Modern artificial hair implantation: a pilot study of 10 patients

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia is an intriguing problem with significant psychological sequelae. Follicular unit transplantation is unsatisfactory in donor depleted cases and artificial hair implantation has historically been marred by poor quality fiber, untrained operators, and inadequate techniques. This paper aims to establish safety and efficacy of a new artificial copolyamide fiber implantation in androgenetic alopecia. Ten healthy adults with androgenetic alopecia who had failed prior conventional therapies were implanted with copolyamide fiber and were followed for a minimum of 3 years. Implantation consisted of 100 test fibers followed by subsequent sessions of up to 500 fibers every 4-6 weeks to achieve a density of 20-40 fibers per cm(2). Implantation techniques and follow-ups maintained a strict adherence to schedule. A total of 10,000 fibers were implanted with a mean of 1000 fibers per patient. With the exception of one patient, implantation was found to be safe, aesthetically pleasing, and psychologically rewarding to its recipients. Sebum deposition and temporary pitting at entry point of most fibers were universal. Recurrent mild folliculitis occurred in 30% of patients. Facial swelling, cellulitis, and severe scarring were absent. Annual fiber fall rate was 15-20%. Choice of fiber, implantation technique, and mandatory follow-up were deemed to be some of the important contributory factors towards our positive results.