Hi Dr. Epstein,
I have had a couple of procedures with you, primarily correction, camouflage, and reduction of large 4/5 mm grafts and mini grafts. You removed parts of the larger grafts using a punch and added 700-800 FUI to the hairline area. It did help, but I still have too many large grafts in the hairline and the frontal part of my skull and want to get as close to natural as possible. I had previous DR's try to camouflage with additional hair also, and I am convinced that hiding the grafts with more hair is just doing exactly that, hiding the problem.
I have been researching graft reduction and angle correction on line and some Dr's (including Dr. Cole in Atlanta) use FUE to remove the appropriate number of follicles out of the offending grafts and redistribute. They claim that they can thin the grafts to a natural density, reduce or correct mis-angles, and also reduces ridging that resulted from the earlier grafts.
Do you do this type of procedure? What are your opinions about it?
Thanks.
Bob- Over the past 2 years, FUE has taken on a very big role in my practice. Its main advantage is utilized for those seeking a hair transplant who wish to not have any donor site linear scar. However, it has improved the results of reparative procedures, allowing for more effective and specific removal of plug reductions and the complete removal of undesirable smaller grafts- just the kind of situation you describe.
As you know, I specialize in these reparative procedures, performing 3 to 5 of these procedures weekly- many of which include the FUE punch reductions.
It would be great to complete the results that we had improved upon earlier - and yes, I definitely agree with your assessment that further graft removal- with the replanting of these grafts possibly combined with some additional grafting- is the key in your case to achieving the natural looks you desire.
Looking forward to receiving your photos.
Posted by Jeffrey S. Epstein, MD, FACS