Effect of Platelet Rich Plasma versus Saline Solution as a Preservation Solution for Hair Transplantation.

[BACKGROUND] Hair transplantation is the only method available to regrow new hairs; hence, enhancing the results of this procedure using state-of-the-art methods has become mandatory in clinical practice. Recent studies have suggested that significant improvements in hair density and stimulation of hair growth occur when follicular units are pretreated with platelet plasma growth factors before implantation. This study aimed to investigate and compare the outcomes of this procedure using platelet-rich plasma (PRP)-preserved hair grafts and saline-preserved hair grafts.

[METHODS] This is a randomized controlled study. The study included 27 men and 3 women aged 22-51 years. Clinical examination (general and local) and preoperative marking were performed in these patients. The surgical technique involved graft extraction, PRP preparation, and hair implantation. Postsurgical patient satisfaction and clinical improvement were evaluated.

[RESULTS] There were significant differences between the groups in hair uptake and hair thickness after 1 year follow-up, with value <0.05. Using PRP therapy with follicular unit extraction increases the success of follicular unit extraction hair transplantation. All participants in the PRP group had >75% hair regrowth after 6 months. They had more rapid improvements in hair density and skin recovery than those in the non-PRP group.

[CONCLUSION] Preserving hair grafts in PRP before implantation increases the hair density, the graft uptake, and the hair thickness compared with pretreatment preservation of hair grafts in saline.