Follicular Unit Transplantation
August 1998
in “
Dermatologic Surgery
”
TLDR Bobby Limmer was crucial in developing a hair transplant method that uses natural hair groupings for a more realistic look.
In 1998, Emanuel Marritt highlighted Bobby Limmer's pivotal role in developing follicular unit transplantation for hair replacement, a technique that involves dissecting hair into natural groupings called "follicular units" using a microscope and transplanting these units to create a more natural appearance. Despite the lack of acknowledgment from others in the field, Marritt credits Limmer with the fundamental change in hair transplantation practices since 1988. Limmer's approach was based on five key principles, including the recognition of follicular units as essential building blocks and the careful handling of these delicate grafts. The document also acknowledges Bill Rassman's contributions, particularly in large graft sessions and temporal hairline advancement, but emphasizes that the core concept originated with Limmer. Additionally, the document by Dr. Bernstein discusses the importance of maintaining the integrity of follicular units during transplantation, notes racial differences in hair density, and addresses the controversy over the recognition of Limmer's work. The conclusion affirms the significance of follicular unit transplantation in hair restoration and acknowledges past errors in the field.