What is an FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant?
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) is a method of hair transplantation, where grafts are extracted, using either a manual or motorised punch, under local anaesthesia using punches between 0.8mm and 1.0mm, by a surgeon from what is referred to as the donor area (usually the back and sides of head).
The extracted grafts or follicles are then implanted into what is called the recipient area which is where the patient is suffering from hair loss. In the case of a scalp hair transplant, the recipient area is usually the top of the head.
How does FUE work?
We take hair grafts individually from the back of the head, as hair in these areas are not sensitive to the DHT hormone and are from the permanent area. After transplantation, they will grow forever. So, implanting hairs that are not sensitive to this hormone, into the recipient area of the scalp means that this hair is perfect to use to transplant.
Where are FUE hair grafts taken from?
In FUE procedures we use either a manual or motorised punch, under local anaesthesia using punches between 0.8mm and 1.0mm, by a surgeon from what is referred to as the donor area (usually the back and sides of head).
Can FUE create a natural hairline?
At Hillside Hair Clinic we take great pride in meticulously creating a hairline, and angulation in which the hair is positioned. The patient works with the surgeon and our expert hair adviser to draw and agree on a natural, aesthetic looking hairline, prior to surgery. Using the follicles with one hair on the front hairline and then the twos, then the threes, and then the four hairs, on each follicle, this mimics the natural hairline.
How long does an FUE procedure take?
An FUE hair transplant takes place either in one long session or over the course of several small sessions. The process is more intricate and time-consuming when compared with the alternative FUT procedure, however, the FUE procedure leaves only a fine pinhead scar which will be covered by hair growth.
How long does recovery from FUE take?
As individual follicles are removed, FUE leaves only small, puncture scars, which are practically invisible to the naked eye. There is hardly any post-surgical pain and discomfort – with the average recovery time being less than 7 days.
How long do the results of FUE last?
Once you have undergone FUE, the results are permanent. While the initial transplanted hair will shed a few weeks after treatment, it will grow back strong and healthy.
Prices for our market-leading FUE procedures start from only £1,600.
FUT is popular with woman and also with patients with extreme baldness and a good donor area, who are prepared to leave the hair a little bit longer at the back (Norwood Grade 6-7).
We offer sound, ethical advice on the amount of grafts available to you
We've created a hair graft calculator. It's an easy way to calculate the amount of hair grafts you will need to create your perfect look!
We're one of the only expert clinics in the UK to provide unshaven FUE treatments
Our unshaven FUE transplant procedure is a minimally invasive and extremely effective treatment against hair loss. This treatment is perfect for patients who feel anxious about shaving their head to undergo the hair restoration procedure.
Comparison of FUE and FUT procedures
FUE procedure (Follicular Unit Extraction)
Commonest Procedure for 80% of Patients
Men rated up to 5 on the Norwood Scale
Multiple very small scars (not noticable after healing)
Difficult to repeat in later years
Better for those who suffer keloids or scar badly
Can have short hair at the back
Can exercise after a few days
Less risk of complications
FUT procedure ( Follicular Unit Transplantation/Strip)
Currently 20% of patients have this procedure
Preferred for women
Fine linear scar
Can repeat strip procedures after many years
Need to wear hair at back longer
Need to wait 4-6 weeks before strenuous exercise
Ludwig and Savin Scale for Women
Less damage to the grafts
Our Hair Transplant Guarantee
For all hair transplantation procedures performed by Hillside Hair Clinic surgeons, we guarantee to replace any non-growing hair transplant graft, free-of-charge, providing the patient has adequate donor hair and meets our terms and conditions. In our experience, such replacement has seldom been necessary.
What our patients have to say about us...
Even my hairdresser is impressed with the results
Quite a few people, including my hairdresser, are so impressed with the results on me so early on that they are planning their own procedures with this clinic in the imminent future. This whole team at Hillside are very professional, down to earth & helpful at all times and I feel very fortunate that I…
Hillside Hair Clinic Patient
Everything went smoothly
Very welcoming and peaceful. Didn’t feel stressed about the procedure and the technicians were excellent. Everything went smoothly and there were no issues.
Elliot Smith
Friendly and professional
Friendly and professional, Kept in touch all the time. Treatment carried out well. Would definitely recommend
Craig Franks
Very professional and pleasant atmosphere/ service
Over and above all expectations, very professional and pleasant atmosphere/ service
Ollie Tye
The transplant procedure done at hillside was completely smooth sailing
I was initially very nervous about getting the procedure but on the day I was made the feel at ease and more relaxed about the whole thing, mainly due to the professionalism of everyone involved and how welcoming and nice they were. I am only on 4 months post op but I am already seeing…