated blood and a light but secure turban-like bandage that may be applied after the operation and left in place overnight. Patients undergoing hair transplant at the front of their scalp who do not experience more than the normal amount of bleeding during surgery can go home two hours after their procedure without a bandage around their head. However, most patients prefer the security of an overnight bandage. All patients must return the next morning to remove the bandage (if applied) and undergo a professional follow-up cleansing, hair washing, and check-up.

Benefits of Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

Advanced Technology

FUE is known as one of the most advanced procedures for restoring hair. The procedure can be carried out with the help of automated technologies to achieve optimal results. With the assistance of these technologies, patients who want to restore their hair can have a comfortable and convenient treatment.

Shorter Recovery Time

Another great benefit of FUE is that it is less invasive which also means a shorter recovery time. Under normal circumstances, you can resume your regular daily activities after the following day of your procedure. However, there are instances that you may be required by your surgeon to wear a hat during the first few days as a precaution.

No Visible Scarring

For most patients, one of the factors they consider when getting surgery is how the scar would look like after the treatment. Compared to FUT which can leave you with a long horizontal scar, FUE produces small, pinprick scars scattered throughout your scalp that are virtually invisible to the naked eye. This is what makes FUE popular over other hair transplant procedures.

Natural Looking Results

The FUE hair transplant procedure is designed to provide a natural hair appearance without leaving a visible scar on the patient’s scalp. The customized extraction and transplantation means the process results in the look that you want. This treatment has been a successful and reliable procedure over the years in addressing hair loss. Nowadays, FUE is a popular procedure for many individuals who are looking to restore their hair.

Multiple Hair Style Options

In addition to being a less invasive hair loss treatment compared to FUT, FUE is also capable of giving you options as to how you wear your new hair. The lack of any visible scarring means you can wear your hair short without worry of having noticeably undergone hair restoration.

Why Choose Dr. Colin Hong?

Many individuals who are suffering from hair loss choose to undergo Follicular Unit Extraction to help restore their hair knowing that it is one of the most advanced hair loss treatments nowadays. However, though the process of FUE seems simple to understand, it is important to know that much of the success of this treatment relies on the skill and experience of the care provider. The hair follicles must be harvested in just the right way in order to maximize their viability once transplanted. Dr. Hong and his hair transplant team have performed many years of successful FUE procedures and know the best ways to produce an outstanding result. Dr. Hong’s extensive experience in performing surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures further his reputation in providing a professional and comfortable treatment to every patient.

Training and Background

Dr. Colin Hong is a dedicated plastic surgeon in Toronto where he is known for his extensive experience in the application of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, Microvascular Surgery, and Hair Transplant Surgery. Dr. Hong actively participates with associations and fellowships to keep track of the improvements and advancements of each procedure he is performing. For cases with hair loss, Dr. Hong provides the most advanced hair transplant techniques such as FUE and FUT to achieve natural-looking results for his patients. So if you are considering hair restoration, Dr. Hong can give you recommendations on which treatment best fits your concerns.

Doctor-Patient Relationship

Dr. Colin Hong believes that good communication with his patients is key to achieving optimal results from the procedure. He also knows how important it is to address the concerns and desires of his patients to achieve optimal results. Dr. Hong closely monitors his patients after surgery to make sure their recovery is going smoothly. He is easily reachable by phone should there be any questions or concerns post-operatively.

To know more about the different options available for hair restoration, please contact us online or you can email us at customercare@fue-canada.com. We are looking forward to hearing from you.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Follicular Unit Extraction

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a hair transplant procedure that involves the extraction of individual hair follicles from a donor area and their transplantation to a recipient area experiencing hair loss or thinning. It is a minimally invasive procedure that does not involve the use of incisions or stitches.

What is the FUE process?

The FUE procedure can be broken down into several steps, which may vary slightly depending on the specific technique being used and the individual patient’s needs. Here is a general outline of the step-by-step guide to FUE:

Consultation

The first step in the FUE process is to schedule a consultation with a qualified and experienced hair transplant surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your hair loss pattern and overall health, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine if FUE is the appropriate treatment for you.

Preparation

Before the procedure, the surgeon will mark the donor and recipient areas and may also trim your hair to make it easier to work with. You may be given medications to take before the procedure to help you relax.

Anesthesia

FUE is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. The surgeon will inject the anesthesia into the scalp to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.

Extraction

Using a small punch tool, the surgeon will extract individual hair follicles from the donor area, which is typically the back or sides of the scalp. The follicles are carefully removed to minimize damage and ensure their viability for transplantation.

Implantation

The extracted hair follicles are then transplanted to the recipient area, where they will grow and produce new hair. The surgeon will carefully place the follicles in the desired pattern to achieve a natural-looking result.

Aftercare

After the procedure, the surgeon will provide instructions for caring for the transplant site and preventing infection. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and results.

Things to Consider Before Undergoing FUE

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a hair transplant procedure that can be an effective treatment for hair loss or thinning. However, it is important to carefully consider several factors before deciding to undergo FUE. Here are some things to consider before undergoing FUE:

Suitability

Not everyone is a good candidate for FUE. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced hair transplant surgeon to determine if FUE is the right treatment for you. Factors that may affect your suitability for FUE include the extent and pattern of your hair loss, the thickness and density of your existing hair, and your overall health.

Cost

FUE is generally more expensive than the traditional hair transplant procedure, known as Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT). It is important to consider the cost of the procedure and whether it is within your budget. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of hair transplantation, but it is important to check with your insurer to determine your coverage.

Recovery Time

FUE typically has a shorter recovery time compared to FUT, but it is still a surgical procedure that requires some downtime. It is important to consider the impact that the procedure and recovery time will have on your work and daily activities.

Results

FUE can produce natural-looking results, but it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. The surgeon should be able to provide you with before-and-after photos of previous patients to give you an idea of what to expect.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with FUE. These may include infection, scarring, and uneven or patchy hair growth. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and weigh them against the potential benefits of the procedure.

Overall, FUE can be a safe and effective treatment for hair loss, but it is important to carefully consider these and other factors before deciding to undergo the procedure.

The Best Surgeon for You

Choosing a hair transplant surgeon is a big decision. You want to make sure you choose a surgeon who is experienced and who you can trust to give you the best possible results. That’s why you should choose Dr. Colin Hong for your FUE procedure.

Dr. Hong is a board-certified hair transplant surgeon who has performed countless hair transplant procedures. He is an expert in the FUE procedure and he has helped many patients achieve amazing results. When you choose Dr. Hong, you can be confident that you are choosing a surgeon who will give you the best possible results.

Don’t wait any longer, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hong today and see what he can do for you.

Frequently Asked Questions