STEP 2. GRAFT PREPARATION

Once the strip is removed, it has to be dissected down into the individual 1-4 hair follicular unit grafts. This is a vulnerable point in the procedure that risks trauma to the grafts. It must be performed with skill and efficiency.

The first step in graft preparations is to “sliver” the donor tissue under a microscope into thin sections only 1-2 hairs wide. It is similar to cutting a loaf of bread, only on a microscopic level. With the use of a high-powered microscope, the tissue can be converted into these thin slivers with almost no trauma or transection. Next, the slivers are cut down into the individual 1-4 hair follicular unit grafts and trimmed of as much excess tissue as safely possible. This trimming creates the smallest possible graft that then enables us to use the smallest possible incision which ultimately means less trauma and better graft survival. This step is also done under microscopic magnification at SMG.

It is important that the grafts remain hydrated, be kept at the proper temperature, and receive nutrients. At SMG, we use special holding solutions that have antioxidants, buffers and nutrients to help maximize survival. Studies are currently underway to use Platelet Growth Factor (PGP) to help maximize graft survival.