Hair Restoration

What Is Hair Restoration?

Hair restoration is a medical treatment designed to restore natural hair growth in areas affected by thinning hair or hair loss. At MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute, patients throughout Boston and Massachusetts receive customized hair restoration plans using advanced hair transplant techniques, including FUT and FUE.

Led by Dr. Vladimir Ratushny, a Harvard-trained, board-certified dermatologist, our team helps men and women choose the right approach based on their hair loss pattern, goals, donor hair availability, and desired results.

Schedule a Hair Restoration Consultation
Hair Restoration Guide

Dr. Ratushny’s surgical expertise involves performing both of the following modern techniques in hair restoration surgery. Dr. Ratushny tailors the hair transplantation technique to your hair loss goals.

Why Choose MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute

  • Harvard-Trained Expertise: Dr. Vladimir Ratushny is a board-certified dermatologist with advanced surgical training in hair restoration.
  • Dual Techniques Offered: We provide both FUT (strip) and FUE (individual follicle) methods based on your goals and hair type.
  • Natural Results: Every follicle is placed with precision to match angle, density, and direction for realistic outcomes.
  • Discreet Recovery: Many patients return to normal activity within days, with no hospital stay required.
  • Trusted in Boston: Proudly serving the North Shore, MetroWest, and Greater Boston with exceptional outcomes and patient care.

Hair Loss Conditions We Treat

At MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute, we diagnose and treat a wide range of medical and cosmetic hair loss concerns in both men and women, including:

  • Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia)
  • Female Pattern Hair Loss
  • Hair Thinning from Aging or Genetics
  • Traction Alopecia
  • Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Alopecia)
  • Eyebrow and Beard Hair Loss
  • Previous Hair Transplant Revision
icon FUT

Follicular Unit Transplantation

(FUT/strip excision)

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), sometimes called a strip hair transplant, is a proven hair restoration technique that allows a large number of healthy hair follicles to be transplanted in a single procedure. FUT is often recommended for patients experiencing moderate to advanced hair loss who want maximum graft yield and density.

During the procedure, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny performs the treatment under local anesthesia by removing a thin strip of hair-bearing skin from the permanent donor area at the back of the scalp. The donor site is then carefully closed using advanced surgical techniques designed to minimize the appearance of a linear scar.

The donor strip is meticulously dissected by Dr. Ratushny's experienced team into individual follicular units containing one to four hairs. These naturally occurring follicular groupings are prepared for transplantation to areas affected by thinning or hair loss.

Dr. Ratushny then creates hundreds of microscopic recipient sites throughout the treatment area. Each follicular unit is strategically placed according to the natural angle, direction, density, and growth pattern of existing hair to create natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Benefits of FUT Hair Transplantation

  • Allows transplantation of a large number of grafts in a single session
  • Excellent option for patients with advanced hair loss
  • Can maximize donor hair utilization
  • Produces natural-looking hair growth patterns
  • Typically requires minimal shaving of existing hair
  • Long-lasting, permanent results using your own hair follicles

Considerations Before Choosing FUT

Because FUT involves removing a strip of tissue from the donor area, patients will have a linear scar on the back of the scalp. In most cases, the scar is thin and easily concealed by surrounding hair. However, it may be visible in individuals who prefer very short hairstyles or closely shaved haircuts.

During your consultation, Dr. Ratushny will evaluate your hair loss pattern, donor hair availability, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals to determine whether FUT or FUE is the most appropriate treatment option for your needs.

 

Transcript of Dr. Ratushny: Hi, I’m doctor Ratushny, and I treat patients at MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute in Beverly, Massachusetts.

