Vertical harvesting in hair transplantation

BACKGROUND. There are several methods for harvesting from donor area, inclu ding punch graft, multiple bladed knife, or single bladed knife excision fo llowed by excision of an ellipse. Vertical harvesting is excellent for avoi ding follicular transections because of complete visualization of the angle of the hair exiting the scalp. Also, the donor area is easier to visualize because of rock-hard tumescence achieved during the totality of procedure. Only an experienced surgeon using a multiple bladed knife would have fewer follicular transections. OBJECTIVE. Optimal yield of the donor area: ie, minimal transection, thus l ess hair follicle transection. METHOD. Vertical harvesting of slivers of hair measuring 0.75-1.85 cm in he ight, and 3-4 millimeters in width using #10 solitary bladed knife and Opti visor (as magnification). RESULT. In our opinion, there is less transection of the follicular bulbs l eading to an increase in yield. CONCLUSION. Patient comfort is maximized because the patient lies on one si de. Another advantage is the reduced role of the technician, therefore requ iring fewer technicians.