For many women, hair is a defining feature of femininity, confidence, and identity. When thinning or hair loss begins, it can feel discouraging, but it does not have to be permanent. At Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery, led by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Pramit Malhotra and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Tiffany Ballard, our team helps women restore fullness and confidence through advanced hair restoration treatments. One of the most effective options available today is FUE, or follicular unit extraction. Here’s how this innovative technique delivers lasting, natural results without the linear scar associated with traditional transplants.
What Is FUE Hair Restoration?
FUE, short for follicular unit extraction, is a refined method of hair transplantation that removes and relocates individual hair follicles from one part of the scalp to another. Unlike the older strip method, which requires removing a section of tissue from the back of the head, FUE uses tiny circular incisions to extract follicles individually. The result is no long incision, no stitches, and no visible scar—just healthy, natural hair growth.
Each follicle is carefully implanted into areas of thinning hair, blending seamlessly with your natural hairline and density. The outcome is thicker, fuller hair that looks completely natural, whether worn up or down.
Why Women Choose FUE Hair Restoration
Many women prefer FUE because it delivers beautiful results with minimal disruption to their daily routines and styling options. The donor areas are discreet, typically located low on the scalp and easily hidden under existing hair. With FUE, you can:
- Avoid long linear scars
- Return to work and daily activities within days
- Style your hair freely—ponytails, parts, and updos included
- Enjoy natural-looking results that continue to improve over time
FUE also allows treatment of thinning areas without needing to shave the entire head, helping women maintain comfort and privacy throughout recovery.
Who Is a Candidate for FUE Hair Restoration?
FUE is best suited for women with moderate to advanced hair thinning and sufficient donor hair on the back or sides of the scalp. Ideal candidates are in good overall health and seeking a lasting solution for improved volume and coverage. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your scalp, review your hair loss history, and determine whether FUE or another treatment, such as PRP therapy, is the right approach for your goals.
Healing and Hair Growth After FUE
Because FUE is minimally invasive, recovery is smooth and downtime is short. Most women return to work or social activities within just a few days. Any swelling or redness is mild and resolves quickly, allowing you to get back to life with minimal interruption.
After the procedure, the transplanted hair follicles enter a brief resting phase before producing new growth. Most patients begin noticing results within three to four months, with continued thickening over the following year. Since the transplanted hair is your own, it will grow naturally and can be cut, colored, and styled however you wish.
Reveal Your Confidence Again
Hair loss does not define you, but confidence does. Discover the difference of FUE hair restoration at Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery — now available in both Ann Arbor and Novi — and restore your natural fullness without visible scarring or lengthy downtime. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Malhotra or Dr. Ballard today to learn how our expertise and patient-centered care can help you feel like yourself again.
