Hair Grafts in Lower Leg Reconstruction

In 2007, a case report detailed the aesthetic enhancement of lower leg reconstruction using hair follicular unit micrografts and minigrafts in a 28-year-old man who was dissatisfied with the appearance of his leg following a motor vehicle accident that resulted in an open tibia-fibular fracture. Despite successful open reduction, internal fixation, and serratus anterior muscle free tissue transfer with skin grafting, the patient sought further aesthetic improvement. The surgeons transplanted 300 hair micrografts and minigrafts in a single session, which significantly enhanced the aesthetic appearance and contour of the patient's leg. This technique, previously used for facial and scalp reconstruction, proved to be safe, simple, and effective for camouflaging contour and scarring in lower extremity reconstruction, leading to high levels of patient satisfaction. The patient understood the need for periodic trimming of the transplanted hair. The authors concluded that the use of hair grafts can be a valuable addition to enhance aesthetics in lower extremity reconstruction.