The FUE method of hair transplant surgery is often referred to as the scarless surgery method. But is FUE really scarless?

FUE surgery was probably first named the scarless method due to the difference in extraction technique from the FUT/Strip method. The FUT/strip method utilizes the excision of a strip of scalp on the back of the head. The grafts are then extracted from this piece of scalp. This method leaves behind a scar where the scalp was excised.
The FUE method utilizes individual graft extraction from the scalp. Each graft is extracted one-by-one directly from the scalp. No scalp excision is required.
While no elongated scar is left behind by the FUE method, there is still a possibility for scarring. This comes from the punches that are being made in the back of the scalp to extract grafts.
That being said, if the FUE method of surgery is done correctly, with the latest advanced extraction tools and advanced skill and technique, scarring can be non-existent or at least non-visible to the naked eye.
According to Dr. Amir Yazdan, many hair transplant practices are utilizing a punch tool that is much too large and increases the risk for scarring. He states that most practices use a 1.0-2.0 mm punch to extract grafts. This is much larger than the 0.7 mm punch he uses at Modena Hair Center.
Why don’t they use a smaller punch tool? Dr. Yazdan states, “the smaller the tool the more skill that is required to properly extract the grafts. Not only do many physicians lack this level of skill, but so do robotic hair transplant assistants like the Neograft and Artas. These machines are notorious for leaving very visible punch scars.”
If you are interested in the FUE method of surgery and are hoping for the most scarless outcome possible, make sure to research your potential surgeon thoroughly. You’ll want to make sure they do the procedure by hand (not through robotic assistance), they are certified and registered as a hair transplant surgeon by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons, and they have plenty of experience.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Amir Yazdan, give us a call today.