What is shaven FUE hair transplantation? Who is it suitable for? Advantages and limitations you should know.

24 hours ago

12 min read

Shaven FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplantation is considered the traditional standard and the most popular method for hair follicle transplantation today. Although non-shaven FUE techniques have been developed as alternatives, Shaven FUE remains the method recommended by most specialists due to its precise results, high graft survival rate, and cost-effectiveness.

This article will introduce Shaven FUE, covering its working principles, hair transplant procedure, advantages, and limitations, so you can make an informed decision before undergoing hair transplantation.

What is Shaven FUE hair transplantation?

Shaven FUE is a hair follicle transplantation technique that involves extracting hair follicles one at a time (follicular units) using a special small drill (approximately 0.8–1.0 millimeters) to retrieve hair follicles from the nape or sides of the head (donor area) and transplanting them to areas with hair thinning or baldness (recipient area).

The key feature of this technique is cutting the hair short, to about 1–2 millimeters, at the site where the graft will be inserted or transplanted. This allows the doctor to clearly see the direction, depth, and angle of the hair root under a magnifying glass, enabling precise graft extraction without cutting the underlying hair follicle.

What are the different methods of shaving for Shaven FUE?

Hair shaving before FUE hair transplantation can be adjusted as needed, considering the number of grafts to be harvested, hair length, and the transplant area. Generally, hair preparation can be categorized as follows:

1. Full Shave FUE (Shaving a large area of hair)

This procedure involves shaving or trimming the hair in a relatively large donor area to clearly visualize the scalp and hair follicles. It's suitable for individuals who have no restrictions on short haircuts or those planning to harvest grafts over a wide area. In some cases, additional areas for hair transplantation may also be shaved, depending on the treatment plan and suitability of the procedure.

2. Partial Shave FUE (Shaving only a portion of the hair)

This involves shaving only the area where the graft will be saved, leaving other hairs at their original length. The unshaved hair can then be allowed to grow down and help cover the trimmed area.

This option is suitable for those who don't want a drastic change to their hairstyle or want to minimize the visibility of the shaved area after the procedure. The choice will depend on the length and density of the original hair, as well as the number of grafts to be removed.

Note: Shaving the Donor Area and Recipient Area can be planned separately. That is, even if you shave the area used for hair follicle harvesting, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to shave the area for hair transplantation as well.

What are the steps involved in the shaven FUE hair transplant procedure?

Although hair preparation differs from non-shaving hair transplant techniques, the core principles and steps of Shaven FUE remain the same: collecting grafts from the donor area and transplanting them to the desired area. The main steps are as follows:

Step 1: Assess the hair condition and design the hairline.

Before starting a hair transplant program, the doctor will assess the condition of the hair and scalp, both in the areas with thinning hair and in the donor area, to determine the suitability of graft collection.

Factors that need to be evaluated include:

The severity and nature of hair loss or thinning.
Hair density and quality in the donor area.
The size of the area required for planting and the number of grafts expected to be used.
The direction and pattern of original hair growth.
Face shape, forehead proportions, and the appropriateness of the hairline.
Future trends in hair loss.

These assessments are important because hair transplantation involves moving hair follicles from one area to another, so it's necessary to plan the number of grafts to be used based on the available hair supply.

Step 2: Shave or trim the hair in the Donor Area.

Once a treatment plan is finalized, the hair at the back or sides of the head will be shaved or trimmed in the areas where hair roots need to be preserved. The length of the hair after shaving and the extent of the shaved area will vary depending on the treatment plan.

Step 3: Clean and administer local anesthesia.

The doctor will clean the scalp and inject a local anesthetic into both the donor and recipient areas to help minimize pain during the procedure. The patient will remain conscious during the procedure and may feel some touch or pressure from the instruments, but the sensation will vary from person to person.

Step 4: Harvest hair roots using the FUE technique.

The doctor will use a Micro Punch tool to extract hair grafts from the scalp one unit at a time, considering the direction and angle of hair growth to minimize the chance of damaging the hair follicles during harvesting. The key to this process is precision in graft harvesting, as well as appropriately distributing the extracted follicles to prevent the donor area from appearing noticeably thinner.

Step 5: Sort and prepare hair grafts.

After hair follicles have been harvested, the grafts are sorted and inspected for integrity, considering the number of hairs within each graft and their suitability for different transplant locations. For example, grafts with fewer hairs might be used in the front hairline to create a more natural look, while grafts with a higher hair count might be used in the back hairline as appropriate.

Step 6: Open the planting slot and plant the graft.

Once the hair grafts are prepared, the doctor will design and create planting channels in the areas where hair thinning needs to be addressed. The hair grafts are then placed in the planned positions. Determining the direction, angle, and density of the planting are crucial details that affect the overall hairline appearance and the naturalness of the result.

Advantages of Shaven FUE hair transplantation.

Shaven FUE is a popular hair transplant technique due to its many advantages, particularly in terms of site preparation and procedure.

