With so many different types of hair transplant procedures available today, it can be hard to know which one truly fits your goals. From advanced follicle extraction methods to more traditional surgical options, each technique offers its own benefits and considerations.
So, how do you decide what’s best?
How many types of hair transplants are there?
There are several methods, but the most commonly performed hair transplantation techniques include FUT, FUE, and DHI. Each method differs in how hair follicles are harvested and implanted, and the right choice depends on the patient’s goals, level of hair loss, and preferences around healing and recovery time.
In simple terms, follicular unit transplantation (FUT) involves removing a strip of skin from the back of the head, while follicular unit extraction (FUE) individually removes hair follicles from the donor area. DHI, or direct hair implantation, is a newer variation of FUE that uses a specialized implanter pen to implant the grafts more directly into the recipient site.
When narrowing your choices, it often comes down to fue vs fut vs dhi, but newer methods and modifications exist depending on your clinic, hair transplant surgeon, and tools available. A skilled doctor will evaluate your scalp condition, donor site, and desired result to customize the best treatment plan for you.
Some patients may also explore non-surgical alternatives as part of the best hair replacement options. Still, for long-term, natural-looking results, these surgical hair restoration techniques remain the most effective.
To choose the best hair restoration method, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified hair transplant surgeon who can assess your graft needs, harvesting preferences, potential for complications, and how many grafts you’ll need to achieve your goals.
What are the different types of hair transplant techniques?
When it comes to choosing the right procedure, there are many different hair transplant methods—each with its own pros, cons, and ideal candidates. Whether you are researching the best hair transplant for men or looking into a transgender hair transplant, understanding the types of hairlines and how each procedure works can help you make the best decision for your needs.
So, when should you get a hair transplant? You should consider a hair transplant when hair loss becomes noticeable, affects your confidence, and other treatments are no longer effective. Most people get the best results once hair loss has stabilized.
Below, we break down the most well-known and cutting-edge options you can choose from.
FUE
FUE is one of the most commonly performed and minimally invasive methods. Hair follicles are individually extracted from a donor area (typically the back or sides of the scalp) and implanted into thinning or balding areas. This method leaves no linear scar and is ideal for those looking for a discreet procedure.
But, many wonder, do you have to shave your head for a hair transplant? The answer is not always. While shaving may be required for procedures like this one, options like shaveless FUE and DHI allow for transplants without shaving your entire head.
Best hair transplant procedure for natural results with minimal downtime.
We also offer travel reimbursement for clients coming from out of town—contact us today to learn more.
Pros:
- No stitches or linear scar
- Quick recovery
- Great for small or large areas
- Compatible with shaveless FUE hair transplant options for less disruption to your appearance
Cons:
- More time-consuming than other techniques
- Requires skilled technicians for best results
R-FUE (ARTAS Robotic FUE)
This version of FUE uses the ARTAS robotic system to automate graft harvesting with extreme precision. It minimizes human error and speeds up the procedure.
Pros:
- High precision
- Minimizes trauma to the scalp
- Reduces transection rate
Cons:
- Not ideal for all hair types
- Higher cost
- Less effective in African American hair restoration due to the curl pattern of follicles
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
Also known as the strip method, FUT involves removing a strip of scalp from the donor area and dissecting it into grafts.
Pros:
- Can yield a large number of grafts in one session
- Shorter surgery time
- Higher survival rate for grafts
Cons:
- Linear scar on donor site
- Longer recovery time
- Not suitable if you want to keep hair short
Look into FUE vs FUT success rate to see which better suits your goals.
DFI (Direct Follicle Implantation)
DFI is a method similar to DHI but typically uses advanced tools to reduce trauma during follicle placement. It focuses on accurate angling and density.
Pros:
- Reduced follicle damage
- Improved hair direction control
- Faster healing
Cons:
- Requires highly skilled medical staff
- Slightly higher cost
DFT (Direct Follicular Transplant)
DFT is a variant method where follicles are extracted and implanted using special tools designed for faster operation and natural-looking results.
Pros:
- Efficient procedure time
- Natural look due to precise placement
- Minimizes graft out-of-body time
Cons:
- Limited availability
- Not yet widely adopted or studied
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)
DHI uses a Choi implanter pen, allowing hair follicles to be implanted directly without creating recipient site incisions beforehand.
Pros:
- High placement precision
- No scalpel, no stitches
- Ideal for facial hair transplant Chicago services, and eyebrow transplants
Cons:
- Slower and more expensive
- Requires a highly experienced team
Interested in how it compares? Learn more about DHI vs FUE.
Hair Flap Surgery
An older but still sometimes used method, hair flap surgery involves rotating a flap of hair-bearing skin from the side or back of the head to the front.
Pros:
- Can cover large bald areas quickly
- Immediate visible results
Cons:
- High risk of complications
- Scarring and unnatural hair direction
- Rarely used today due to better alternatives
Tissue Expansion
In this technique, tissue expanders are inserted under the scalp near bald areas. Over time, the skin stretches, and new hair-bearing scalp can be used to cover bald spots.
Pros:
- Effective for hairline restoration in scarred or burned areas
- Natural hair growth
Cons:
- Involves multiple surgeries
- Lengthy process
- Risk of infection or discomfort
Scalp Reduction
Scalp reduction involves surgically removing bald scalp and pulling together hair-bearing areas. Mostly used for crown or vertex baldness.
Pros:
- Can be combined with other procedures
- Immediate reduction in bald area
Cons:
- Visible scarring
- Risk of scalp tightness
- Less commonly performed today
Hair Plugs (Outdated)
Hair plugs were one of the earliest forms of transplants, where large clusters of hair follicles were implanted at once. They are no longer used due to their unnatural, “doll-like” appearance.
Pros:
- Pioneered modern transplants
- Some patients still maintain results decades later
Cons:
- Unnatural appearance
- High risk of scarring and clumping
- Largely replaced by modern hair restoration options like FUE and DHI
Hair Cloning
Still in the experimental phase, hair cloning involves duplicating hair-producing cells in a lab and injecting them into balding areas. This is part of the latest hair transplant technology researchers are working on.
Pros:
- Potential to provide unlimited donor hair
- Could revolutionize hair restoration
Cons:
- Not yet available to the public
- Ethical and regulatory concerns
- High costs expected
What is the best hair transplant method? Final points
The best hair transplant technique depends on your hair type, goals, and medical history. For most patients, FUE and DHI offer the most natural-looking results with minimal downtime. FUE is great for those wanting flexibility and faster healing, while DHI provides precise control over angle and density, making it ideal for detailed hairline restoration or facial hair transplants.
If you are considering hair transplant Chicago treatments, our clinic can walk you through your hair restoration options—including advanced tools like robotic-assisted FUE and newer methods tailored to specific hair types. The key is finding a solution that matches your lifestyle, hair loss pattern, and cosmetic goals.
For personalized advice on the right option for you, schedule a consultation today.
FAQs
Which is the safest hair transplant method?
The safest hair transplant method is typically Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). It involves individually harvesting hair follicles, which reduces scarring and speeds up healing. FUE is minimally invasive, has low complication rates, and is widely preferred for its precision, safety, and natural-looking results in qualified hands.