Improving Hair Scar Defects Through the Integration of Autologous Fat Transplantation and Hair Follicle Unit Transplantation.

[OBJECTIVE] To assess the clinical efficacy of combining autologous fat grafting with hair follicle unit transplantation.

[METHODS] The authors conducted a retrospective analysis involving 30 patients at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, between January 2021 and January 2023. Granular fat was harvested from the thigh's posterior aspect using liposuction. The fat was then filtered through cotton pads, fascia was excised, and the fat was implanted into the scar tissue. Postoperatively, beyond the 3-month mark, hair follicle units were harvested from the posterior occipital region of the scalp using an electric device, and these units were transplanted into the scarred alopecic zones. At 1 year postoperatively, the authors evaluated the survival rate of the transplanted hair follicles and the cosmetic outcomes. In addition, patient satisfaction data were compiled.

[RESULTS] Among the 30 patients, 22 males and 8 females with an age range of 18 to 43 years and a mean age of 29 years were included. Complete coverage was achieved in 23 cases, and substantial coverage in 7 cases. High satisfaction was reported by 28 patients, whereas 2 expressed moderate satisfaction.

[CONCLUSION] The integration of autologous fat grafting with hair follicle unit transplantation for the treatment of scar-related alopecia demonstrates significant efficacy and high patient satisfaction, recommending its broader clinical application.