I’m going to talk about follicular unit transplantation (FUT), which is one of the hair transplant techniques I offer. Follicular unit transplantation (also called strip excision) is really the gold standard of hair transplantation. It’s a technique that moves the greatest amount of hairs from the donor area in the back of the scalp to the recipient area at the hairline and the top of the scalp. Under local anesthesia, I remove a strip of hair from the donor area back here (back of scalp). I then stitch up the area in a way that minimizes a donor scar and allows it to easily be camouflaged with a patient’s overlying hair. Then, my surgical assistants use stereomicroscopes to dissect the donor strip of hairs into individual follicular units.  Then, under local anesthesia, I create hundreds of recipient sites at the hairline and the top of the scalp. I and my surgical technicians gently placed each individual follicular unit using specialized forceps into the recipient areas. And we pay careful attention to the angle, the orientation and the curl of the hairs. The body’s natural clotting factor serves as the glue that keeps the hairs in place. Patients who choose this type of hair transplantation will have a donor scar on the posterior scalp. Typically, this donor scar is very narrow and very well concealed by the overlying hair making it very difficult to find. However, if one chooses to shave the back of their head or have a very closely cropped hair, that donor scar may be visible.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

Follicular Unit Extraction

(FUE/excision method)

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), also known as follicular unit excision, is an advanced hair restoration procedure that transplants individual hair follicles from the donor area to areas affected by thinning or hair loss. FUE is a popular option for patients seeking natural-looking results with minimal visible scarring.

At MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny performs FUE using the advanced WAW FUE System, a precision harvesting technology designed to preserve healthy follicles and optimize graft quality. During the procedure, individual follicular units containing one to four hairs are carefully extracted from the donor area at the back and sides of the scalp.

After administering local anesthesia, Dr. Ratushny creates hundreds of microscopic recipient sites throughout the treatment area, including the frontal hairline, crown, or top of the scalp. Each graft is strategically placed according to the natural angle, direction, density, and curl of the surrounding hair to create seamless, natural-looking growth.

Benefits of FUE Hair Transplantation

  • Minimal visible scarring compared to traditional strip procedures
  • Ideal for patients who wear their hair short or closely cropped
  • Natural-looking hairline design and density restoration
  • Precision harvesting of individual follicular units
  • Long-lasting results using your own permanent hair follicles
  • Suitable for many men and women experiencing hair loss

What Does FUE Scarring Look Like?

Unlike FUT, which creates a linear scar, FUE leaves tiny circular extraction sites that typically heal as small, inconspicuous dots within the donor area. These marks are often difficult to detect, even with shorter hairstyles, making FUE a preferred option for many patients who wish to avoid a visible strip scar.

Dr. Ratushny carefully selects donor follicles in a strategic pattern designed to preserve the natural appearance and density of the donor area. This meticulous approach helps maximize cosmetic results on both the front and back of the scalp.

Is FUE Right for You?

The best hair transplant technique depends on several factors, including your degree of hair loss, donor hair availability, hairstyle preferences, and long-term restoration goals. During your consultation, Dr. Ratushny will evaluate your scalp and recommend whether FUE or FUT is the most appropriate solution for achieving natural, lasting results.

Transcript of Dr. Ratushny: Hi, I’m doctor Ratushny, and I treat patients at MassDerm Hair Transplant Institute in Beverly, Massachusetts.

I’ll talk about the FUE procedure, which is one of the hair transplantation procedures which I offer my patients. FUE stands for follicular unit excision or follicular unit extraction. It’s a procedure in which I remove individual follicular units from the donor area in the back of the scalp, all under local anesthesia. I use the best in class handheld FUE device to do my surgery. Also under local anesthesia, I create hundreds of recipient sites in the recipient area in the frontal hairline or the top of the scalp. Then I and my highly trained team of surgical technicians gently insert each individual follicular unit into the recipient areas and the hairline on top of the scalp. In doing the hair placement, we really pay careful attention to the orientation, the curl, and the angle of each individual follicular unit.

The body’s own clotting factors serves as a glue to keep the hair in place, and there are no stitches throughout this procedure. Patients, who choose to wear their hair shaved or cropped very short, may opt for the FUE procedure over the strip excision procedure to avoid the appearance of a strip scar. Instead of a strip scar. Patients may have very inconspicuous white dots in a donor area. I work very hard to optimize cosmetic results, not only in a recipient area (in the front of the scalp) but also in a donor area (in the back of the scalp). In doing so, I’m very careful in selecting each individual follicular unit in a way that the remaining hairs can camouflage that donor area well.

