Factors that can influence the price of hair transplant procedures

In 2010, two methods of hair transplantation predominated in hair restoration worldwide:
follicular unit transplantation (FUT) at 77.5 percent and follicular unit extraction
(FUE) at 22 percent, according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, 2011 Practice Census Results report. If you are considering a hair transplant, it's understandable that cost is important but it shouldn't be the only determining factor.

FUT performed three times as often; half as expensive

In FUT procedures, follicular units, or groups, of up to 4 hairs are harvested from the patient's donor site. In FUE procedures, individual follicles are extracted manually or robotically. Individual follicles, or follicular units that have been microscopically dissected into individual follicles, are then inserted into recipient sites in the balding areas of the patient's head. Although FUT is approximately half the price of FUE, the cost of the transplant shouldn't be the only determining factor. FUT is appropriate for some types of hair loss while FUE is recommended for others.

Regarding the cost differential between the two procedures, Bernstein Medical notes that "The fee structure for FUE hair transplant procedures reflects the more detailed and intricate nature of those procedures compared to those performed with a linear harvest." A look at pricing on different hair restoration websites shows that most use the following fee structure and approximate costs:

• Initial evaluation: Up to $550
• Lab work, if necessary: variable
• FUT process: $6 to $8 per graft; $2,500 to $3,000 minimum per session
• FUE process: $12 per graft; $3,000 to $5,500 minimum per session
• Deposit: 30 percent, on average; may be refundable 1 to 3 weeks prior to procedure, depending on the practitioner

Note that some hair restoration centers offer alternative price structures. For example, one center offers FUT procedures at $6 to $8 per graft for the first 2,500 and $2.50 to $4 per graft over 2,500. It also offers discounted standby fees for those with flexible schedules who can respond quickly to scheduling a procedure; prices drop to $5 to $7 per graft for the first 2,500.

Many factors can affect price. Hair transplants should be tailored to personal hair loss circumstances. The number of grafts and sessions required can also affect the overall cost. However, many hair restoration centers now offer reasonable financing, which can help make hair restoration a cost-effective reality for you.