Are megasessions really safe?

[PLEASE GROW PLEASE]

You must of busted out the gravity bong for this post

[Acrobaz]

Originally posted by PLEASE GROW PLEASE:

http://www.hairtransplantnetwo....asp?CopyID=18&Nav=8

 

It's difficult to add much to Pat's view as stated in the link posted by PGP.

[Dr. Timothy Carman]

Great Thread.

I basically agree with Dr Charles' observations.

In general, the maximum amount of donor grafts available in any one session is dependent upon three factors: 1) The patient's density in the donor area; 2) The length of the strip removed; and 2) The width of the strip removed. Number one, the patients density(average = 100 FU/cm2), is what it is- this factor is beyond the surgeons/clinics control. If this number is 110 or 120 FU/cm2, the total amount of potential grafts available can dramatically increase. Number two, the length of the incision, is limited by the size of ones head and the relative density of the hair on the sides of the head. How far the incision is extended up the sides is an area where one needs to not only observe a patients density at the time of surgery, but also (especially in the younger patient) what the anticipated thinning may be in the future based on the patients genetic(family) history and hair loss pattern to date. This is critical, as, a cavalier approach for the sake of "getting big numbers" may backfire in ten years if the patient thins on the sides, revealing the incision scar. The third factor, the width, is the area where most of the "controversy" comes into play. 1 cm? 1.5 cm? 2.0 cm? 3.0 cm? In my opinion, as a surgeon, this is an area where it is critical to know when "enough is enough"; closing a wound under "too much" tension is where one will get into some serious scarring issues. There is no sense in creating a great lawn of recipient grafts at the expense of a bad scar that needs future attention. It has been shown that pre-operative scalp stretching exercises can increase the laxity of the donor area, affecting the amount available at time of transplant. We recommend that our patients do these routinely prior to surgery.

Of course, as Dr Charles points out, there are other design/planning issues that go into the size of the session- For example, given the age of the patient and his hair loss pattern and family history, it may be advisable to begin with a "smaller" session of 2000 grafts to recreate a more conservative hairline and reinforce the frontal forelock, while buying time to see how the patients ongoing hair loss progresses, so that more prudent use of his grafts can be made in the future. Overall, a point I stress at my consultations is that, IMHO, in plastic/cosmetic surgery "one size does not fit all", and, accordingly, the surgical plan and design should be tailored individually, to address the individual's needs and goals. Ultimately, the goal should be a natural, undetectable transplant that will stand the test of time.

Hope that helps-

[HairDew]

Great thread. Thank you both Dr. Carman and Dr. Charles.

 

Although I think Drs. Hassan and Wong are the only 2 doctors who constantly do 4000-5000+ grafts(almost on a daily basis) with great consistent results.

[PLEASE GROW PLEASE]

Ultimately, the goal should be a natural, undetectable transplant that will stand the test of time.

I agree but the problem is usually when our hair loss is really unbearable 2000 grafts doesnt do much.

Unless you come out in the dark and stay away from the sun and bright lighting.