The Benefit of Donor-Site Closure in Hair Transplantation
December 1984
in “
The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology
”
TLDR Layered suture closure for hair transplant donor sites results in smaller scars and easier future harvesting but takes more time and may temporarily increase hair shedding.
In 1984, Dr. Hiram Sturm presented a paper on the advantages of a layered suture closure technique for donor-site wounds in hair transplantation. This method involved harvesting 50 to 70 grafts from a small donor area and suturing the wound, resulting in a smaller scar compared to older methods. Sturm's technique also facilitated easier future harvesting, reduced bleeding, and was preferred by patients. However, it required more time for closure and could cause a temporary increase in hair shedding and a potential decrease in hair density in the donor area. Sturm suggested that other surgeons assess and possibly refine his technique.
