Follicular Unit Extraction

ABSTRACT

Follicular unit extraction (FUE) is a method of producing follicular unit hair grafts that involves removing the grafts individually from the scalp. The advantages of this technique over the conventional strip harvest are that it does not leave a linear scar, and the procedure produces little or no postoperative pain and discomfort. There are some disadvantages such as increased surgical times, graft fragility, and higher cost to the patient. This article describes the instrumentation and surgical methodology of FUE. It also presents some surgical difficulties and how to minimize their impact. Indications and patient candidacy are also discussed.

Hair transplantation - follicular unit extraction - FUE - graft production

REFERENCES

• 1 Inaba M. Androgenetic Alopecia: Modern Concepts of Pathogenesis and Treatment. Tokyo, Japan; Springer-Verlag 1996: 238-245
• 2 Rassman W R, Bernstein R M, McClellan R, Jones R, Worton E, Uyttendaele H. Follicular unit extraction: minimally invasive surgery for hair transplantation.  Dermatol Surg. 2002;  28 720-728
• 3 Harris J A. Follicular unit extraction: the SAFE system.  Hair Transplant Forum Int. 2004;  14 157-164
• 4 Harris J A. New methodology and instrumentation for follicular unit extraction: lower follicle transection and expanded patient candidacy.  Dermatol Surg. 2006;  32 56-62
• 5 Rassman W, Harris J, Bernstein R. Follicular unit extraction. In: Haber R, Dow D Hair Transplantation. Philadelphia, PA; Elsevier Saunders 2006: 133-137
• 6 Hwang S. Long term evaluation of hair transplantation into various recipient sites.  Hair Transplant Forum Int. 2006;  16 37, 43-45