Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), also called the strip method, removes a thin strip of scalp from the back of the head, divides it into individual follicular units under magnification, and implants them into thinning or bald areas. It can yield a large number of grafts in a single session, which makes it useful for more advanced hair loss.

The trade-off is a single linear scar across the back of the scalp, usually hidden by hair of moderate length, and a slightly longer recovery than FUE because the donor area is stitched.

What is an FUT hair transplant?

The strip is taken from the band of hair at the back of the scalp that is generally resistant to pattern hair loss. The wound is closed with stitches, which are usually removed after 10 to 14 days. The strip is divided into follicular units, which are implanted into small incisions in the recipient area at the angle and direction of your natural hair, under local anaesthesia.

Who is a good candidate for FUT?

Men and women with more advanced hair loss (for example Norwood 4 to 7) who need a high number of grafts
Patients who need coverage of the front, top and crown
People who keep their hair long enough to cover a linear scar
Those who want to make efficient use of donor hair, or for whom a lower cost per graft matters

FUT is less suitable if you like to wear your hair very short, or if your scalp is tight. Your surgeon will check scalp laxity and donor density before recommending it.

How do FUT and FUE compare?

Harvesting – FUT removes a strip of scalp and divides it into grafts; FUE extracts follicular units one at a time.
Scarring – FUT leaves a single linear scar, usually hidden by hair of moderate length; FUE leaves scattered dot scars, usually hidden unless the hair is shaved very short.
Grafts per session – FUT can yield a higher graft count in one session; FUE yields a moderate to high count.
Suited to – FUT for advanced loss needing many grafts; FUE for most other cases, especially if you keep your hair short.
Recovery – FUT involves stitches for 10 to 14 days and more tenderness in the donor area; FUE usually heals faster, with most people back at desk work within a few days.

Some plans combine both techniques to reach a high graft count without over-harvesting either area. The FUE vs FUT comparison on this site sets the two out side by side.

Recovery after FUT

First week – tightness and tenderness at the back of the head are common, along with swelling and small crusts in the recipient area.
Days 10–14 – the stitches are removed.
Weeks 2–4 – most transplanted hairs shed, which is expected.
Months 3–4 – new growth begins. It is most visible at 6–9 months, with the final result at around 12 months.

What are the risks of FUT?

Side effects are usually mild and temporary: swelling, tightness and numbness around the donor scar, scabbing in the recipient area, folliculitis, and temporary shedding of nearby native hair (shock loss). The linear scar is usually fine, but in some people it stretches or widens, particularly where the scalp is tight. Infection and wound-healing problems are uncommon.

Transplanted hair is generally resistant to pattern hair loss and usually lasts long term, but the native hair around it can continue to thin, so medical treatment may be advised alongside surgery.