Philosophy and Technique in Hair Restoration Surgery

The 26-year-old document "Philosophy and Technique in Hair Restoration Surgery" by Dr. Dow B. Stough and Dr. Thomas S. Potter, provided a comprehensive overview of hair restoration surgery. The authors evaluated 25 years of techniques, noting the advent of total micrografting and a decline in scalp reduction procedures. They emphasized creating a natural-looking, sparse, high hairline with normal deep, parieto-temporal recessions. The document also discussed the classification of male pattern baldness, the history of hair restoration surgery, and the philosophy of hair restoration from 1965-1990. It highlighted the need for long-term evaluation of procedures, as short-term results do not necessarily reflect long-term outcomes. The document suggested a conservative approach, such as the creation of a frontal forelock, may provide long-term satisfaction. It also stressed the need for surgeons to manage patient expectations and educate them about the lifelong progression of male pattern baldness. The document warned about complications that can arise from hair restoration surgery, such as unexpected drug reactions, hematoma formation, and infection. It also noted that hair transplantation was rapidly increasing, becoming the most common cosmetic procedure performed on men.