Hair Transplantation Versus Scalp Micropigmentation: A Retrospective Study of Treatment Selection in Persons With Female Pattern Hair Loss

June 2024 in “ Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology ”

Jae Hyun Park, Na Rae Kim, Seung Hyun You

hair transplantation scalp micropigmentation female pattern hair loss follicular unit density hair density mountain ridge sign hair transplant SMP FPHL FUD HD MRS

TLDR Hair transplants are better for severe hair loss, while scalp micropigmentation suits those with denser hair.

This retrospective study compared hair transplant surgery and scalp micropigmentation (SMP) in 40 female patients with female pattern hair loss (FPHL). It found that hair transplant surgery was more suitable for patients with significant hair loss and visible scalp contour, while SMP was better for those with higher hair density and less visible scalp contour. Significant differences were noted in follicular unit density (FUD) and hair density (HD), with SMP showing higher values (66.59 FUD/cm² and 116.08 HD/cm²) compared to the hair transplant group (62.06 FUD/cm² and 96.16 HD/cm²). The "mountain ridge sign" (MRS) was a strong indicator for choosing hair transplant surgery, as 26.1% of hair transplant patients had a positive MRS compared to 0% in the SMP group. The study concluded that treatment choice should be based on these hair metrics for optimal outcomes.

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