Lateral Slit Hair Restoration: Who is a Good Candidate? By Dr. Raymond Konior on October 24, 2016

A man's head of hairThere are many reasons why our practice is a leader in hair transplant and restoration surgery in Chicago. We believe in patient-centered care, for one. We also believe in using the latest techniques and technology in the field of hair restoration treatment. While follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE) have great improved the results of hair loss treatment, new innovations are still being made to enhance results.

The lateral slit technique for hair restoration surgery is just one such innovation. Let's cover the basics of this surgical approach and discuss who may be an ideal candidate for it.

About Lateral Slit Technique

Also known as perpendicular grafting and coronal grafting, the lateral slit technique is a major new innovation in modern hair restoration. The name refers to the and and direction of the hair graft incisions that are made on the scalp. The incisions are made laterally on the scalp, meaning the small incisions are across the scalp, relatively speaking (e.g., incisions from left to right), at various angles depending on the location along the hairline.

How the Lateral Slit Technique Differs from the Vertical Technique

Traditionally, many hair restoration surgeons relied on a vertical incision method, which is also known as sagittal grafting. The major issue with this method of hair restoration is that transplanted hair tends to stand up in these instances and look quite thin and unnatural.

The Benefits of the Lateral Slit Technique

With lateral slit hair restoration incisions, there are a number of notable benefits. These are as follows:

  • More Natural Angle of Hair – With lateral slit techniques, a surgeon can better angle the follicular units and hair for optimal results.

  • Greater Hair Density – Greater hair density is possible thanks to the lateral slit technique and the way hair can bee angled and layers.

  • Fewer Hair Grafts Necessary – By layering hair grafts and enhancing density, it is possible to achieve great results using less donor hair than before.

  • Difficult to Differentiate Between Natural Hair and Grafts – Lateral slit grafts are more difficult to notice than actual hair.

General Candidacy for Lateral Slit Hair Restoration

Lateral slit hair restoration can be used for all patients in need of hair restoration, so technically anyone who is a candidate for hair transplant surgery is a candidate for lateral slit restoration.

That said, people who are missing a significant amount of hair as a result of pattern balding and other reasons are particularly well-suited for lateral slit restoration. Since the technique maximizes hair density using fewer grafts, this means less stress on the donor site from which the follicular units are taken.

The Results of the Lateral Slit Technique

The results of lateral slit hair restoration are phenomenal, with patients having full and natural-looking heads of hair. The texture and angle of the hair is virtually indistinguishable from a normal head of hair thanks to the careful placement and angling made by the surgeon.

Is Lateral Slit Hair Restoration Right for Me?

The best way to find out if lateral slit hair restoration is right for you is to come in for a consultation at our practice. During your visit, we will be able to discuss various methods of hair restoration and why one may be better for your particular situation.

Learn More About Lateral Slit Hair Restoration

For more information about lateral slit technically hair restoration and how it can help you, be sure to contact an experienced hair restoration specialist today. Our team of hair restoration specialists will work closely with you to develop a smart solution for your hair loss.

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Dr. Raymond J. Konior, MD, FACS

Chicago Hair Institute

Dr. Raymond J. Konior and the team at the Chicago Hair Institute offer world-class treatment backed by over 30 years of expertise in the field of hair restoration. Our doctors are nationally affiliated with professional associations including:

  • International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
  • American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

To learn more or to schedule an appointment at our Chicago, IL, hair restoration clinic, contact us online or call (630) 932-9690.

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