Am I a Candidate for Hair Restoration?

You may be a good candidate for hair restoration if you have thinning hair, a receding hairline, crown hair loss, or pattern baldness with enough healthy donor hair available for transplantation. During your consultation, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny evaluates your scalp, hair loss pattern, donor density, medical history, and goals to determine whether FUT, FUE, or another treatment approach is right for you.

You May Be a Good Candidate If:

  • You have male or female pattern hair loss.
  • You have a receding hairline, thinning crown, or areas of reduced density.
  • You have healthy donor hair on the back or sides of the scalp.
  • Your hair loss pattern is stable enough for surgical planning.
  • You want natural-looking, long-term hair restoration using your own hair follicles.

A Consultation Is Especially Important If:

  • Your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or rapidly progressing.
  • You have a history of scarring alopecia or scalp inflammation.
  • You have had a previous hair transplant procedure.
  • You are unsure whether FUT or FUE is the better option.
  • You want to understand expected graft count, recovery, and cost.

Not everyone with hair loss needs surgery. In some cases, Dr. Ratushny may recommend monitoring, medical therapy, or treating an underlying scalp condition before considering a hair transplant. The goal is to choose the safest and most effective plan for your long-term results.

Wondering if hair restoration is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ratushny to receive a personalized evaluation and treatment recommendation.

Request Your Consultation

FUE vs FUT

FUE vs. FUT Hair Transplant: Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Both Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) are highly effective hair restoration procedures that use your own permanent hair follicles to restore natural hair growth. The best option depends on your hair loss pattern, hairstyle preferences, donor hair availability, and long-term restoration goals.

Feature FUT (Strip Excision) FUE
Donor Harvesting Method Strip of donor tissue removed Individual follicles extracted
Visible Scarring Thin linear scar Tiny dot-like scars
Best for Short Hairstyles Less ideal Often preferred
Maximum Graft Yield Excellent Very Good
Head Shaving Required Often minimal or unnecessary Usually required in donor area
Common Candidates Patients seeking maximum graft numbers Patients preferring minimal visible scarring

When FUT May Be the Better Choice

  • Women who prefer not to shave the donor area.
  • Men who wear their hair longer and can easily conceal a donor scar.
  • Patients seeking the greatest number of grafts in a single procedure.
  • Individuals with advanced hair loss requiring significant coverage.

When FUE May Be the Better Choice

  • Patients who regularly wear short or closely cropped hairstyles.
  • Individuals who wish to avoid a linear donor scar.
  • Patients seeking a minimally visible donor area after healing.
  • Those whose lifestyle or personal preferences favor follicular unit extraction.

What If You've Had a Previous Hair Transplant?

Patients who have undergone prior hair restoration procedures may be candidates for either FUT or FUE. In many cases, these techniques can be used strategically together to achieve optimal density and coverage. During repeat procedures, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny may recommend scar revision or removal of a previous strip scar when appropriate.

Not sure which procedure is right for you? During your consultation, Dr. Ratushny will evaluate your hair loss pattern, donor hair availability, hairstyle preferences, and long-term goals to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

What to Expect During Your Hair Restoration Journey

Understanding the hair transplant process can help you feel confident about your treatment. From your initial consultation through recovery and final results, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny personally guides each step of your hair restoration journey. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days and begin seeing new hair growth within several months, with full results typically visible within 9–12 months.

  1. Comprehensive Consultation
    Meet with Dr. Ratushny to discuss your goals, evaluate your hair loss pattern, assess donor hair availability, and determine whether FUT or FUE is the most appropriate treatment option.
  2. Personalized Treatment Plan
    A customized surgical plan is developed based on your scalp characteristics, hair density, medical history, and desired outcome.
  3. Procedure Day
    Your hair transplant is performed under local anesthesia using either FUT or FUE techniques. Every graft is strategically placed to create a natural-looking hairline and density pattern.
  4. Recovery and Follow-Up
    Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within 1–2 days. Detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up guidance are provided to support optimal healing.
  5. Hair Growth and Results
    New hair growth typically begins within several months, with continued improvement over time. Most patients achieve their final results approximately 9–12 months after treatment.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Ratushny to discuss your hair restoration goals, learn whether FUT or FUE is right for you, and receive a personalized treatment recommendation.

