{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Long-hair follicular unit excision enhances the cosmetic results of hairline restoration: A retrospective study in Chinese recipients.
{Author}: Jin M;Zhang J;Jin Z;Pi L;Diao Y;
{Journal}: J Cosmet Dermatol
{Volume}: 23
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: 2024 Apr 10
{Factor}: 2.189
{DOI}: 10.1111/jocd.16136
{Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Long-hair follicular unit excision (LHF) is gaining popularity, especially for hairline restoration, because it helps avoid hair removal in the donor area and provides better immediate postoperative results.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the postoperative clinical outcomes of LHF for hairline restoration.
METHODS: Data from 248 patients (223 women and 25 men) who underwent hairline restoration with LHF between September 2018 and June 2022 were analyzed, and they were followed up immediately and 9 months postoperatively. The complications and survival rate of long-hair grafts were assessed. Patient postoperative satisfaction was assessed using a 5-Point Likert Scale. The Generic Quality of Life Inventory-74 (GQOLI-74) assessed the quality of the postoperative life.
RESULTS: The planned extraction density was set at 15-25 FU/cm2. The mean number of total extracted hair grafts, transection rate in the extraction area, and extraction time were 1970 ± 124 FU, 3.9 ± 0.2%, and 3.2 ± 0.8 h, respectively. The hairline implantation density was set at 50-70 FU/cm2. The mean number of total transplanted hair grafts was 2031 ± 371 FU; the implant time was 3.8 ± 1.9 h. No serious complications occurred within 7 days postoperatively. The mean graft survival rate was 93.1 ± 1.3% at 9 months postoperatively. All patients were satisfied with the immediate postoperative results, and most were satisfied with the 9-month outcomes (mean overall satisfaction score: 4.7). The scores of physical function, psychological function, social function and material life function after operation were higher than those before operation (p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: Hairline restoration with LHF could enhance the cosmetic outcomes and be widely used in clinical practice.