TLDR Hair restoration has evolved to use follicular units for more natural results, moving away from older methods like large plug grafts and scalp reductions.
Alopecia, a condition that affects a significant percentage of the population, can cause considerable cosmetic deformity. Understanding the pathophysiology and etiology of alopecia is crucial for surgeons interested in hair restoration. Over the past two decades, the field has seen rapid evolution, with a growing emphasis on the use of the follicular unit to achieve natural-looking surgical results. This shift has moved hair restoration away from the historical use of large plug grafts, scalp flaps, and scalp reductions, towards follicular unit grafting and follicular unit extraction. Surgeons practicing these procedures should have a comprehensive understanding of the indications, contraindications, and potential complications associated with them.
11 citations,
May 2017 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Scalp threading with polydioxanone threads is a promising, effective, and safe method for hair regrowth.
64 citations,
March 2017 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” PRP treatment may increase hair density and reduce hair loss, but more research is needed.
39 citations,
September 2011 in “Tissue Engineering Part B-reviews” Hair follicle regeneration in skin grafts may be possible using stem cells and tissue engineering.
112 citations,
October 2005 in “Mayo Clinic Proceedings” Minoxidil and finasteride can slow hair loss and stimulate regrowth, but won't restore all lost hair or reverse complete baldness.
234 citations,
February 2001 in “British Journal of Dermatology” FPHL affects hair density and diameter, causing visible hair loss in older women.
50 citations,
December 1998 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Hair loss is more common in men aged 18-49 and increases with age.
666 citations,
September 1977 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Common baldness, also known as Androgenetic Alopecia, is caused by a combination of genetic factors and hormones called androgens.
September 2012 in “Hair transplant forum international” The document concludes with the creation of a Hair Transplant Foundation after reviewing the early hair transplant techniques and discussions from a forum.
January 2016 in “Springer eBooks” The document concludes that there are various causes and treatments for hair loss, with hair transplantation being a notable option.
12 citations,
February 2007 in “Facial Plastic Surgery” Hair transplantation techniques have improved over 12 years, with follicular unit grafting providing more natural results and potential future advances in automation and genetics.
April 2019 in “Advances in Cosmetic Surgery” The document concludes that ongoing medical therapy is crucial for preventing hair loss, and surgical options can restore hair, with future treatments for hair loss being promising.
2 citations,
October 1997 in “Dermatologic Clinics” The document concludes that advancements in hair restoration surgery have led to more natural results and patient satisfaction, with hope for future improvements in treatment.
