Understanding the Hair Transplant in Sharjah requires knowing the Follicular Unit (FU) process—the method behind natural-looking results. Many patients wonder: What exactly is transplanted? How are grafts handled? Is it painful?
In clinical practice, explaining the FU process helps manage expectations about density, recovery, and long-term growth. This guide details each step, patient sensations, realistic timelines, and safety considerations to help you make informed decisions.
What Are Follicular Units?
Why are FUs important?
Follicular Units are naturally occurring clusters of 1–4 hairs along with associated structures like sebaceous glands and tiny muscles. Transplanting in these units preserves the hair’s natural pattern.
Key advantages of using FUs:
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Natural growth direction and density
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Minimizes “pluggy” appearance
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Improves survival rates of grafts
Clinical observation shows that FU-based transplantation produces far more realistic outcomes than older “strip” methods.
How Is the FU Harvesting Process Done?
What happens during extraction?
In FUE or DHI procedures, FUs are harvested individually from the donor area, usually at the back or sides of the scalp:
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Local anesthesia is applied to numb the donor site
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Small punches (0.7–1.0 mm) extract each FU
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Extracted units are stored in a nutrient solution until implantation
Most patients feel only mild pressure and slight vibration during extraction. Discomfort is brief and well-managed with anesthesia.
“I was surprised how little it hurt—just a little tugging feeling.” — Fahad, 37
How Are Follicular Units Implanted?
What does implantation feel like?
After extraction, FUs are implanted into recipient sites:
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In FUE, tiny channels are created first
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In DHI, the implanter pen places grafts directly
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Angle, depth, and direction are carefully adjusted for natural growth
During implantation, patients report sensations of gentle tapping or pressure. Most describe the experience as tolerable and brief.
How Many Grafts Are Usually Transplanted?
Can I get full coverage in one session?
The number of grafts depends on:
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Size of the thinning area
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Donor density
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Hair thickness
Typical adult sessions range from 1,500 to 3,500 FUs. Some larger or advanced cases require a second session to achieve optimal coverage.
What Is the Recovery Timeline?
How long until I see results?
Recovery for FU transplantation generally follows:
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Days 1–3: Mild swelling and tenderness
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Days 4–7: Scabs form around grafts
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Week 2: Redness fades, donor area heals
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Weeks 3–4: Shock loss phase—transplanted hair sheds
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Months 3–4: Early regrowth begins
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Months 6–9: Noticeable density
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Months 9–12: Final results
Patients typically return to work within 3–5 days and resume light activity gradually.
What Does the Donor Area Feel Like?
Post-extraction, the donor site may feel:
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Mild soreness for 2–3 days
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Slight tightness while sleeping
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Occasional tingling or numbness
Tiny dot scars are usually invisible after a few months, especially in medium to long hair.
Who Is a Good Candidate for FU Transplantation?
Can everyone use this method?
FU transplantation is ideal for patients who:
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Have stable hair loss
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Possess sufficient donor density
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Seek natural, age-appropriate hairline restoration
Patients with diffuse or severe thinning may require combined therapy or multiple sessions.
Are There Safety Considerations?
Is FU transplantation safe?
When performed in sterile clinical settings, risks are minimal. Common minor issues include:
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Temporary swelling
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Mild redness
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Folliculitis in rare cases
Pre-procedure assessment and proper aftercare significantly reduce complications.
Patient Experiences
“The FU process felt very precise. I could see the care in every step.” — Rami, 36
“Recovery was smoother than I imagined. By week two, I was already confident going out.” — Adeel, 39
Patients frequently report that understanding each step beforehand reduces anxiety and improves satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does FU transplantation hurt?
Discomfort is mild and primarily during anesthesia. Most patients tolerate the procedure well.
How long before I see hair growth?
Initial regrowth starts around month three. Full density is usually achieved between months nine and twelve.
Can FU transplants be combined with PRP?
Yes, PRP can support healing and strengthen existing hair.
Will donor area scars be visible?
Scars are tiny, dot-like, and usually undetectable after a few months.
How long do results last?
Follicular Unit transplants are permanent, as donor hairs are genetically resistant to thinning.
Why Choose Us
At Tajmeels Clinic, every Hair Transplant in Sharjah uses careful FU handling to maximize graft survival and natural appearance. Individualized planning, precise implantation, and structured aftercare ensure lasting, age-appropriate results.
Final Thoughts
The Follicular Unit process is the foundation of modern hair restoration. By transplanting naturally occurring hair clusters, patients achieve realistic, long-lasting outcomes. Understanding each step—from extraction to regrowth—helps set expectations and enhances overall satisfaction with Hair Transplant in Sharjah.