Follicular Unit Excision-Linear Ellipse (FUE-LE): A New Way to Add the Linear Ellipse Donor Harvesting Method to Any FUE Practice

The research article discusses a novel technique called Follicular Unit Excision-Linear Ellipse (FUE-LE) that combines the Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) and linear ellipse (LE) methods of donor hair harvesting. The FUE method is commonly used in hair restoration practices, while the LE method is often excluded due to reasons such as the linear scar it leaves, lack of patient demand, and lack of trained staff. However, the article argues that both methods have their merits and, with proper patient education and selection, can provide excellent cosmetic results and a good long-term surgical plan. The FUE-LE technique is particularly beneficial for patients with advanced pattern hair loss, as it allows for the harvesting of a larger number of follicular units with the least visible donor deficit. The article suggests that FUE-only clinics could benefit from adding the LE procedure to their practice using the FUE-LE technique.