Request Your Free Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Restoration

Find answers to common questions about FUT and FUE hair transplants, recovery, candidacy, costs, and expected results.

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for a hair transplant?

Most healthy adults experiencing hair thinning, receding hairlines, or pattern baldness may be candidates for hair restoration. During your consultation, Dr. Vladimir Ratushny evaluates your hair loss pattern, donor hair availability, scalp health, and treatment goals to determine whether a hair transplant is right for you.

What's the difference between FUT and FUE?

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) removes a strip of donor tissue from the back of the scalp, while FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) harvests individual hair follicles. FUT may provide a higher graft yield, while FUE typically leaves less visible scarring. Dr. Ratushny offers both procedures and will recommend the best option based on your goals and hair characteristics.

Are hair transplant results permanent?

Yes. Hair follicles used during FUT and FUE procedures are typically taken from areas genetically resistant to hair loss. Once transplanted and fully healed, these follicles generally continue producing hair for many years.

What does recovery look like after a hair transplant?

Most patients return to work and normal non-strenuous activities within 1–2 days. Mild swelling, redness, or scabbing may occur initially. New hair growth often begins within 3–4 months, with final results typically visible within 9–12 months.

Does a hair transplant procedure hurt?

Hair transplant procedures are performed under local anesthesia, which helps keep patients comfortable throughout treatment. Some mild soreness or tightness may occur after the procedure, but most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.

Can women undergo hair restoration surgery?

Yes. Many women experiencing thinning hair or localized hair loss are candidates for hair restoration. Dr. Ratushny evaluates each patient individually to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

How much does hair restoration cost?

Hair transplant costs vary based on the procedure type, graft count, and extent of hair loss being treated. During your consultation, Dr. Ratushny will provide a personalized treatment plan and transparent pricing based on your goals and needs.

Still have questions? Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Vladimir Ratushny to discuss your hair restoration options and receive a personalized treatment recommendation.

Glossary of Hair Transplant Terms

Understanding common hair restoration terminology can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options. Below are definitions of terms frequently discussed during hair transplant consultations.

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)
A hair transplant technique that removes a thin strip of donor tissue from the back of the scalp. Individual follicular units are then separated and transplanted into areas affected by hair loss. FUT is often chosen when a larger number of grafts are needed.
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)
A hair restoration method that removes individual hair follicles directly from the donor area. FUE leaves tiny dot-like scars and is often preferred by patients who wear shorter hairstyles.
Follicular Unit
A naturally occurring group of one to four hairs that grow together from the scalp. Hair transplant procedures are performed using these naturally occurring follicular units.
Graft
A transplanted follicular unit containing one or more hairs. The number of grafts required depends on the extent of hair loss and desired density.
Donor Area
The region of the scalp, typically at the back and sides of the head, where healthy hair follicles are harvested for transplantation.
Recipient Area
The area experiencing thinning or hair loss where transplanted follicles are strategically placed to restore hair growth.
Donor Density
The number of healthy hair follicles available in the donor area. Donor density helps determine how many grafts can be safely harvested during a hair transplant procedure.
Hairline Design
The process of creating a natural-looking frontal hairline that complements a patient's facial features, age, and long-term hair restoration goals.
Miniaturization
A process in which hair follicles gradually shrink over time, producing thinner and shorter hairs. Miniaturization is commonly associated with pattern hair loss.
Shock Loss
Temporary shedding of existing or transplanted hairs following a hair restoration procedure. In most cases, normal hair growth resumes within several months.
Scarring Alopecia
A group of hair loss disorders that permanently damage hair follicles through inflammation and scar formation. In select cases, hair restoration surgery may be considered after the condition is stabilized.