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Bald Scalp Reduction and Scalp Flap Surgery
These two procedures are no longer performed by Dr. Epstein due to the superiority of follicular unit micrografting. Dr. Epstein does have extensive experience in repairing the scarring from these procedures.
Bald Scalp Reduction:
A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Bald scalp reductions involve the removal of bald scalp from the crown and top of the head. In a single procedure, as much as 5 centimeters (almost 2 inches) in width can be removed, resulting in a rapid reduction in the size of the bald area. Scalp reductions do not treat hair loss in the front of the scalp, and follicular micrografting can be performed simultaneously or subsequently to create a hairline, to further fill in the remaining areas of baldness, and sometimes right along the healed scalp reduction incisions.
Though once quite popular, scalp reductions are rarely performed anymore. Dr. Epstein continues to see patients who have had these procedures, and repairs the scarring and hairline distortion that frequently are seen with these procedures.
Scalp Flap Surgery
Like bald scalp reductions, scalp flap surgery is rarely performed today, due to the superiority of follicular unit grafting. In scalp flap surgery, as many as 10,000 hairs are transplanted in a single procedure. The scalp flap is unique in its ability to create the densest hairline possible, in the shortest period of time. Unlike with hair grafting, the hair in a scalp flap begins to grow immediately. As with all other transplantation techniques, the hair continues to grow for a lifetime.
Dr. Epstein is one of a few select doctors trained in this demanding procedure, which requires extensive training and surgical experience. He no longer performs this procedure, because of the risk of scarring and unnatural appearance, and the superiority of follicular unit grafting. |
