Hair Transplant Guide: FUE, NeoGraft & Restoration Options
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that moves hair follicles from a donor area (typically the back of the head) to balding or thinning areas. Modern FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) techniques achieve 95% graft survival rates with no linear scarring, allowing patients to wear short hairstyles. The average hair transplant requires 1,500-3,000 grafts at $4-8 per graft ($6,000-24,000 total), with visible results appearing at 6-9 months and full results at 12-18 months.
Types of Hair Transplant Procedures
1FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)
FUE is the most advanced hair transplant technique, extracting individual follicular units one at a time using a micro-punch tool (0.8-1.0mm diameter). This leaves tiny dot scars that are virtually invisible, even with very short haircuts.
Key Facts:
- Graft survival rate: 95%+
- Scarring: Minimal dot scars (invisible)
- Recovery: 7-10 days
- Can harvest: 2,000-4,000 grafts per session
- Best for: Most patients, especially those wanting short hairstyles
2NeoGraft (Automated FUE)
NeoGraft is an FDA-cleared automated FUE system that uses pneumatic pressure to extract and implant follicles. It reduces procedure time and minimizes graft handling, potentially improving survival rates.
Key Facts:
- Technology: Automated extraction and implantation
- Speed: 30-50% faster than manual FUE
- Consistency: Reduces human error in extraction
- Best for: Larger sessions, consistent results
3FUT (Strip Method) - Older Technique
FUT removes a strip of scalp from the donor area, which is then dissected into individual grafts. While it allows harvesting more grafts in one session, it leaves a linear scar.
Key Facts:
- Graft survival: 95%+
- Scarring: Linear scar (requires longer hair to cover)
- Best for: Maximum graft needs in single session
- Declining use: Most patients prefer scarless FUE
Comparing Hair Transplant Methods
| Method | Scarring | Recovery | Grafts/Session | Cost/Graft | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUE (Manual) | Minimal dots | 7-10 days | 2,000-3,000 | $5-8 | Natural results, short hair |
| NeoGraft (Auto FUE) | Minimal dots | 7-10 days | 2,500-4,000 | $4-7 | Larger sessions |
| FUT (Strip) | Linear scar | 10-14 days | 3,000-4,000 | $3-5 | Maximum coverage |
Am I a Good Candidate for Hair Transplant?
Ideal hair transplant candidates have:
Sufficient Donor Hair
Good density in the back and sides of the head
Stable Hair Loss
Hair loss pattern has stabilized (typically after age 25-30)
Realistic Expectations
Understanding that results take 12-18 months
Good Health
No conditions that impair healing
Norwood Class 2-5
Mild to moderate hair loss (not complete baldness)
Hair transplants may NOT be suitable for:
- • Complete baldness (Norwood 6-7) due to limited donor hair
- • Active hair loss that hasn't stabilized
- • Diffuse thinning without clear donor zone
- • Certain autoimmune hair loss conditions
What to Expect: Hair Transplant Process
A hair transplant procedure follows these steps:
Consultation
Evaluate hair loss pattern, donor density, and create a customized plan
Pre-Procedure
Stop blood thinners, avoid alcohol, arrive with clean hair
Local Anesthesia
Scalp is numbed; you're awake but feel no pain
Donor Extraction
Follicles harvested from donor area (2-4 hours)
Recipient Site Creation
Tiny incisions made in balding areas following natural hair direction
Graft Placement
Follicles carefully implanted (2-4 hours)
Recovery
Go home same day, sleep elevated for 3-5 nights
Healing
Scabs fall off in 10-14 days, transplanted hair sheds at 2-4 weeks (normal)
Growth
New hair begins growing at 3-4 months
Final Results
Full results visible at 12-18 months
Hair Transplant Results: What to Expect
| Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Swelling, redness, mild discomfort |
| Week 1-2 | Scabs form and fall off |
| Week 2-4 | Transplanted hair sheds (normal - "shock loss") |
| Month 3-4 | New hair begins growing |
| Month 6-9 | Significant visible improvement |
| Month 12-18 | Full final results |
Hair Transplant Cost
Hair transplant costs depend on the number of grafts needed:
FUE (Manual)
$5-8
per graft
NeoGraft
$4-7
per graft
FUT
$3-5
per graft
Typical Total Costs:
Receding Hairline
800-1,500 grafts
$4,000-$12,000
Frontal Third
1,500-2,500 grafts
$7,500-$20,000
Crown/Vertex
1,500-2,500 grafts
$7,500-$20,000
Full Coverage
3,000-5,000+ grafts
$15,000-$40,000+
Contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a hair transplant cost?
Hair transplant costs range from $4,000-$15,000+ depending on the number of grafts needed. FUE costs $4-8 per graft, with most procedures requiring 1,500-3,000 grafts. A receding hairline may need 1,000-1,500 grafts ($4,000-$12,000), while full coverage may need 3,000-5,000 grafts ($15,000-$40,000).
Is a hair transplant permanent?
Yes, transplanted hair is permanent because it comes from the 'permanent zone' at the back of the head, which is genetically resistant to DHT (the hormone causing male pattern baldness). Transplanted follicles maintain this resistance in their new location and continue growing for life.
How many grafts do I need?
Graft requirements depend on the area of hair loss: receding hairline (800-1,500 grafts), frontal third (1,500-2,500 grafts), crown/vertex (1,500-2,500 grafts), and full coverage (3,000-5,000+ grafts, often requiring multiple sessions). A consultation determines your specific needs.
Does a hair transplant hurt?
Hair transplants are performed under local anesthesia, so you feel no pain during the procedure. Most patients describe the anesthesia injection as mild discomfort lasting 10-15 minutes. Post-procedure, patients report minimal pain managed with over-the-counter medication.
What is the recovery time for a hair transplant?
Most patients return to desk work within 2-3 days and normal activities within 7-10 days. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2-3 weeks. Visible redness and scabbing resolves within 10-14 days. Full healing occurs within 4-6 weeks.
What is the success rate of hair transplants?
Modern FUE hair transplants have a 95%+ graft survival rate when performed by experienced surgeons. This means 95% of transplanted follicles successfully establish and grow in their new location. Results are permanent and natural-looking.
What is the difference between FUE and NeoGraft?
FUE is the technique (extracting individual follicles), while NeoGraft is an automated device that performs FUE. NeoGraft uses pneumatic pressure for faster, more consistent extraction. Both achieve similar results; NeoGraft may be faster for larger sessions.
Non-Surgical Hair Restoration Alternatives
For patients not ready for surgery or wanting to complement a transplant:
PRP Hair Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma injections stimulate hair follicles, slowing loss and promoting growth. Often used with transplants for enhanced results.
Learn about PRP Hair TherapyLow-Level Laser Therapy
FDA-cleared devices stimulate cellular activity in hair follicles. Can be used alone or to enhance transplant results.
Medical Management
Finasteride and minoxidil can slow hair loss and potentially regrow hair. Often recommended alongside surgical options.
Hair Transplant Locations
Hair transplant consultations and procedures are available at our clinics:
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Serving Appleton, Oshkosh, Manitowoc, Sheboygan, Fond du Lac
Skokie, Illinois (Chicago Area)
Serving Chicago, Naperville, Evanston, Wilmette, Glenview, Highland Park
Looking for a hair transplant near me? Schedule your free consultation today.
Ready to Restore Your Hair?
Find out if you're a candidate for hair transplant surgery. Schedule your free consultation and get a personalized treatment plan.
Medical Disclaimer: Individual results from hair transplant procedures vary. Candidacy depends on factors including donor hair availability, hair loss pattern, and overall health. Consult with our medical team to determine if hair transplant is right for you.