Hair follicle extraction combined with an expanded scalp flap for facial organ reconstruction

Abstract

Background: Use of scalp skin for facial organ reconstruction represents a mainstream procedure for organ reconstruction. In most cases, adequate amounts of skin can be obtained by using tissue expanders, but harvesting sufficient scalp tissue in patients with low hairlines is challenging. Hair follicular unit extraction (FUE) is one approach to resolve this problem. With FUE, hair follicles are removed from the scalp skin, which can then be prepared as a donor site to obtain sufficient amounts of hairless skin.

Objectives: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of FUE when combined with an expanded scalp flap for facial organ reconstruction.

Material and methods: Patients with low hairlines requiring facial organ reconstruction were selected for this study. The area of skin extension and hair removal were determined prior to surgery, a process which was performed in three stages. Stage I consisted of hair follicle removal using the FUE technique at the donor site. Stage II involved expander implantation using water injections. In Stage III facial organ reconstruction was completed.

Results: With the use of the FUE technique, hair follicles from the donor scalp were thoroughly removed and the donor scalp tissue was successfully expanded. Postoperatively, no evident scar formation at the reconstruction site or contracture of the expanded flap was observed. All patients were satisfied with the outcome of their reconstruction procedure.

Conclusion: FUE provides a means for hair follicle removal from the donor site and can be employed to achieve a safe and effective procedure for facial reconstruction in patients with low hairlines.

Keywords: Auricular reconstruction; Follicular unit extraction (FUE); Hair follicle; Hair removal; Nasal reconstruction.