Linda N. Lee - Hair Transplant Surgery and Platelet Rich Plasma: Evidence-Based Essentials

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A practically focused handbook that is rooted in evidence-based literature has been very much needed in the area of hair transplant surgery and ancillary treatments. It is also very hard to accomplish. However, that is exactly what Dr. Lee and her coauthors have done in this new textbook for beginners to advanced surgeons in this rapidly evolving field. Balancing a broad set of procedures with key details, pearls, and pitfalls, the text addresses many core practitioners questions of how to do it and also answers the more important issues of why, when, and for whom. Written in an easy-to-follow style, with photographs and checklists, Dr. Lee has made both simple and intricate procedures accessible and clear.

The handbook proceeds in a logical order. It starts with a review of relevant anatomy and physiology and medical treatments for alopecia. The next part begins with a clear description of indications and contraindications for patient selection in hair transplantation and progresses to surgical basics, key components like designing the hairline, and detailed illustrations of follicular unit techniques. It covers details such as local anesthesia and postoperative instructions, ancillary techniques around the beard and eyebrow, and use of plasma-rich protein, which are critical for the surgeon but often overlooked in similar texts. There are abundant references to guide the reader to deeper investigations into technical nuances or outcomes reviews. The contributing authors include well-known experts from both academic and community-based practices.

In developing this textbook, Dr. Lee and her co-authors have found the right balance between practicality and detail. It lives up to its promise of providing the evidence-based essentials. This textbook is highly recommended to practitioners of all levels, trainees, and clinical staff.

Modern hair transplantation combines innovative techniques with advanced artistry to achieve natural results. The accessibility and prevalence of evidence-based outcomes data has contributed to an increase in the number of patients pursuing hair loss treatment. In recent decades, the treatment algorithm for hair loss has evolved from standard single surgical approach to multiple surgical and non-surgical options, customized to the individual. Hair loss patients and clinicians work together to create a treatment plan which may include medical therapies, minimally invasive procedures such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and surgical hair transplantation. Both follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplant (FUT) techniques offer unique advantages for each patient. Additionally, hairline-lowering surgeries remain a distinct option for patients to effectively restore a more youthful hairline.

Perhaps because patients are so highly motivated to pursue hair loss treatments, the online community is fraught with anecdotal, non-evidence-based treatments that can be costly and ineffective. This textbook is dedicated to reviewing evidence-based treatment options for hair loss to help clinicians accurately identify the optimal treatment plan for each patient. Risks of each treatment and patient selection criteria are discussed to help both clinicians and patients save time and avoid costly treatments that have not demonstrated success.

The chapters in this book have been authored by leading experts in facial plastic surgery and dermatology, each of whom specializes in hair restoration. The content has been specifically collated to concisely review essential topics to help readers understand the physiology of hair loss, the natural cycle of hair regrowth, and medical factors that guide the treatment plan optimal to each patient. Postoperative patient instructions and realistic patient expectations are discussed. Authors share important cautionary tips to avoid rare complications of hair transplant surgery. Surgical pearls are offered to help clinicians achieve the most natural-appearing results for their patients.

I extend sincere thanks to the authors for sharing an overwhelming wealth of expertise in this concise medical textbook. Through collaboration with physicians dedicated to evidence-based, safe, and successful treatment, we will continue to advance the field of hair restoration and help patients improve their quality of life. The body of literature that exists for hair restoration is steadily growing, and I am proud to be a part of this outstanding medical resource which can help train hair restoration surgeons for the future.