Comparing Different Hair Transplant Techniques

1. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

FUE involves extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area (usually the back of the scalp) and placing them in the thinning or balding areas. It does not require stitches and leaves small dot-like scars that typically heal with minimal visibility.

Key Points:

• Minimally invasive

• Shorter downtime

• Individual follicle extraction

Avg. Cost per Graft: $6–$10

Scarring: Tiny round scars, scattered

Healing Time: ~7–10 days

Consider If: You prefer a less invasive method with no visible linear scarring

2. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

FUT, sometimes called the “strip method,” removes a narrow strip of scalp from the donor area. The follicles are dissected under a microscope and transplanted into the recipient area.

Key Points:

• Can yield more grafts in a single session

• Typically lower cost per graft

• Involves a linear scar

Avg. Cost per Graft: $4–$7

Scarring: Linear scar at the donor site

Healing Time: ~10–14 days

Consider If: You need a high number of grafts and plan to wear longer hair

3. Direct Hair Implantation (DHI)

DHI is a variation of FUE using a specialized tool called a Choi Implanter Pen. It allows the surgeon to implant hair follicles directly into the scalp without needing to pre-make channels.

Key Points:

• Allows control over angle, depth, and direction

• No recipient site incisions needed

• Longer procedure time due to precision

Avg. Cost per Graft: $8–$12

Scarring: Tiny round scars, like FUE

Healing Time: ~10 days

Consider If: You’re focused on specific placement control, such as for hairline work or denser fills

4. Robotic-Assisted FUE

This method uses robotic systems (like ARTAS) to assist in the follicle harvesting process. The robot uses AI-guided mapping to identify optimal follicles and extract them consistently.

Key Points:

• Aims for consistency and efficiency

• Surgeon still oversees key steps

• Limited to certain clinics and operators

Avg. Cost per Graft: $8–$10

Scarring: Same as manual FUE (small, dot-like scars)

Healing Time: ~7–10 days

Consider If: You’re seeking a technology-assisted option with emphasis on graft consistency

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP is often paired with hair transplants or used alone. Blood is drawn, processed to concentrate platelets, and injected into the scalp to help stimulate hair growth and improve healing.

Key Points:

• Not a transplant method on its own

• May enhance results or support early-stage hair loss

• Typically done in multiple sessions

Avg. Cost per Session: $400–$900

Scarring: None

Healing Time: Minimal

Consider If: You’re looking to support transplant recovery or thicken existing hair

Final Thoughts

Hair transplant results depend not only on the technique but also on factors like donor hair quality, clinic skill level, and personal goals. Reviewing your hair loss pattern, lifestyle preferences, budget, and recovery expectations with a qualified provider can help you determine a realistic and suitable option.