The strip scalp graft.

Hair transplantation for male pattern baldness has been done on many patients by dermatologists and plastic surgeons during the past 20 years. In selected cases, hair transplantation has been successful for adequate replacement of hair in bald areas of the scalp. In most cases, the punch graft technique alone is used. However, in selected cases, especially in younger individuals desiring a dense growth in the frontal area, the strip graft in conjunction with punch grafts can be used. When the strip graft operation is properly executed, the results are very gratifying. My most impressive results have been with those who have had the strip graft operation combined with the punch graft method (Figs. 13 and 14). The strip graft, like the punch graft, has proved to be extremely versatile. It can be transplanted in any conceivable direction and in any area of the scalp. It may be twisted into any desired shape so as to conform to any recipient site. It can also be made short or long and may be cut into smaller strips or even into small square grafts. If careful attention is paid to the simple steps of the operation discussed in this article, a surgeon will usually be rewarded with a good take of the strip graft.