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FUT Strip Hair Transplant in Grand Rapids

Follicular unit transplantation with Dr. Steven Paul Holt, MD, Michigan’s only ABHRS board-certified hair restoration surgeon. Natural, permanent results, large sessions, and no need to shave your head.

  • 1 dayoutpatient procedure
  • No shaveneeded beforehand
  • Localanesthesia, awake & comfortable
  • ABHRSBoard certified, the only one in Michigan
  • ISHRSMember, International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
  • 4.5 ★26 Google reviews
  • FreeConsultation with Dr. Holt
What is FUT?

What is a FUT strip hair transplant?

Follicular unit transplantation (FUT), also called the strip method, is one of the most established hair transplant techniques, and Dr. Holt performs FUT hair transplants at our Grand Rapids clinic. It remains popular because it produces natural-looking, permanent results.

A thin strip of scalp is removed from the back of the head, the donor area, where hair is naturally resistant to balding. The area is closed in a way that lets hair grow through the scar, leaving a fine linear scar that is normally not visible when hair is kept about ¾ of an inch or longer.

The strip is then divided under high-power stereo microscopes into individual follicular units, the natural groups of one to four hairs, and Dr. Holt places them in the thinning or bald areas. FUT and ARTAS robotic FUE produce similar new hair growth. The difference is how the donor hair is collected. Read our full guide to the strip hair transplant.

Donor area

The donor strip is taken from the back of the scalp

How a FUT hair transplant works

From your first visit to your final result, here is what to expect at Holt Hair Restoration Center.

01

Consultation and hairline design

Dr. Holt examines your scalp, donor hair and goals, explains whether FUT or ARTAS fits you better, and designs a hairline that suits your face.

02

Donor strip removal

On procedure day the donor area is numbed and a thin strip of scalp is removed from the back of the head, then carefully closed.

03

Microscopic graft dissection

Our team divides the strip under high-power stereo microscopes into individual follicular units, ready for placement.

04

Graft placement and recovery

Dr. Holt places each graft at a natural angle. Most patients are back to normal activities in about two weeks, with full results at about a year.

Why FUT

Benefits of a strip hair transplant

FUT is a proven, outpatient procedure that can move a large number of grafts in one session, without shaving your head. It is a strong choice if you wear your hair at least ¾ of an inch long.

  • Natural-looking results
  • Permanent results
  • Outpatient procedure
  • No head shave needed
  • Large sessions possible
  • Grafts prepared under microscopes
  • Nearly painless

FUT strip vs. ARTAS FUE

FUT strip methodARTAS robotic FUE
How grafts are takenA strip of scalp, divided under microscopesOne follicle at a time, by robot
Donor area afterwardOne fine linear scar, hidden by hair ¾ inch or longerTiny dot-like marks that blend into short hair
StitchesYes, removed after 10 to 14 daysNone
ShavingNot neededDonor area is trimmed short
Back to normal activitiesUsually about two weeksUsually within a few days

Dr. Holt performs both, and will recommend the one that fits your hair loss and goals. Learn more about ARTAS robotic hair transplants.

Hair transplant before & after

Real patients of Dr. Holt in Grand Rapids. Every hairline is designed around the person wearing it.

Holt Hair Restoration patient 1 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 1 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 01
Holt Hair Restoration patient 2 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 2 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 02
Holt Hair Restoration patient 3 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 3 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 03
Holt Hair Restoration patient 4 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 4 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 04
Holt Hair Restoration patient 5 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 5 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 05
Holt Hair Restoration patient 6 before treatmentBefore
Holt Hair Restoration patient 6 after hair restorationAfter
Patient 06

Are you a good candidate for FUT?

A strip hair transplant can help men and women with pattern hair loss, a receding hairline or thinning areas, and patients who want to add density to their existing hair. It suits people who keep their hair a little longer and want a large session. If FUT is not the best fit, Dr. Holt will explain other options such as ARTAS robotic FUE or PRP.

  • Pattern hair loss or a receding hairline
  • Healthy donor hair at the back of the scalp
  • Hair worn about ¾ inch or longer
  • Realistic expectations for your result
Patient reviews

Real reviews from real patients

Trevor K.Google review
★★★★★
“I had a great experience at this office! The team of Lindsey, Mary, & Dr. Holt were professional throughout the experience and provided excellent care.”
ElkinGoogle review
★★★★★
“Dr. Holt was incredibly kind, patient, and genuine. … They don’t just restore hair, they help restore how you feel about yourself.”
Tim H.Google review
★★★★★
“Dr. Holt did my hair restoration over 20 years ago. … 20 years later I can honestly state this was one of the best investments I have ever made in my life.”
Richard B.Google review
★★★★★
“Every hair he placed was meticulously angled to match what had been there. I consider him an artist as he worked wonders replicating my cow lick.”
Greg C.Google review
★★★★★
“I chose Dr. Holt to perform my procedure for three primary reasons: training, experience and patient care.”
Ian M.Google review
★★★★★
“Dr Holt is a real straight shooter he really took the time to teach me why I’m losing my hair and came up with a plan to help me start to get it back.”
A.F.Google review
★★★★★
“What truly sold me on Holt Hair Restoration was the honesty and the personal touch he and his staff provided.”
Dan C.Google review
★★★★★
“This was a positive experience in every way. … Dr. Holt is an artist at hair restoration, he really knows how to get the best results for you.”
Joelle F.Google review
★★★★★
“The overall affect for me is life altering! … Dr. Holt and his team at Holt Hair Restoration are amazing, compassionate and professional.”
Charlie P.Google review
★★★★★
“The outcome of my first procedure was excellent and helped me gain back my self confidence which in turn made all areas of my life better.”
M.S.Google review
★★★★★
“I have my hairline back and my density is fuller. … Also the donor area looks like nothing was done to it.”
James L.Google review
★★★★★
“One of my best decisions I ever made was to go to Holt Restoration Center.”

FUT strip hair transplant FAQ

Have a question about a strip hair transplant in Grand Rapids that isn’t answered here? Call or text the office.

Is a strip hair transplant painful?

The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so the transplant itself isn't painful, although it can be a little uncomfortable while the numbing is placed. Any discomfort afterward is temporary, and the donor area can feel tight or tender for a few days.

How soon will I see results?

Transplanted hair grows in natural cycles. Most patients see new growth within three to six months, and the full result takes about twelve months.

What is the recovery time after FUT?

Recovery takes about two weeks. During that time we ask you to rest and avoid strenuous activity, and the stitches are removed after 10 to 14 days. Our hair transplant recovery guide walks you through each stage.

Are there any side effects?

The most common side effects are swelling and bruising around the treated areas. They are normal and usually settle within a few days.

Is the scar permanent?

Yes, FUT leaves one fine linear scar at the back of the head. It is normally not visible when hair is kept about ¾ of an inch or longer. If you prefer very short hair, skin micropigmentation can camouflage the scar.

Who can have a strip hair transplant?

FUT can help anyone with male or female pattern hair loss and enough donor hair, as well as patients who want more density and volume in their existing hair. Dr. Holt will confirm whether it's right for you at your consultation.

How much does a FUT hair transplant cost?

The cost depends on the number of grafts you need. Dr. Holt gives you a clear quote at your complimentary consultation, with no pressure to do more than you need.

Complimentary consultation

Find out if FUT is right for you

Meet Dr. Holt at our Grand Rapids clinic, see real results, and get an honest plan and quote for your hair transplant.

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