Plastic surgery

Consultants

Hair transplantation with the FUT Technique

The capillary graft technique known as the TIRA technique (FUT or FUSS) has been the traditional method of hair transplantation in recent years, but thanks to the microscopic dissection of the donor piece in Follicular Units it is still a very good option, especially in men with advanced alopecia seeking maximum coverage.

Below we detail in detail but schematic the main aspects of this technique.

Definition

Technique by which the follicular units are removed by extracting a band or strip of skin with hair from the occipital area, using a surgical instrument: the scalpel. Subsequently, the units are dissected or separated from the strip one by one.

Surgical material used

To extract the strip, a classic scalpel is used.

The cut of the hair

With this technique it is not necessary to shave the hair of the whole donor area, but only the band that is going to be extracted, being able to be disguised with the hair that is left over.

 

With modern trichophytic suture techniques the scar will be almost undetectable, if the patient’s hair is more than 5 mm in length. In most patients it is difficult to “find” it, even with very short hair.

 

The scar may be visible in some patients, if the head is shaved or if the baldness progresses due to a poor selection of the donor area.

Anesthesia

Local (possibility of sedation with anesthesiologist, on request).

Type of incisions for extraction

Cut with scalpel / Linear incision.

Extraction

Removal of a scalp band (20 to 25 cm and 1 to 1.5 cm wide) from the donor area using a scalpel that penetrates the skin. Subsequently, it is sutured and a period of about 30 days is required for total healing.

Extraction of hair from other areas of the body

You can not get hair from other parts of the body with this method.

Folicullar damage

Physicians, nurses and assistants must be very careful not to damage the follicular units of the donor area by the scalpel at the time of extraction, and in the microscopic dissection performed later.

Degree of invasion

The technique of the strip is considered a minor surgery. It is an invasive procedure that involves a cut in the skin on the occipital (posterior) part of the scalp. The doctor who performs it must have a lot of surgical skill to be able to leave undetectable scars.

Quality of Follicular Units

Good The follicular units are usually surrounded by more tissue.
In inexperienced hands, the extraction of the strip can cut or damage a% of follicles in the lateral areas of the strip where the scalpel impinges on the depth of the skin.

 

With the technique of the strip, it is essential to have a well experienced team that handles the units with care during the dissection under a microscope.

Selection of Follicular Units

The extraction by the FUSS method is based on the removal of a strip of 20-25 cm long by 1-1.5 cm wide. If we take into account that the average density is usually 70 follicular units per cm2, approximately 2,500-3,000 follicular units will be extracted.

Number of follicles per section

It allows obtaining a greater number of more “robust” Follicular Units guaranteeing the survival of practically 100% of the units, provided that equipment with high dexterity and professionalism is available, besides, it does not need “shaving”. It is indicated for patients with extensive baldness, small donor area and / or with low density.

Implantation

It is made with high precision instruments that allow microincisions with the appropriate angle and direction to obtain optimal results.
The units are implanted with clamps or with the so called “Keep”

The same day postoperative

The patient will present the recipient area full of grafts, which will transform into scabs with the passing of days. A linear scar with stitches remains in the donor area.

Postoperatrive recovery

The patient who undergoes this technique has a very important responsibility in post-operative care.

 

The method of the strip requires no sports or gym for at least 3 months after the intervention. Any movement involving the anterior bending of the head (tying the shoes, reading …) must be done with caution so as not to inflict traction on the wound.

2nd week after surgery

Washing and removal of crusts at 6-7 days. Withdrawal of stitches at 12-14 days.

Final result

12 months – The final result is observed one year after the intervention