The authors of this article discuss various aspects of ethnic differences in the field of hair restoration. They categorise three ethnic groups: Asian, White and African. In the article anatomic and hair characteristics are introduced. Understanding the follicle shape, calibre of each hair, but also the tensile strength in each group are prerequisites for planning of hair grafting procedures. In the following discussion indications for follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit hair transplantation (FUT) are highlighted. FUE being the technique which is almost exclusively performed in patients of African American or Asian ethnicity. Besides a detailed approach to hairline design and recipient site formation additional information is offered for hair grafting to the beard, the eyebrows and eyelashes, and hairline lowering surgical procedures. The latter being particularly popular in patients of African ethnicity, due to a higher prevalence of genetically observed large foreheads associated with high hairlines and a mobile scalp. The authors placed great emphasis on details, which may be helpful for the experienced surgeon, and surely a must-read to the novice preparing his work in an ethnically diverse patient population.
Ethnic characteristics of the hair
Reviewed by Gregor M Bran
Ethnic considerations in hair restoration surgery.
