Treatment Overview
FUT for Alopecia Areata or Spot Balding is a specialized surgical approach that uses the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) method to restore natural hair growth in small, localized bald patches.
This involves removing a thin donor strip from the back or sides of the scalp (areas unaffected by alopecia), isolating healthy hair follicles under a microscope, and transplanting them into the bald spots for long-term, natural regrowth.
Korean clinics use micro-dissection and regenerative therapies to ensure high graft survival and natural density, offering life-changing confidence for individuals affected by patchy hair loss.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of this treatment is to permanently restore hair in regions affected by alopecia areata, traction alopecia, or small bald patches.
Key benefits include:
- Long-lasting, natural-looking regrowth
- Effective even for chronic or recurrent patch baldness
- High graft survival rate with minimal donor impact
- Restores self-esteem and aesthetic balance
- Combines well with PRP or regenerative treatments for stability
Ideal Candidates
FUT for Alopecia Areata or Spot Balding is ideal for:
- Individuals with stable alopecia areata (no active inflammation)
- Patients with small, isolated bald patches
- Those who have healthy donor hair unaffected by autoimmune activity
- Men and women seeking permanent coverage of bald areas
- Patients who have tried medical therapy (like steroids or minoxidil) without success
Possible Risks & Complications
While the procedure is safe, there are some considerations:
- FUT is not recommended during active autoimmune flare-ups
- Temporary swelling or tightness in donor area
- Minor redness or scabbing at recipient site
- Linear donor scar (usually hidden under hair)
Korean surgeons minimize these risks through microscopic extraction, trichophytic closure, and healing enhancement using PRP and growth-factor serums.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korea’s medical centers apply cutting-edge technology to ensure precision, safety, and natural aesthetics in FUT for alopecia treatment.
Key techniques include:
- Microscope-Assisted Graft Dissection for healthy follicle preservation
- Trichophytic Closure for near-invisible donor scars
- 3D Scalp Imaging for accurate graft placement
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) & Stem Cell Therapy to improve graft survival and reduce recurrence
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to stimulate dormant follicles around the treated patch
This combination ensures both restored density and improved scalp health, reducing the risk of further hair loss.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Consultation & Diagnosis:
Dermatological assessment to confirm the stability of alopecia and suitability for surgery.
Step 2 – Donor Strip Harvesting:
A thin strip (1–1.5 cm wide) is removed from a healthy donor zone under local anesthesia.
Step 3 – Graft Preparation:
The strip is dissected into individual follicular units under a microscope to ensure graft integrity.
Step 4 – Implantation:
Grafts are implanted into the affected bald spots following natural direction and density.
Step 5 – PRP & Aftercare:
Regenerative therapy is often applied post-surgery to enhance healing and follicle strength.
The procedure usually takes 3–5 hours, depending on the size of the affected area.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery from FUT for spot baldness is straightforward and comfortable.
Typical recovery timeline:
- Day 1–3: Mild tightness or swelling near donor site
- Day 5–7: Scabs fall off naturally
- Day 10–14: Sutures removed and redness fades
- Month 3–4: Visible regrowth starts
- Month 10–12: Full restoration achieved
After-care tips:
- Avoid washing or touching the area for 48 hours
- Use prescribed shampoo after 3 days
- Avoid direct sunlight and strenuous activity for 10 days
- Follow PRP or medical therapy as prescribed by your surgeon
Results & Longevity
Results from FUT for alopecia patches are permanent, provided the alopecia is inactive.
Hair regrowth becomes visible at 3–4 months, with full restoration at 10–12 months.
Transplanted hair grows naturally, allowing patients to style it as they wish.
For patients with autoimmune alopecia, regular PRP or low-level laser therapy can help prevent recurrence and maintain strong hair growth.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea stands at the forefront of scientific innovation and aesthetic precision in hair restoration, especially for delicate conditions like alopecia areata.
Why patients choose Korea:
- Experienced dermatologists and surgeons specializing in alopecia cases
- Integration of FUT, regenerative therapy, and laser treatment for stability
- Advanced scar-minimizing FUT methods
- High success rate for both men and women
- Comprehensive care for international patients, including translation and after-care programs
Cost Range
The cost of FUT Hair Transplant for Alopecia Areata or Spot Balding in Korea typically ranges from USD 1,800 – 3,500, depending on:
- Size of bald patch (graft count)
- Clinic and surgeon reputation
- Use of PRP or additional scalp treatments
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Offers FUT for alopecia and regenerative PRP for patch prevention
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic – Combines FUT with growth-factor therapy for lasting results
- Moohan Clinic – Specializes in women’s alopecia and temple bald spot correction
- Forhair Korea – Experts in micro-strip FUT with minimal scarring and high graft survival
