The Logic of Follicular Unit Transplantation

April 1999 in “ Dermatologic Clinics ”

Robert Bernstein, William R. Rassman

follicular unit transplantation FUT transection donor hair graft survival single-hair micrografts hair characteristics dissecting microscope Rapid Fire Hair Implanter Carousel hair transplant donor hair graft survival single-hair grafts hair characteristics dissecting microscope Rapid Fire Hair Implanter

Studysummary This article reviews how new observations have revolutionized surgical hair restoration and highlights the logical applications and prior illogical judgments that delayed this advancement, without reporting new results.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

In 1999, the document outlined the evolution of hair transplantation to follicular unit transplantation (FUT), emphasizing the importance of preserving natural follicular units for more efficient and natural-looking results. It highlighted the problems with older methods, such as transection and inefficient use of donor hair, and the benefits of FUT, including smaller wounds and better graft survival. A study within the document showed that intact follicular units had a higher survival rate (113%) compared to single-hair micrografts (82%) at 5 1/2 months post-transplant. The document also discussed strategic planning for patients with active hair loss, the finite nature of donor hair supply, and the impact of hair characteristics on cosmetic outcomes. It argued against combining units to create density, which can look unnatural and deplete donor hair. The importance of considering hair characteristics and long-term planning was emphasized, as well as the advantages of using a dissecting microscope for minimal transection of follicular units. The introduction of the Rapid Fire Hair Implanter Carousel was mentioned as a way to make high-quality FUT more accessible. The number of participants in the study was not mentioned.

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