The ARTAS robotic hair transplant system automates the follicle extraction phase of FUE using AI-guided imaging and a robotic arm. FDA-cleared in 2011 and now operated by Venus Concept, the system identifies individual follicular units, calculates optimal extraction angles, and punches each graft with a motorized needle. The surgeon then implants the harvested grafts manually into the recipient area.
This guide covers how the ARTAS system works, what it does better than manual extraction, where it falls short, and what to expect if you choose this approach.
How ARTAS Works: Step by Step
Phase 1: Digital Mapping
Before any extraction begins, the ARTAS system creates a high-resolution digital map of your donor area. Cameras on the robotic arm photograph the scalp at multiple angles to:
- Identify individual follicular unit locations
- Measure the angle and direction of each hair as it exits the scalp
- Calculate hair density across the donor zone
- Create a randomized extraction pattern that prevents visible thinning
This mapping phase takes approximately 15-30 minutes and provides data that a human surgeon would estimate visually.
Phase 2: Robotic Extraction
The robotic arm positions a small punch needle (typically 0.9-1.0mm diameter) over each targeted follicular unit and performs the extraction:
- The camera system aligns the punch with the hair's exit angle
- The punch needle scores the skin around the follicular unit
- A second mechanism pulls the graft free from surrounding tissue
- The graft is collected for preparation
The system extracts approximately 500-1,000 grafts per hour, depending on hair characteristics and donor density. A typical session harvests 1,500-2,000 grafts, though this can be extended across two days for larger cases.
Phase 3: Manual Implantation
The ARTAS system does not implant grafts. A trained surgeon or technician creates recipient sites and places each graft by hand. This is the phase where artistic judgment matters most: hairline design, angle of placement, and density distribution are entirely human decisions.
Some clinics pair ARTAS extraction with the ARTAS iX Site Making System, which can create recipient sites robotically. However, most surgeons prefer manual site creation for greater control over the aesthetic result.
ARTAS vs. Manual FUE: Objective Comparison
| Factor | ARTAS Robotic FUE | Manual FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Extraction method | Robotic arm with AI imaging | Handheld motorized or manual punch |
| Graft transection rate | 3-8% reported in studies | 2-10% (highly surgeon-dependent) |
| Max grafts per session | 1,500-2,000 (single day) | Up to 5,000 |
| Compatible hair types | Straight/wavy, dark hair | All hair types |
| Operator fatigue | None (machine consistency) | Increases over long sessions |
| Procedure time | 4-8 hours | 4-10 hours |
| Graft survival rate | 90-95% | 90-95% |
| Recovery | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Cost | 10-30% premium over manual FUE | Standard FUE pricing |
The primary advantage of ARTAS is consistency. A robotic arm does not get tired during hour 6 of extraction, while human hands can. The primary disadvantage is limited versatility: fewer compatible hair types and lower maximum graft counts per session.
What ARTAS Does Well
Extraction consistency: The robotic arm maintains the same punch depth, angle, and speed throughout the procedure. In long manual FUE sessions (6+ hours), surgeon fatigue can increase transection rates in the later hours.
Donor area preservation: The digital mapping system enforces spacing between extraction points, creating a randomized pattern that distributes extraction evenly. This reduces the risk of visible donor area thinning compared to manual extraction without careful planning.
Data and documentation: The system records every extraction, providing a digital log of grafts harvested, transection events, and donor mapping. This data is valuable for planning future sessions.
Reduced human error: For extraction specifically, the robotic system eliminates variability from hand tremor, inconsistent punch angles, and depth estimation errors.
Where ARTAS Falls Short
Hair type limitation: The optical imaging system requires contrast between hair and scalp. Curly, light, red, or gray hair may not be compatible. This excludes a significant portion of potential patients.
Lower graft ceiling: At 1,500-2,000 grafts per day, ARTAS is less efficient than a skilled surgeon performing manual FUE for larger cases. A Norwood 5 patient needing 3,000-4,500 grafts would likely need multiple sessions with ARTAS but could be done in one session manually.
Cost premium: ARTAS typically costs 10-30% more than manual FUE due to the equipment investment. In the USA, where FUE runs $4-$6 per graft, ARTAS may add $1-$2 per graft.
Implantation is still manual: The most aesthetically critical phase (creating recipient sites and placing grafts) is done by the surgeon regardless of extraction method. The robot does not improve the artistic outcome.
Availability: Not all clinics have the ARTAS system. You may need to travel to find a provider, adding logistics and cost.
ARTAS Costs by Region
| Region | Manual FUE/Graft | ARTAS FUE/Graft | 2,000-Graft ARTAS Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $4-$6 | $5-$8 | $10,000-$16,000 |
| UK | $3-$5 | $4-$7 | $8,000-$14,000 |
| Europe | $2.50-$4.50 | $3.50-$6 | $7,000-$12,000 |
ARTAS is less commonly available in lower-cost markets like Turkey and India, where manual FUE dominates due to lower equipment and operating costs.
Is ARTAS Right for You?
ARTAS is a strong choice if:
- You have straight to wavy, dark hair
- You need 1,500-2,500 grafts (the system's sweet spot)
- Consistency of extraction is a priority
- You are comfortable with the cost premium
Manual FUE is likely better if:
- You have curly, light, red, or gray hair
- You need 3,000+ grafts in a single session
- Cost is a major factor
- You have access to a highly experienced FUE surgeon
Patients who research procedures report 60% fewer post-op surprises. Regardless of which technique you choose, knowing your Norwood stage and graft requirements is the essential first step.
Get a free AI hair loss assessment at myhairline.ai/analyze to determine your stage, graft estimate, and which procedure types fit your profile.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a board-certified dermatologist or hair restoration specialist before starting any treatment. Individual results vary based on genetics, health status, and treatment adherence.