Scalp expanded flap combined with IPL hair removal for large area scar on forehead

Abstract

To investigate the therapeutic effect of scalp expanded flap combined with JPL hair removal for large area scar on forehead. From Jul. 2010 to Nov. 2012, 9 cases with large area scar on forehead received treatment of adjacent scalp expanded flap combined with JPL hair removal. One the first stage, the expander was implanted under the scalp near the forehead scar, followed hy expansion process. When the expansion was completed, the expanded flap was transferred to cover the wound after scar excision. 10 days after flap transposition, the forehead hair line was designed and extra hair on flap underwent JPL hair removal. After 3-5 treatments, the hair on flap was almost removed. All the scalp flaps survived completely. JPL hair removal had exact effect. The patients were followed up for 5-11 months. The hair density on the flap decreased hy more than 90%. The flap had a good match with surrounding facial skin in color, texture and thickness. The reconstructed forehead hair line was satisfactory. It is a good option to reconstruct large area scar on forehead with scalp expanded flap comhined with IPL hair removal.