Surgical hair restoration procedures involve removing a section of hair from the back of the head, which is then divided into appropriate densities to be grafted on the top of the head.

Strip Harvest

In a strip harvest, the hair to be transplanted is removed in a crescent-shaped pattern, which begins at the back of one ear, dips down and then up to the back of the opposite ear. A strip harvest is the most commonly used incision pattern for hair transplantation purposes.

Alternative Technique

In some instances, where a procedure has already been completed or there are other scalp-related factors involved, the common strip harvest pattern may not be the best scenario.

Dr. Gallant at Hairfax Atlantic has developed another procedure that greatly improves the healing process for patients who, for varying reasons, are not ideal candidates for a strip harvest.

In these cases, Dr. Gallant removes the donor hair in two half-crescent patterns, leaving a portion of the scalp in the middle untouched. This technique can expedite the healing process, while also reducing associated discomfort.

FOX or FUE Method

This technique involves removing donor hair with a punch. The hair follicles are cored out in circles, 0.5mm-2mm in diameter, removing even the shaft. With the FOX or FUE method, there will be no linear scarring. However, the cost for this type of procedure is approximately 30% higher than a traditional strip harvest because of the additional time involved in harvesting the donor hair. The amount of hair which can be transplanted in one session is also reduced.

Which Technique is Right for me?

This depends on how much donor hair is available to work with and what your desired density outcome is. For small to medium length sessions, meaning there isn’t a large amount of hair to be transplanted, a strip or punch technique may be used. If a large or mega session is required, meaning there will be a considerable amount of hair transplanted, a strip harvest (single incision or two halves) is the only option.

If you have questions about hair restoration surgery and techniques, come in and talk to Larry. You’ll be glad you did.