1. The hair roots are clearly visible.

Shaving or trimming the hair makes it easier for the doctor to observe the position, direction, and angle of hair growth, leading to more convenient and systematic graft planning.

2. Convenient for storing hair grafts.

When hair is shorter, the remaining hair interferes less, making it easier to access the areas where hair follicles need to be harvested, especially when grafts need to be collected from multiple locations.

3. It makes managing hair grafts easier.

Clearly presenting the hair collection area simplifies the inspection of already collected grafts and the planning of graft distribution, helping the medical team manage procedures more systematically.

4. No longitudinal scar like with FUT.

Because FUE (Fair Hair Extraction Unit) involves harvesting hair grafts one unit at a time, it's not necessary to cut a strip of scalp and suture the wound closed like with FUT (Fair Hair Removal Cutting). Instead, small scars are scattered throughout the graft harvesting area. However, FUE is not a scar-free technique; small scars can still occur, and the visibility of these scars depends on several factors, including the size of the equipment, the harvesting technique, and the individual's recovery time.

5. You can plan the graft collection according to your needs.

Doctors can plan to select grafts from appropriate areas based on the donor area and the number of grafts required, taking into account the density of the remaining hair after the procedure.

Limitations of Shaven FUE that you should know before deciding.

While the shaved-off hair transplant technique has advantages in terms of site preparation and procedure, it also has some limitations that should be considered before choosing this technique.

1. You have to wait for shaved hair to grow back.

After the procedure, the difference in hair length in the shaved area will remain visible for some time. Those who frequently interact with people or have concerns about their appearance and work may need to plan their appointment accordingly.

2. It may not be suitable for those who want to keep their hair long continuously.

For those with long hair who do not wish to change their hairstyle, shaving the donor area may require a temporary change to their hairstyle. In this case, a partial shave or non-shaven FUE may be considered as appropriate.

3. There is still a chance of small cuts forming.

FUE hair root extraction creates multiple small wounds in the donor area. While there are no long, linear scars like with FUT, if the graft density is too high or unsuitable for the hair condition, it may lead to thinning of the donor area or more visible scarring.

4. This technique may not be suitable for everyone.

Individuals with thin or insufficient hair in the donor area may have limitations in graft collection. Furthermore, the cause and tendency of hair loss must also be considered.

Who is Shaven FUE suitable for?

Hair transplantation via shaving may be a suitable option for individuals with the following hair needs and conditions.

1. People with thinning hair or a receding hairline.

This method is suitable for individuals who have been assessed as having indications for hair transplantation, such as those with thinning hair on the forehead, hairline, or crown of the head, and who have sufficient hair in the donor area for graft collection.

2. Those who have no restrictions on shaving their heads.

Those who can cut their hair short without it significantly impacting their work or daily life may find Shaven FUE more convenient than those who need to maintain long hair at all times.

3. Those with a strong and appropriately dense donor area.

Because hair transplantation requires hair follicles from areas with sufficient density, individuals with suitable hairlines on the back and sides of their heads may have more options for graft collection. However, this must be evaluated by a doctor first.

4. Those who wish to address hair thinning in specific areas with well-defined boundaries.

For example, the hairline, temples, or the center of the head, which allows the doctor to assess the area requiring transplantation and the appropriate number of grafts.

5. Those who wish to choose a technique prioritizing the efficiency of the procedure.

For those who do not have restrictions on shaving their hair, choosing Shaven FUE may facilitate site preparation and graft harvesting. This should be considered in conjunction with the number of grafts and the doctor's treatment plan.

Shaven FUE might not be right for everyone?

While this technique allows for adjustments to shaving styles, there are some groups who should consider alternative options, including:

For those who do not wish to shave or cut their hair and want to maintain their original hairstyle throughout the treatment period.
Individuals with low hair density in the donor area, or a limited number of grafts that can be safely harvested.
Individuals with scattered hair thinning across their scalp may not have clearly defined suitable donor areas.
People who experience hair loss due to certain medical conditions, or who have an unknown cause of hair loss.
Individuals with undiagnosed or uncontrolled scalp health problems or diseases.

However, having certain limitations does not mean that hair transplantation is always impossible. Doctors need to evaluate and consider the most suitable options for each individual.

How does Shaven FUE differ from Non-Shaven FUE and FUT?

Shaven FUE, Non-Shaven FUE, and FUT are all methods used to harvest hair follicles for transplantation into areas with hair thinning, but they differ in the hair preparation methods and the way grafts are extracted from the donor area.

section	Shaven FUE	Non-Shaven FUE	FUT
How to preserve hair roots.	Save them one graph at a time.	Save them one graph at a time.	Cut the scalp into strips.
Shaving	Shave or trim the hair storage area.	Do not shave or trim only the desired strands.	There's no need to shave the entire area.
Wound characteristics	Small sores scattered in spots.	Small sores scattered in spots.	Long scar
Post-treatment image	The shaved area will be clearly visible along the length of the hair.	It can maintain the length of your hair for longer.	The hair on top can help to cover up the scar.
Storage complexity	The workspace is easily visible.	More careful handling is required when collecting them.	It requires cutting and separating the graft from the tissue.

