Understanding Modern Hair Transplant Techniques: A Comparison of FUT, FUE, DHI, and HST (PL-FUT)

by | Jul 7, 2025 | Uncategorized

Hair restoration has evolved significantly, offering individuals facing hair loss a range of surgical options. Choosing the right method depends not only on the visible outcome but also on long-term donor preservation, recovery time, and scientific validation.

This article explores the four leading hair transplant approaches in use today: FUT, FUE, DHI, and HST (also referred to as PL-FUT). A special focus is placed on HST due to its regenerative capability and support in peer-reviewed research.

1. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)

FUT, or strip harvesting, involves surgically removing a strip of scalp from the donor area to isolate hair follicles for implantation.

Strengths:

  • Reliable survival of transplanted follicles.
  • Suited for cases requiring many grafts in one procedure.

Limitations:

  • Leaves a permanent scar along the donor zone.
  • Involves stitches and longer downtime.
  • Post-operative pain is generally higher.
  • May limit hairstyle options due to scarring.

2. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

FUE has become mainstream thanks to its minimally invasive nature. Individual hair follicles are extracted one by one using a small circular punch.

Strengths:

  • No linear scar.
  • Reduced healing time compared to FUT.

Limitations:

  • Follicles are removed permanently, reducing the donor supply.
  • Repeat procedures become difficult.
  • Overharvesting may lead to thinning in the donor area.
  • Lacks regenerative potential.

3. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)

DHI modifies the FUE process by using specialized pens to implant grafts directly, without creating incisions first.

Strengths:

  • Greater control over hair direction and angle.
  • Suitable for dense and refined results.

Limitations:

  • More time-consuming and labor-intensive.
  • Similar donor depletion as FUE.
  • The outcome is dependent on operator expertise.
  • No regeneration of donor follicles.

4. HST (Hair Stem Cell Transplantation) – also called PL-FUT

HST sets itself apart by removing only part of the follicular unit, retaining regenerative stem cells in the donor area. Developed by Dr. Gho, this method has demonstrated follicular regeneration after extraction in published clinical studies.

Strengths:

  • Donor site regeneration: hair regrows where it was extracted.
  • No scarring or need for stitches.
  • Can be repeated over time with minimal donor depletion.
  • Produces dense, natural results.
  • Clinically validated and peer-reviewed.

Limitations:

  • Only practiced in certified medical centers.
  • Requires advanced technical skills.
  • Higher initial cost, but long-term benefits are significant.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice

When considering hair transplantation, it’s crucial to balance immediate results with long-term sustainability. While FUT, FUE, and DHI all serve a role, they permanently reduce your follicular supply.

HST (PL-FUT), by contrast, represents the only method with donor regeneration, making it a strategic option for younger patients, limited donor areas, or those seeking multiple procedures.

Hasci Swiss proudly offers HST as a medically advanced, evidence-backed alternative in the field of hair restoration. To learn more, schedule a consultation through our official channels.

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