Hair Transplant FAQ

FUE is a hair transplant technique where individual follicular units are extracted from the donor area and implanted into thinning or bald areas.

A follicle produces a hair. A graft is the surgical unit moved during transplant. One graft can contain one to four hairs.

Transplanted follicles are usually taken from donor areas that are more resistant to thinning, so they tend to be long lasting. Your surrounding native hair can still change over time, so a long-term plan matters. Durability and results vary between patients.

The donor area is the region of the scalp, usually the back and sides, where healthy follicles are taken to be transplanted into thinning areas. The quality and density of your donor area help determine what is possible and are assessed during a medical evaluation.

The number of follicles, or grafts, you need depends on the area being treated, your hair loss pattern and your density goals. There is no single number that fits everyone, and a medical evaluation is required to estimate your graft count. Graft count is also the main driver of price.

Transplanted follicles are typically taken from areas that are more resistant to thinning, so they tend to be durable. Your existing native hair can continue to change over time. A long-term plan, which may include supportive treatments such as PRP, is discussed during your evaluation so future loss is considered.

Neither is better for everyone. FUE harvests individual follicular units and leaves tiny dispersed marks, while FUT removes a strip of skin and leaves a single linear scar but can yield many grafts in one session. Many patients are candidates for FUE, and FUT is considered for select cases. Read more on our FUT page.

FUE packages at TJ Hair System start from $3,950 USD. Your final cost depends on how many grafts you need and your treatment plan, confirmed during a medical evaluation. Read the full breakdown in our cost guide.

Because graft range, treatment area, donor density and package inclusions vary.

FUE is performed under local anesthesia, so most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure itself. Mild soreness or tightness afterward is common for a few days and usually manageable with guidance from your medical team. Comfort varies by patient.

FUE usually involves trimming the donor area, and in many cases part or all of the recipient area, so follicles can be placed precisely. Some plans allow more limited trimming. Your medical team confirms what is needed for your case during planning.

The clinic is in Tijuana, approximately 20 to 30 minutes from San Diego depending on traffic and border conditions.

Yes. Many patients fly into San Diego and coordinate pickup.

Many patients are able to travel home a day or two after FUE, following their medical team's guidance. Protect the treated area and keep up with aftercare while traveling. Specific timing depends on your procedure and your case.

Most patients can cross back to the United States shortly after their FUE procedure, while protecting the treated area and following aftercare. Carry your travel documents and allow time at the border. See our cross-border care guide.

A hair transplant in Tijuana can be safe when you choose a qualified medical team, complete a proper evaluation and follow aftercare instructions. As with any procedure there are risks, and outcomes vary by patient. TJ Hair System is a hospital-based, physician-reviewed option. Read the full guide in is a hair transplant in Mexico safe.

Review the medical team and their experience, the technique used, the facility, patient reviews and how follow-up is handled. Ask clearly what the package includes before you book. Our step-by-step guide covers the questions worth asking.

Shock loss is temporary shedding of transplanted hairs after surgery. It is a normal part of the growth cycle.

Most FUE patients return to normal daily activity within a few days, with early healing happening over the first one to two weeks. Full results take longer to appear. Recovery varies by patient and how closely aftercare is followed.

Avoid strenuous exercise, direct sun exposure, alcohol, smoking, and touching or scratching the transplanted area in the early healing window. Restrictions ease over the first one to two weeks. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions your medical team provides.

Many patients return to non-strenuous, desk-based work within a few days of FUE. Physically demanding jobs may require more time before resuming. Your medical team advises a timeline based on your procedure and how your recovery progresses.

Most patients can wear a loose hat after a short waiting period, once it will not rub or press on the grafts. Tight hats should be avoided early on. The exact timing depends on your procedure, so follow your medical team's guidance.

Transplanted hair usually sheds in the first weeks, which is expected. New growth then develops gradually, and many patients see meaningful results around 6 to 12 months, with continued refinement after that. Timelines and results vary by patient.

Yes, if donor hair and facial design allow it.

Usually no. PRP is best for selected early thinning or support cases.

Yes, some women are candidates. Female hair loss often involves diffuse thinning and a range of causes, so an evaluation is especially important to identify what is driving the loss and which options fit. Learn more on our hair transplant for women page.

Start with the assessment or submit photos for evaluation.

An online evaluation lets you send scalp photos and answer a few medical questions from home. A physician reviews your case and prepares realistic options and an estimated price. An in-person evaluation confirms the final plan, because online review has limits.

Send clear, well-lit photos of the front, top, crown and both sides of your scalp through our online evaluation form or WhatsApp. Good lighting and a few angles help the physician review your case accurately and follow up with realistic options.