Important Note: Non-Shaven FUE is a graft harvesting method that involves neither shaving nor shaving only the necessary areas, and is technically more complex in some variations. FUT is a distinctly different approach to hair follicle harvesting.

There is no single best technique for everyone, as the choice of hair root harvesting method depends on factors such as the donor area, the number of grafts required, the desired hairstyle, and long-term treatment plans.

How many months after a Shaven FUE hair transplant will I see results?

Hair transplantation does not result in immediate hair growth after the procedure, as the relocated hair follicles need to go through a recovery process and the natural hair growth cycle.

Generally, the transition periods can be divided as follows:

During the first 1–2 weeks, the hair transplant area may have slight scabs and redness, which will gradually improve as the wound healing process progresses.
Within 2–8 weeks, the transplanted hair may begin to fall out. This is a normal process after hair transplantation, as the hair follicles beneath the scalp can continue their growth cycle.
Around the third month, new hair will start to appear, but it may still be fine or grow unevenly.
Around months 6–9, noticeable changes in hair density and coverage begin to be observed.
Around 10–12 months or more, hair will gradually grow and develop greater density, and the overall results will be more clearly assessed.

The timeframes mentioned are only general trends. Actual results depend on the condition of the hair follicles, scalp recovery, and individual factors. Furthermore, existing hair that has not been transplanted may continue to thin due to the underlying cause of hair loss, so a long-term hair care plan should also be considered.

Frequently asked questions about shaven FUE hair transplantation.

Q: For hair transplantation using the shaving method, is it necessary to shave the entire head?

A: It's not always necessary. Generally, the focus is on shaving the donor area, which is where the hair follicles are harvested. Whether or not to shave the transplant area is up to the doctor, depending on the number of grafts, the transplant technique, and the treatment plan.

Q: How long does Shaven FUE hair transplant take?

A: The duration depends on the number of grafts to be harvested and transplanted, the complexity of the case, and the procedure itself. Generally, hair transplantation is a procedure that can take several hours, and in cases requiring a particularly large number of grafts, the doctor may consider dividing the treatment into several sessions or days as appropriate.

Q: Does Shaven FUE leave scars?

A: There is a possibility of small, localized scarring in the graft collection area because a micro-punch tool is used to separate the hair follicles from the scalp. While there won't be a long, linear scar like with FUT, it's not a scar-free technique.

Q: Can women undergo Shaven FUE hair transplantation?

A: It can be done in some cases, such as women with localized hair thinning and a suitable donor area. However, the doctor needs to assess the cause of hair loss and the pattern of hair thinning first, as some women may have diffuse hair thinning throughout their scalp, which affects the suitability of graft collection.

Q: Which is better, Shaven FUE or Non-Shaven FUE?

A: Neither technique is superior to the other in every case. Shaven FUE has the advantage of providing a clear view of the graft site, while Non-Shaven FUE is suitable for those who want to maintain hair length but requires more precision and skill in graft collection. The choice of technique should therefore depend on the hair condition, the number of grafts, and the individual's needs.

Q: After a hair transplant using the shaving method, when can I return to my daily life?

A: Recovery time varies from person to person. Some patients can return to light activities within a few days, but still need to be careful around the transplanted area and follow the doctor's instructions, especially during the first two weeks or so when the grafts require extra care.

How to choose the right hair transplant technique for yourself?

Although Shaven FUE is one of the popular hair transplant techniques, choosing a hair transplant method shouldn't be based solely on the technique's name or convenience. The key to hair transplantation is planning appropriately based on the individual's hair condition and needs. Before deciding, a thorough evaluation by a doctor is crucial, considering factors such as the cause of hair loss, the density and quality of the donor, the area of donor hair, the number of grafts that can be harvested, and designing a hairline that complements the face shape and future hair growth trends.

Because a successful hair transplant isn't just about adding hair to thinning areas, but also about considering the balance of hair throughout the scalp and maintaining sufficient donor area density for the future.

Hair transplantation using the Shaven FUE technique with HAIRSCENSION.

Achieving perfect results in Shaven FUE hair transplantation doesn't depend solely on state-of-the-art equipment, but rather on the expertise and design of the specialist physician. At HAIRSCENSION Clinic, we adhere to the philosophy of "The Arts and Science of Hair Transplantation," combining medical precision with the art of design to create and restore a hairline that looks natural, harmonious, and truly reflects your individuality.

Every step of the treatment is overseen by a world-class certified hair surgeon, accredited by both the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS) and the International Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (IBS), as well as being a member of ISHRS and TSHRS. This ensures the highest standards of safety and accurate, straightforward hair graft assessment.

If you are considering addressing hair thinning or baldness and desire the most stable results from Shaven FUE hair transplantation, you can contact us to schedule an appointment for a hair assessment and personalized facial contouring design with our expert physicians.

Please contact us or schedule an appointment in advance.

Line: @hairscension

Tel: 095-169-6569