Hairline aesthetics and styling in hair replacement surgery

Punch grafting and flap surgery are proven methods of correcting baldness. Using either method, the location and shape of a new hairline on the frontal and temporal scalp is one of the most important aspects of hair replacement surgery. If the hairline is not aesthetic, the results can be unacceptable or even devastating for the patient and surgeon alike. The principles of planning the frontal and temporal hairline are presented using punch grafts as well as flaps. Postoperative styling of the "new" hair will vary depending upon the method used to transfer the hair (flaps or grafts), the local factors involved (texture, direction, density, tufting, etc.), as well as the patient's preference. The various advantages and disadvantages of styling possibilities with each method are presented. These factors should be discussed with the patient preoperatively.