The art of repair in surgical hair restoration--part II: the tactics of repair.

[BACKGROUND] As patient awareness of new hair transplantation techniques grows, the repair of improperly planned or poorly executed procedures becomes an increasingly important part of surgical hair restoration.

[OBJECTIVE] Part II of this series is written to serve as a practical guide for surgeons who perform repairs in their daily practices. It focuses on specific repair techniques.

[METHODS] The repairs are performed by excision with reimplantation and/or by camouflage. Follicular unit transplantation is used for the restorative aspects of the procedure.

[RESULTS] Using punch or linear excision techniques allows the surgeon to relocate poorly planted grafts to areas that are more appropriate. The key elements of camouflage include creating a deep zone of follicular units, angling grafts in their natural direction, and using forward and side weighting of grafts to increase the appearance of fullness. In special situations, removal of grafts without reimplantation can be accomplished using lasers or electrolysis.

[CONCLUSION] Meticulous surgical techniques and optimal utilization of a limited hair supply will enable the surgeon to achieve the best possible cosmetic results for patients requiring repairs.