The FUE hair transplant (Follicular Unit Extraction) is a technique that allows hair to be extracted from the most densely populated areas of the head (usually the nape of the neck) to graft it into areas where there is little or no hair. The distinct feature of this technique is that the extraction is performed hair by hair (actually follicle by follicle, which is the base from which several hairs sprout) and by relocating the patient’s own hair, we obtain a precise, natural, and scarless result.
How long does the procedure take?
It depends on the amount of hair to be transplanted. The FUE hair transplant is usually carried out in one day, in a session of up to 8 hours with several breaks. If the number of hairs to be transplanted is very high [3500-4000], it can be done in two sessions, leaving a few days or weeks in between.
After the transplant
The patient goes home on the same day, with the following recommendations:
- Do not wash your hair or sunbathe for the two days following the procedure
- Take analgesics and anti-inflammatories if there is a lot of discomfort, according to the prescribed guidelines
- Keep the treated area clean, using a bandage if necessary.
A series of follow-up sessions are also scheduled for the months following the transplant. In these sessions, the implantation level is checked to ensure it is appropriate, photos are taken, and reinforcement sessions with PRP are performed (see below).
Visible results in 3 months
The results of the transplant are visible starting from three months. The definitive results appear between 9 and 12 months. After the procedure, many patients usually experience the following stages:
- Month 1: seeing follicles where there was nothing before gives a sensation of instant improvement
- Month 2: the follicles settle, hair falls out, and doubts arise
- Month 3: it starts growing again (this time permanently)
- Months 4-6: the definitive results begin to show
- Months 6-12: The scalp begins to show its final appearance
Reinforcement with PRP sessions
The FUE hair transplant maximizes and accelerates its results when combined with a PRP treatment. We recommend between 1-2 PRP sessions before the transplant, and 2-3 sessions after.
The PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a substance obtained by drawing the patient’s blood, centrifuging it, and adding a platelet activator. This plasma contains nutrients and growth factors that protein-stimulate cells to generate new tissue. PRP has numerous applications in cellular regeneration therapies. When injected into the scalp, the hairs, both grafted and original, sprout from the follicles faster, thicker, and with a better appearance.
PRP sessions can be done once every 21-30 days before and after the implant. Once the treatment is finished, it is advisable to undergo 3-4 sessions per year.
The FUE hair transplant step by step
During the first visit between the patient and the specialist, the case to be treated will be evaluated, the amount of hair to be transplanted will be determined, and an appointment for the day of the procedure will be scheduled.
Once the procedure begins, two areas on the head are marked: one from which the hair will be extracted (usually the nape of the neck), and another where the hair graft will be placed. The extraction area is disinfected, and local anesthesia is applied.
Next, for each follicle, an incision is made with the Punch—an instrument similar to a pen, whose tip makes small cylindrical incisions to section the follicle. Once the follicle is sectioned, it is extracted with tweezers and stored in a petri dish.
Once the required number of follicles has been extracted, we proceed to perform the hair graft in the desired area. At this point, it is important to orient the implanted hairs in the same direction as the original hairs, so that the hair grows with a natural appearance.
Once the hair transplant is finished, the area is disinfected, analgesics and anti-inflammatories are prescribed, the patient is scheduled for the next check-up, and they are sent home. During the 24/48 hours following the procedure, the patient will not be able to wet their scalp or expose it to the sun. Rest in a cool place is recommended to prevent sweating, improve healing, and enhance graft fixation.
Does the FUE hair transplant hurt?
The FUE hair transplant is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort is only felt when applying the injections during the procedure.
Some patients report discomfort and numbness from spending many hours in the same position. However, this is a personal matter as other patients even fall asleep. In any case, during the longest sessions, we take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
Does it leave a scar?
No. The FUE hair transplant makes a micro-incision of 0.8-1 mm in diameter for each grafted follicle. These incisions are tiny, heal within a few days like any superficial wound with a scab, and do not leave a scar.
Will my hair fall out again after the transplant?
The grafted follicles have a 90% survival rate, meaning if we transplant 1,000 follicles, 900 will survive, which at 2-4 hairs per follicle means an amount between 1,800 and 3,600 hairs. Furthermore, the follicles extracted from the donor area are stronger than those from the alopecic areas, so they normally do not fall out.
Is the FUE hair transplant suitable for women?
Yes. The FUE hair transplant can be carried out on both men and women with complete normality.
Where is the transplant performed, at the clinic or in a hospital?
The hair transplant is performed in an external operating room located in Valencia, with appropriate staff and equipment to carry out the procedure with all health guarantees. At Clínica Magnasalud, we conduct the first evaluation consultation and, after the procedure, we carry out the follow-up consultations. We are located in the center of Valencia, at Calle San Vicente Mártir 52, next to Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
Price of the FUE hair transplant
The FUE hair transplant has a price starting from €2,500.
Before the transplant, you must request an appointment for a trichological assessment, which includes:
- Assessment of the patient’s suitability and resolution of doubts about the process
- Trichological examination, medical diagnosis, and hair transplant budget
- If necessary, a pharmacological treatment prior to the procedure will also be prescribed
The price of the trichological assessment is €110, which will be deducted from the final budget.