An Update on Hair Restoration Therapy

In 2009, Thomas S. Lee and Timothy J. Minton reviewed hair restoration techniques, focusing on follicular unit transplant surgery and follicular unit extraction (FUE). They concluded that while follicular unit strip surgery was the gold standard for hair replacement, FUE was also effective and could see further improvements. Ideal graft placement density was between 20 and 30 follicular units per cm², as higher densities could compromise graft survival. FUE could avoid the potential for a linear donor scar, but had its own disadvantages, including a higher risk of follicle damage. The review also discussed the use of a powered punching device for harvesting follicular units, and medications such as Minoxidil and Finasteride for maintaining and thickening existing hair and regrowing hair follicles. Other medications under investigation included Dutasteride, Ketaconazole, and Latanoprost. Strategies for dealing with complications from previous hair restoration procedures and the treatment of female hair loss were also addressed.