Does FUT Leave a Scar?

You’re probably asking yourself whether FUT leaves a scar when you’re considering a hair transplant. Yes, it does,  is the short answer. But whether or not it’s visible or a problem is contingent upon several factors. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) or strip technique is one of the best hair restoration techniques, but it does leave a linear scar on the donor region.

Read this blog to learn further about FUT and how, at Royal Hair Transplant, we minimize the scar.

What Is FUT Hair Transplant?

FUT is a surgical process for hair replacement: A strip of scalp is removed from the back or sides of the head. Hair follicles from this strip are harvested and transplanted to thinning or balding areas.

Does FUT Leave a Scar?

Yes, FUT creates a linear scar at the rear of the head, where the strip of scalp is removed. The scar is permanent but usually narrow and easily hidden under the existing hair.

How Big is the FUT Scar?

• Length: Dependent on the number of grafts, but typically 1–6 inches.
• Width: Most often very thin, typically only 1–2 mm if normally healed.
• Visibility: Generally not visible with surrounding hair if at least ½ inch long.

What Affects FUT Scar Visibility?

There are a few things that can affect how noticeable or apparent your FUT scar will be:

• Surgeon’s Skill

An experienced, old surgeon can perform detailed closure techniques, which give a cleaner scar.

• Scalp Elasticity

People with a tight scalp may experience more tension on the wound, which can yield a broader scar.

• Healing Process

Aftercare is crucial. Infection, scab picking, or bad healing can make the scar worse.

• Haircut Style

If you have short hair (especially buzz cuts or fades), the scar will be more noticeable.

Can You Camouflage the FUT Scar?

Yes, the scar can usually be hidden if you:

• Let your hair grow longer in the back
• Avoid very short haircuts
• Keep your hair down rather than shaved or closely styled

Some people even have scar revision surgery or scalp micropigmentation (SMP) performed to conceal the line further.

How Does FUT Differ from FUE in Scarring?

If scarring is your primary concern, FUE might be better, but FUT gives more density and coverage for most cases.

Can the FUT Scar Be Removed or Treated?

While the scar is permanent, it can be made less visible:

• Scar Revision Surgery

The previous scar is removed, and the skin is sewn up using better techniques to reduce its bulk.

• Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

A form of cosmetic tattoo that colour-matches the scar to match the remainder of the scalp.

• FUE Into Scar

Some people transplant hair follicles directly into the scar using FUE, making it less visible by growing hair through it.

Is FUT Still Worth It?

Despite the scar, FUT remains a great option for many people, especially if:

• You have severe hair loss
• You want maximum grafts in one session
• You plan to keep your hair long enough to hide the scar
• You’re looking for a cost-effective solution

The outcome is permanent, and the scar becomes less noticeable over time for the majority of individuals.

Who Shouldn’t Have FUT?

FUT is not the best choice if:

• You have very short or shaved hair
• You tend to have bad wound healing or keloid scar formation
• You have had previous scalp operations with an effect on elasticity

In such situations, FUE or non-surgical methods such as PRP or exosome therapy may be more appropriate.

Conclusion

Yes, FUT does leave a scar, but with the right surgeon and proper care, it’s often thin, subtle, and easy to hide. If your goal is to restore hair in a large area with lasting, natural results, FUT is still one of the top options available.

At Royal Hair Transplant Islamabad, our experienced surgeons use the latest trichophytic closure techniques to reduce scarring and ensure maximum satisfaction. Regardless of whether you choose FUT or FUE, we will guide you through every process of your hair transplantation journey.